Meaning: Helena Bonham Carter, the British actress known for her eccentric and diverse roles in film and television, made this statement in an interview in the late 1990s. The quote reflects her frustration with being typecast as a performer in period dramas, despite her desire to be recognized for her work in more contemporary and unconventional projects. At the time, Bonham Carter had gained recognition for her roles in classic literary adaptations such as "A Room with a View," "Howard's End," and "The Wings of the Dove," which had cemented her reputation as a leading actress in costume dramas.

In the quote, she expresses her frustration with being pigeonholed as the go-to actress for period pieces, despite her desire to break away from that stereotype and explore a wider range of roles. Bonham Carter's mention of "modern parts" refers to her desire to take on more contemporary and edgier characters in film and television, as opposed to the traditional roles she had been associated with. The reference to "Mrs. Costume Drama" highlights the way in which she felt labeled and limited by the industry and the public's perception of her as an actress.

Furthermore, Bonham Carter alludes to her involvement in "Fight Club," a 1999 film directed by David Fincher, which represented a departure from her usual period drama roles. In the film, she played the character Marla Singer, a cynical and troubled woman who becomes involved with the film's protagonist, played by Edward Norton. "Fight Club" was a departure from her previous work, as it delved into darker and more contemporary themes, and its release marked a significant shift in her career trajectory.

The statement conveys her hope that her involvement in "Fight Club" would change the public's perception of her and open up new opportunities for her in the industry. She expresses her anticipation that the film would serve as a turning point in her career, allowing her to break free from the confines of being typecast as a performer in period dramas and be recognized for her versatility and range as an actress.

Helena Bonham Carter's career did indeed undergo a transformation following her role in "Fight Club." She went on to take on a diverse range of characters in both mainstream and independent films, showcasing her ability to embody complex and unconventional roles. Her subsequent collaborations with directors such as Tim Burton and her portrayal of Bellatrix Lestrange in the "Harry Potter" film series further demonstrated her willingness to embrace a wide variety of characters and genres.

In conclusion, Helena Bonham Carter's quote reflects her frustration with being labeled and limited by the industry's perception of her as an actress primarily associated with period dramas. Her anticipation of "Fight Club" changing things for her proved to be accurate, as the film marked a pivotal moment in her career, allowing her to break free from the confines of typecasting and pursue a wider range of roles. Her subsequent work has solidified her reputation as a versatile and talented actress, capable of taking on diverse and unconventional characters.