Actor Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor On The Complexity & Heartbreak Of Female Friendships
Aug 19, 2024
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Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, an acclaimed actress known for her powerful roles in films like Origin and King Richard, shares her journey from rural Mississippi to the big screen. She discusses the profound dynamics of female friendships in her film, The Supremes at Earl's All-You-Can-Eat, emphasizing the need for diverse narratives about women. Ellis-Taylor also reflects on confronting societal challenges through art, including a billboard campaign against racial perceptions and the importance of community support and resilience in overcoming adversity.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor emphasizes the significance of authentic storytelling, notably through her impactful roles in films addressing systemic social issues.
The podcast explores the emotional depth of female friendships, particularly through Ellis-Taylor's character in 'The Supremes,' challenging traditional cinematic narratives.
Deep dives
Oscar-Nominated Roles and Personal Connections
Anjanu Ellis Taylor reflects on her career choices and the importance of selecting roles that resonate with her personal experiences. She gained recognition for her portrayal of Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Isabel Wilkerson in the film 'Origin,' which is grounded in Wilkerson's book exploring systemic social hierarchies. Passionate about the project, Ellis Taylor actively promoted the film, even distributing flyers outside theaters to encourage audiences to engage with its powerful message. Her commitment to authentic storytelling is further embodied in her role in 'The Supremes,' which addresses the complexities of Black women's lives, marking a rebellion against the industry's neglect of such narratives.
The Journey to Acting
Ellis Taylor's path to acting was unconventional, as she initially pursued the profession to support her family rather than from a lifelong ambition. Growing up in rural Mississippi, she discovered her creative side by immersing herself in her grandfather's extensive library, which served as an escape and inspiration. After attending Tougaloo College and being encouraged by a professor to explore acting, she pursued graduate studies at NYU, where her early experiences helped solidify her identity as an actress. Despite her lack of confidence initially, she found her footing in the industry, more so when faced with the necessity of supporting her ill mother.
Activism Through Art and Billboard Campaigns
Ellis Taylor utilizes her platform to address social issues, exemplified by her provocative billboard campaigns in Mississippi and Florida. After returning home to care for her mother, she felt compelled to raise awareness about racial injustices, leading to her iconic billboard featuring the words 'We Shall Overcome' in Confederate flags. The strong reactions to this campaign highlighted the community's divisions and spurred her on to challenge the status quo, showcasing art as a form of activism. Another campaign featuring her personal experience with abortion demonstrated her effort to reclaim public discourse around women's rights and reproductive health.
Friendship Dynamics in 'The Supremes'
In 'The Supremes at Earl's All You Can Eat,' Ellis Taylor plays Odette, the fearless leader among a close-knit group of friends, emphasizing the depth and complexity of female relationships. She expresses excitement about exploring authentic women's dynamics on screen, countering the traditional narratives prevalent in cinema. The film celebrates friendships among women, underscoring their emotional weight and significance, akin to romantic relationships. Ellis Taylor's involvement in this project is part of a broader statement against Hollywood's limited portrayal of Black women's lives, aiming to bring more nuanced stories to the forefront.
In The Supremes at Earl's All-You-Can-Eat, Ellis-Taylor plays the outspoken ringleader among three women whose friendship spans several decades. Her previous films include Origin and King Richard. She talks with Tonya Mosley about growing up in rural Mississippi, buying two billboards, and getting into acting to stave off adulthood.
Also, Maureen Corrigan reviews A Wilder Shore, by Camille Peri.