Sterling K. Brown Goes Inside That End-of-the-World Episode of Paradise

[This story contains major spoilers from the seventh episode of Paradise, “The Day.”]

Ever since I started following “Paradise,” I’ve been pondering about the fate of its captivating world. However, nothing could have prepared me for the episode that finally unraveled its end.

From the very first episode of “Paradise,” I’ve been intrigued by its enchanting universe and its eventual downfall. But nothing could have primed me for the episode that brought its story to a close.

The seventh installment of Dan Fogelman’s series “The Day” is titled “Paradise.” This episode, penned by John Hoberg and helmed by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa, delves into the events leading up to the apocalyptic disaster that marked the show’s commencement. In a world post-catastrophic climate change, a group of 25,000 individuals, including Brown’s character Xavier Collins, a Secret Service agent, were miraculously spared. They now reside in a mountainous Colorado bunker, which was constructed by a foresightful billionaire (Julianne Nicholson) who anticipated the end of the world.

The series titled ‘The Day’ delves into confidential discussions within the White House as President Cal Bradford (James Marsden) grappled with deciding what to disclose to the nation amid an extraordinary emergency. Their preparations were underway, but events unfolded more swiftly than any of their most pessimistic predictions when a super volcano exploded in the Arctic, causing the ice shelf to break and instantly flooding trillions of gallons of water. This sudden event triggered a tsunami moving at 600 miles per hour with waves reaching up to 300 feet. The coastal cities were hit first, leaving the world stunned as live broadcasts and overhead cameras captured global destruction. The president and his chosen survivors find themselves running out of time to flee, while the rest of the world braces for more catastrophes.

In this episode, I discovered more about Teri (Enuka Okuma), Xavier’s wife and mother of our beloved children, who was left behind when we last saw them. The story unfolds to reveal why Teri wasn’t able to reach the bunker, a heart-wrenching encounter between Sterling and Marsden that explains their strained relationship since Cal’s murder in present day. Unfortunately, there was no time for warning, leaving Teri in Atlanta. Xavier harbored resentment towards Cal due to this incident. As the episode concludes, we are transported back to the present, where Sinatra (Nicholson) shares a shocking revelation with Xavier: his wife is still alive, as was hinted in the previous episode. However, now, the creator of the bunker has taken our dear daughter Aliyah Mastin captive amidst his rebellion. Sinatra demands that Xavier quells the chaos he ignited and finds Cal’s killer to ensure a reunion with the women in his life.

Brown had a conversation with THR about the episode – an impressive acting performance from both the star and executive producer of the series – on the day the show was renewed for a second season, making the following discussion ideal as we prepare for a suspenseful season finale that promises more intrigue to come.

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First of all, congrats on season two.

There will be a season two, I couldn’t be happier about that.

I had a conversation with Dan Fogelman at the outset of the season. Following the conclusion of This Is Us, both of you were questioned about a political spinoff for your character, Randall Pearson, given that his narrative arc ended with White House aspirations. I inquired if this was the origin of Paradise, but Dan clarified that the concept of Paradise has been under development for quite some time. When you initially received this proposal from Dan, did thoughts about Randal cross your mind?

He didn’t reject the idea since it seemed plausible to him, as he proposed a creative approach for implementing the [Randall idea]. His concept was, “Perhaps I could collaborate with [Aaron Sorkin] and if The West Wing is rebooted, we could incorporate Randall’s character. It would transition from one storyline to another.” I thought that was a bold move! Dan always takes big risks, so kudos to his audaciousness. However, when he presented Paradise, I realized it wasn’t related to the initial pitch since he had shared that with me earlier.

Initially, Dan expressed his apprehension about presenting his idea to you, as he wasn’t certain about your interest in returning to television. However, just a few hours later, you had already shown interest in the pitch. What was it that drew you into playing the character of Xavier?
Dan confessed that he was hesitant to approach you with his pitch due to uncertainty about your readiness to get back into TV. Yet, within just a few hours, you had already shown interest in his proposal. What specifically attracted you to the role of Xavier?

To be completely open, he presented an intriguing idea to me shortly after watching “This Is Us”, which was truly impressive. It had a fantastic concept. He consistently brings innovative ideas to the table. However, I’ve just completed six years of working on “This Is Us” and I yearned for some time to delve into potential opportunities in film, theater, or other areas. I simply sought fresh possibilities. He responded graciously, saying, “I totally get it, no hard feelings.

A few years pass, he reaches out again with a proposition, “I’ve been working on something and as I progressed, I felt like it was meant for you. Would you mind taking a look at it? I’d appreciate your feedback.” I agreed, having read 108 of his scripts before, all of which were quite impressive. Upon reading this one, it struck me instantly – it was clear that this was the next big project. So much so that I suggested to my managers and agents, “Let’s put everything else on hold, this is what we should focus on next.

I had no hesitation since I acknowledge Dan’s extraordinary abilities as a writer who can pen anything. The initial attraction for me was his work on “Crazy, Stupid Love”. Then you come to understand that he penned “Tangled”, “Cars” and the ABC series called “Galavant”. This fellow is truly gifted. Additionally, the appeal of “Paradise” lay in knowing that we wouldn’t be attempting to replicate what has already been done, but instead would strive to create something fresh and thrilling, just as it was exciting to collaborate with him again, given that it wasn’t like “This Is Us”.

In addition to your role as executive producer on Paradise, I’m aware that Dan and the writers conducted extensive research for plotting the creation of a new civilization after global and nuclear fallout. Can you share some insights about your involvement in this research process?

The writers discuss and brainstorm apocalyptic situations with others, which I’m not directly involved in, but I do join their discussions afterward. They share their findings and plans for creating this world, and it’s fascinating how they portray the tsunami and melting ice caps so realistically that it seems plausible, rather than like a movie such as “The Day After Tomorrow.” This lends an air of authenticity to the drama, but it also raises questions about whether we are doing enough to prevent our children from experiencing catastrophic flooding in the future. I’m not sure if we’re taking sufficient action to ensure their safety!

Totally, it’s eerie. So are you building a bunker after all of this?

Tidbit: There’s a bunker hidden beneath our house, given its mid-century modern design. It’s seldom visited or utilized, but it adds a unique charm, making my spouse particularly content.

Dan’s dedication to thorough research during productions, including that of the show “This Is Us,” never fails to impress me. He delved into topics like adoption and transracial adoption, consulted experts when exploring Jack and Kevin’s struggle with alcoholism, and emphasized the significance of silk and Black women’s haircare for Beth’s character’s hairstyle. Beneath his humorous and friendly demeanor lies a true nerd. When he decides to tackle a project, he is knowledgeable about what he knows and aware of what he doesn’t, ensuring he brings in experts when necessary to ensure accuracy.

I had a chat with writer and executive producer John Hoberg regarding this particular episode. He mentioned that the White House sequences were shot in various locations, making it difficult to maintain the episode’s fast-paced momentum. Additionally, fewer cuts were used during filming to avoid disrupting the continuous flow of the storyline from minute to minute. So, what was the experience like filming this episode?

The experience was fantastic! It’s the kind of moment that makes you excited about being in this industry, especially when you’re a young actor dreaming about acting; it’s high-stakes and fast-paced. It was relatively simple because it was thrilling. Whenever we were block shooting something — as we filmed two episodes at once — you always need to keep track of your place in the script, the storyline, what happened before, and what comes next. But after doing this for a while, you get used to it. Then, when you realize this is episode seven, the second last one, it’s like, “Wow, this is our chance to do something like ‘Game of Thrones’!” (Laughs) There was nothing that I had to persuade me to do. I knew what the task was: Let’s Go For It!

When scenes flow more smoothly and offer a chance to perform them entirely without interruption, you’re given the opportunity to play the entire scene start to finish. This process is self-propelling; simply performing the scene sets it in motion. Therefore, trust that it will guide you from one point to another if you remain focused on the present moment, from moment to moment.

In the show, there are two emotional scenes featuring Sinatra that are quite distressing to observe. I wondered about the impact on Xavier’s psyche during these moments, when he first learns his wife is alive and then discovers Sinatra is threatening him with his wife and daughter’s lives. You express a variety of emotions in these scenes. Was the scene with Sinatra filmed as one continuous sequence?

Absolutely! During the production of episodes six through eight, Hanelle Culpepper (who directed episode six), as well as John and Glen (both executive producers and directors of episodes seven and eight) were present together. This was to ensure a seamless transition in continuity from episode six to seven, and then throughout the rest of episode seven, as these three episodes essentially form one continuous scene.

I mustn’t overlook the remarkable performance of Julianne Nicholson in this series, who plays an exceptional antagonist. By “monster,” I mean she’s exceptionally talented as an actress, but also terrifying to Xavier, as he considers shooting her. She excels at portraying evil, and it’s thrilling to act alongside her in these scenes. That scene, in particular, was one of the most gripping in the show, both in terms of physical intensity and emotional impact. Even holding a gun can tire your shoulder! Moreover, the character is in a situation where, after three years of being a single father, he’s suddenly faced with the possibility that his partner might still be alive.

I’m skeptical since I don’t believe anything this woman says, but if there’s even a sliver of chance that she exists in our world, I must investigate to confirm or refute it. By the way, is your daughter with you? Hearing this brings back such a powerful emotion. It’s as if she’s taken away my wife, and now you’re suggesting my children might be at risk too. Xavier’s daughter holds a unique place in his life, almost like a stand-in. So when it comes to matters of life and death, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Xavier right now.

In the final scene, how does Xavier appear? Just before the end, there was a moment of uncertainty as he returned his gun to its holster; the outcome could have been different.

The individual appears determined and ready to go to extreme lengths to rescue his child. His task is to identify the murderer, as directed by Sinatra. Previously, I believed that this person was responsible for the president’s death, but now I know otherwise because they are equally interested in discovering the truth about the assassination. This newfound information is crucial. With the identity of the president’s killer revealed, he can locate his daughter and retrieve her, which is a matter of utmost urgency. Once these tasks are accomplished, the person can disclose the whereabouts of his wife. He is a man with a clear objective.

The question on everyone’s mind is, “Who was responsible for the president’s murder?” Rest assured, you will uncover the identity of the culprit. However, I’m unable to disclose any further details.

Dan stated that he doesn’t intend to torment viewers, and instead, aims to resolve the major questions from season one in the finale. He will then introduce fresh mysteries for season two. He outlined a three-season strategy: “a slightly altered show, yet still the same show with the same characters,” he explained. Now that we’ve learned there might be an exploration of the world above, what can we expect from season two?

From the outset, I’ve been familiar with the scheme, and it’s evoked “The Wire” for me due to its similarities as a serialized drama that doubled as an anthology. Each season could stand alone, yet they all interconnected like pieces of a puzzle. I find the show’s structure incredibly engaging, and when discussing a potential third season, there’s a chance that the worlds within “Paradise” and the external world may overlap. The intrigue lies in exploring what occurs when these two realities interact with each other.

From the beginning, not everyone we’ve grown familiar with during season one will disappear. Historically, a character often meets an early demise as the brother figure. It’s refreshing to shake things up by altering this pattern. I’m glad to be part of it all.

Despite being made years ago, this program still feels incredibly relevant. Can you share your thoughts on what aspects of today’s culture or society it might be addressing?

I find this thing incredibly engaging. I sit there, watching it, almost as if I’m a spectator, and I can’t help but exclaim, “Wow, this is fantastic! It really hits the mark.” Given our current times, the recent political shifts in the nation, the intriguing coincidences of tech magnates with the government, not to mention the proximity… these are all natural connections to make. Additionally, it’s peculiar given the ongoing issue of global warming and the California wildfires that have occurred recently.

This statement serves as a warning, encouraging everyone to consider: Are we taking adequate steps to ensure the world we aspire to live in aligns with the reality we currently inhabit? It provides enough similarities to allow for these queries, yet it’s distinct enough that it’s not our exact world.

This statement is akin to a warning, prompting us to ponder: Are we doing enough to guarantee that the ideal world we envision is the one we experience in reality? It offers enough resemblance for us to ask these questions, yet it’s different enough that it’s not our exact world.

It seems likely that there won’t be any further intimate shower scenes featuring Xavier and Gabriela (Shahi) in future episodes, as the finale is shaping up to be quite dramatic. [Note: Brown and Shahi were previously shown in a steamy shower scene where he was depicted nude from behind.]

Hey there! As a gamer, let me tell ya, I can only handle one major event like that per gaming season. We’ve already had our fill with the last full moon, so no more for now, if you don’t mind me saying *chuckles*.

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Heaven’s initial seven episodes are currently available for streaming on Hulu. The final episode will be released next Tuesday. Keep up with THR’s show reviews and interviews to stay informed.

2025-02-26 04:25

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