Sarah Paulson Says Turn as Linda Tripp is “Greatest Work” Despite Critical Response of “She Sucks”

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As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that Sarah Paulson‘s journey as an actress is reminiscent of an epic RPG (Role-Playing Game). She masterfully navigates various roles and projects, each one adding depth to her character portfolio much like a player levels up their avatar.

On a Saturday evening, Sarah Paulson briefly appeared on Montana Avenue in Santa Monica for a Q&A session after the premiere of her latest Searchlight Pictures suspense film, titled “Hold Your Breath,” at the Beyond Fest.

The Aero Theatre came alive with an engaging discussion, where topics ranged from her role in the Karrie Crouse and Will Joines-directed film (available for streaming Oct. 3 on Hulu) to other significant performances and some of her distinguished co-stars.

Following a thunderous ovation when she revealed her recent Tony win for “Appropriate”, the Emmy-winning actress was questioned about whether she approaches spaces differently depending on the project. “Indeed, I have been doing so since my portrayal of Linda Tripp in [Impeachment: American Crime Story]”, said the longtime Ryan Murphy associate, discussing her role as the controversial figure in the 2021 retelling of the Clinton-Lewinsky sex scandal. “Few enjoyed that program and few liked me in it, except for myself. Critics were harsh, saying I was terrible. But to me, it’s the most remarkable work I’ve ever done – a true masterpiece, as far as I’m concerned.

Paulson has been open about the public’s reaction to Tripp on more than one occasion. During a FYC panel held in June 2022, he expressed that people were reluctant to question their understanding or preconceived notions of Linda, and they didn’t want to delve deeper because she was a character who had betrayed someone. The actions Linda took are indisputable truths, making it difficult for people to change their existing beliefs. This shouldn’t come as a shock, but Paulson found the reality of this situation heartbreaking, even devastating.

For the first time, she collaborated with Julia Crockett, a movement coach, on that role. Since then, Crocket has been a reliable partner. Paulson commended her, stating, “She’s essentially transformed my working approach.” Paulson hired Crockett for the movie ‘Hold Your Breath’ to help portray Margaret, a mother in Oklahoma during the 1930s who is battling both dust storms and a mysterious menace while maintaining her sanity.

Paulson shared some behind-the-scenes info, mentioning that Claire Foy was initially cast as Margaret but had to back out. “I’m not sure about the reasons behind her decision, but I couldn’t be happier it didn’t work out for me,” she joked. Paulson expressed excitement about collaborating with first-time feature directors Crouse and Joines, who have only directed a few short films previously. “The concept of working on a horror movie or psychological thriller that is grounded in reality was captivating to me,” she said. “This movie revolves around a mother’s profound grief after losing her youngest child, and the descent into madness is driven by her fear of being unable to safeguard her children.

Later, she playfully commented, expressing her ability to empathize, saying, “I’m barely keeping my balance from slipping.” She further explained, “My grip on sanity seems fragile, almost as if I’m holding onto it by a thin thread.

On Saturday evening, we had a two-part show. Following “Hold Your Breath”, Beyond Fest (a collaboration between American Cinematheque) displayed Sean Durkin’s 2011 dramatic thriller “Martha Marcy May Marlene”. This movie earned Durkin the best director award at the Sundance Film Festival. In her first major film role, Jessica Paulson performed alongside Hugh Dancy and Elizabeth Olsen.

When asked about her recollections of the encounter, Paulson shared, “I was taken aback by Elizabeth Olsen’s talent and how ordinary she seemed. Despite her siblings being famous actors and fashion designers, I had expected her to be somewhat unapproachable due to her upbringing in Hollywood. However, she turned out to be one of the most wonderful people I’ve ever collaborated with, and this was immediately apparent.” Each time I meet her, she remains exactly the same.

During a question-and-answer session with the audience, a fan asked Paulson if she continues to feel connected to her characters once a project is completed. “Earlier, I made a joke about not having children,” she replied, “but in a less nerdy way, every character I play becomes like a child of mine because I nurture and care for them as if they were real people.” Though she didn’t create the characters herself (as she didn’t write them), once she starts playing or embodying the role, it becomes hers. She treats each character with as much love and attention as she would any other person she cares about. As a result, all these characters seem to orbit around in her mind, which, as I mentioned earlier, makes her somewhat eccentric.

Despite being recognized for her work in intense, dramatic roles and genre films, Paulson expressed interest in taking on a more light-hearted project. “Should anyone ask me to star in a comedy,” she said, “I’d be happy to do so; however, at this moment, no one seems to be extending that invitation.

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2024-09-30 20:55