Brené with Reese Witherspoon & Kerry Washington on Little Fires Everywhere
May 29, 2020
01:08:32
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Reese Witherspoon, a creative powerhouse and storyteller, and Kerry Washington, known for her truth-telling artistry, engage in a heartfelt conversation about 'Little Fires Everywhere.' They dive into the challenges of adapting complex characters and share their insights on the emotional truths of motherhood. The duo reflects on their responsibility to honor diverse narratives and confront generational trauma in parenting. Their discussion emphasizes the beauty of ordinary moments and the power of authentic storytelling in connecting us all.
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Quick takeaways
Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington collaborated to adapt 'Little Fires Everywhere', emphasizing the importance of diverse maternal narratives and identity exploration.
The actresses highlighted how their characters' internal dialogues influenced their performances, showcasing the necessity for authenticity and empathy in storytelling.
They paid tribute to director Lynn Shelton, whose inclusive vision fostered an environment for vulnerability, allowing for deeper character exploration.
Deep dives
Discovery and Adaptation of 'Little Fires Everywhere'
The conversation reveals how Reese Witherspoon discovered 'Little Fires Everywhere' before its publication and recognized its potential for adaptation. She introduced the book to fellow actress Kerry Washington, and together they approached the production team to create a limited series. The adaptation process involved not just a faithful retelling but also an expansion of themes, particularly around motherhood and identity. By optioning the book through Reese's book club, they successfully brought a compelling narrative to the screen that resonated with a wide audience.
Themes of Motherhood and Personal Growth
Both actresses delve into the complex themes of motherhood present in the series, particularly the idea that motherhood can come from diverse sources and experiences. Witherspoon highlights the importance of the book's exploration of different maternal roles, suggesting that individuals can be mothered by many figures in their lives, not just biological parents. Washington emphasizes the struggles of her character, stating that portraying such a guarded figure required a delicate balance between vulnerability and toughness. This struggle mirrors the real-life journey of many mothers, who often face societal pressures while striving for personal fulfillment.
Immersive Character Development and Performance
The actresses share insights into their character preparation, noting how internal dialogue drives their performances. Washington reveals the tension between her character's rigidity and her innate warmth, emphasizing the need to draw audiences in to create empathy. Witherspoon complements this by discussing the collaborative nature of acting, where moments of tension and surprise can lead to more authentic performances. Their ability to respond in character, even in unexpected ways, showcases their dedication to embodying the complexities of their roles.
Impact of Strong Writing on Storytelling
The significance of strong writing is a recurring theme in their discussion, particularly regarding the show's inclusive and thoughtful writing team. The writers tackled sensitive topics such as race, class, and identity, allowing for a rich exploration of how characters navigate these issues. Witherspoon acknowledges the complexity of their characters and the thoughtful conversations behind their development, suggesting that authentic storytelling demands a deeper understanding of varied experiences. Washington mentions the importance of a compassionate writing team, whose careful consideration adds layers of depth to both character and narrative.
Legacy of the Director and Authenticity in Performance
The actresses pay tribute to their director, Lynn Shelton, whose vision and guidance allowed them to explore their characters fully. They reflect on how her inclusive approach created a space where vulnerability and authenticity thrived, enabling them to deliver impactful performances. With growing emotional demands, especially in scenes that required intense family dynamics, they credit Shelton for her ability to create an environment for risky and honest exploration. The discussion highlights how a director's influence can significantly shape the final portrayal of complex characters and themes.
Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington are true creatives and storytellers, working to make timely art that is honest and vulnerable and truth-telling. Here’s Part 2 of my conversation on Little Fires Everywhere. This episode covers how Reese and Kerry worked with a team of other creatives to bring Celeste’s words to life. We talk about the challenges and responsibilities of creating authentic, living, breathing characters with complex internal thoughts. We talk about motherhood and how it connects us, changes us, and changes as it goes. And we talk about creating art that honors ordinary, complicated people from completely different backgrounds, while connecting us all together.