Kermode & Mayo’s Take
Now and Ben: Angela Bassett on Zero Day, Strange Days and The Simpsons
Feb 21, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Angela Bassett, a celebrated actress known for her powerful roles over four decades, discusses her portrayal of President Evelyn Mitchell in the Netflix series Zero Day. She shares insights about the challenges of playing strong female characters and reflects on her inspiring real-life figures. The conversation takes a fun turn as she recalls her experience voicing Michelle Obama on The Simpsons and reunites with Robert De Niro. Bassett also emphasizes the importance of diverse representation in cinema and the evolution of Black stories on screen.
16:56
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Quick takeaways
- Angela Bassett's role as President Evelyn Mitchell in 'Zero Day' reflects her ability to portray powerful women amidst contemporary global challenges.
- The authenticity in 'Zero Day' is heightened by creators' backgrounds in political arenas, enriching the storytelling and character depth.
Deep dives
International Themes in Film
This year's Oscars feature a notable international theme, with diverse narratives reflecting global perspectives. Examples include Adrian Brody's character, who emigrates to America, Ralph Fiennes' role in the Vatican, and Zoe Saldana's story set in Mexico. These international elements highlight the interconnectedness of stories that transcend cultural borders. They also underscore the growing relevance of global narratives in contemporary cinema, making it increasingly easier for audiences worldwide to engage with the themes presented.
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