We Own The Night

MAXIM EXCLUSIVE - Eva Mendes Interview

We own the night is set in the 80s – did you like the music of that era?
Yeah. I love The Smiths, New Order, and Joy Division. Stuff like that – the classics.

What about the fashion: big hair and shoulder pads?
I think it was the worst ever! It was the dark ages for fashion – crimped hair was just awful! It wasn't a good look for me.

In a number of your films you play the girlfriend of a bad-ass. Do you prefer bad boys or good guys?
I prefer good guys who have a bad streak. You gotta be a good person, but being a little crooked is kind of exciting.

You date a nightclub owner (Phoenix) in the movie. Are you a party girl?
I hate nightclubs. But I like going to friends' houses or having people over – I don’t cook but I’m a great host.

Could you describe your ideal party if you were to throw one next week?
Well, I’d invite my family and all my good friends – Joaquin I’d definitely invite – and we’d all play Taboo or Guitar Hero!

What music would you have playing in the background? Would you be rocking out or playing it smooth with some R&B?
I never really got R&B – I’m a rock n' roll girl. I love all kinds of music really, and I hate people who say that, but I actually do! I love Oasis, The Clash and of course The Beatles – doh! I feel so stupid for even saying it

If you had the choice, who would you go for – Joaquin or Mark?
Are you crazy?! You’re asking me to choose between Joaquin or Mark Wahlberg! I’d have to take Joaquin over the weekend and Mark during the week.

So do you prefer hunky guys or broody guys?
I like broody guys and smart guys – I’m not that smart or intellectual by any means, so I’d need a guy who is really intellectual and cultured. You got to know about art and stuff!

The character you play mentions in one scene that she is a Leo. Does all that astrology stuff work on girls?
That was one of my favourite lines in the movie. To say that to Robert Duvall is just ridiculous but I love that line because it just shows how insecure and scared she was. I know that feeling of having nothing else to say and making yourself sound like a complete ‘arse’ as you guys say.
But as far as that astrology stuff goes, I think it’s just for fun – I read my horoscopes but I don’t take it seriously or live by it.

What’s it like working with the big names of Duvall, Phoenix, and Wahlberg? Was it quite daunting?
It was exciting! I love seeing my name up there with those guys, I really like that.

You've been rated number 7 on the Maxim US Hot 100, who would top your list?
I’m only rated at number seven? That’s terrible. I’m only joking! But Keira Knightley would definitely top my list – I’m totally in love with her. I’m, like, completely obsessed by her; she’s the most delicious thing out there right now.

What do you think is sexy about her?
I think she has such a lovely, unique face – I love people who don’t look like everybody else. She’s such a beauty and so interesting looking.

If Maxim were to buy you a Christmas present, what would you ask for?
Well, I’d love to go on holiday somewhere sunny. But if someone was to buy me a present then they should get me nice, warm socks! I never buy socks – it’s the weirdest thing!

What’s the best advice for men buying underwear for their girlfriends?
Personally I think you should buy what you like, knowing that you guys have bought something for us to wear that you want to see us in. Even if we might not like it, it’s sexy doing it for you.

What do you think is your best attribute?
I’m going to be very corny and say my ability to love – I’m a total lover, and I love everybody. But being less deep; I really like my lips. Deep and shallow attributes there!

We Own The Night is on general release in the UK