Julia Schlaepfer’s Heart-Wrenching Journey in ‘1923’: America’s Cruel Welcome

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[This story contains spoilers from the third episode of 1923 season two, “Wrap Thee in Terror.”]

The latest episode of 1923 plays out like a mini-movie starring Alexandra Dutton.

In the season two finale of the Yellowstone prequel, Alex (portrayed by Julia Schlaepfer), was tragically separated from her husband Spencer Dutton (Brandon Sklenar). As the third season unfolds, we follow Alex as she embarks on a challenging journey across the sea to locate him in America.

In the third installment, titled “Swaddle in Fear,” Alex embarks on her journey to America through Ellis Island following a second-class sea voyage from England. Eager and full of optimism to enter America, she is taken aback by the welcome she encounters. Being a solitary female traveler who’s four months along with pregnancy, Alex finds herself in a vulnerable situation that many immigrants hoping to be welcomed into U.S. during this particular period in American history would have faced.

In my own words as a fan, I’d rephrase it like this:

In my first interaction with an American officer, Alex is questioned about her command of English. When she jokingly remarks that the English created the language, he responds by physically attacking her to assert his dominance. From then on, the situation spirals as a series of medical professionals, under the pretense of examinations for sexually transmitted diseases, subject Alex to sexual assault. In her most degrading encounter yet, an arrogant immigration officer questions her value and her potential contribution to America. Throughout this harrowing ordeal, Alex maintains her resolve. Yet, even after gaining entry into the country, she still faces peril – the episode concludes with a hint of another attack, this time in Grand Central Station by an unknown man who follows her into the restroom.

She refuses to yield on her journey to Montana. Instead, she’s continually delving deeper, searching for the resolve necessary to reach her destination,” Schlaepfer says of Alex’s tenacity in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. “Nobody should have to endure what she does, but she perseveres, and I believe it’s largely due to the child she’s carrying. She must get that baby to Montana.

In my gaming world, as I delve deeper into the narrative of ‘1923’, I’m struck by how Taylor Sheridan masterfully portrays a mother’s unwavering love, just like Alex. Researching the challenges faced by women in 1923 America, particularly those at Ellis Island, resonates strikingly with today’s immigrant struggles. It’s fascinating to see how these historical parallels unfold and empower Alex to persevere. I can’t help but wonder about the Dutton family tree and spot similarities between Alex and Beth Dutton. Sheridan has truly crafted an extraordinary tale, one that showcases a mother’s courage and resilience, as evident in Alex this season – she’d flip over cars to save her baby! That’s the spirit we see from her this season.

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As a gamer, when I received the script for Alex in Taylor Sheridan’s work, I was thrilled to find such a rich character to delve into. With that in mind, I wanted to ensure I brought my authentic self to the role. So, how did I prepare? Well, I immersed myself in the world of the story, studying every line, every nuance, and every subtlety. I researched Alex’s background, his motivations, and his emotions. I visualized him as a three-dimensional character, not just a collection of lines on a page. And then, with all that groundwork laid, I stepped into the role and let my imagination take flight, striving to breathe life into this complex, captivating character.

I was deeply moved to share a tale that resonated with countless individuals, knowing full well it would be a tough task. He had warned me it would be difficult. As a woman, I could empathize with the fear of potential violation or actual experiences of it; I believe many women can relate. The era was different back then, especially for a pregnant woman without a legal partner in the 1920s, making it even more challenging. To infuse the narrative with authenticity and resilience, I drew upon my personal emotions related to that time and often found myself reminiscing about Alex and Spencer’s adventures in Zanzibar (from season one) to provide motivation for her as she persevered.

As you mentioned, Alex is going on a solo trip while expecting. Were there similar stories of women in her situation found during your research? How did your study enable you to empathize with such experiences?

As a gamer immersed in a historical narrative, I can relate to the harrowing journey my great grandfather took through Ellis Island with just $15 to his name. If I were a pregnant woman alone, facing this ordeal, it would undoubtedly be one of the most challenging and heart-wrenching situations imaginable.

Walking onto those sets, surrounded by people in period attire, their tags hanging prominently, was an intensely emotional experience for everyone involved. It was a privilege to bring this moving, brutal, yet incredibly special storyline to life.

I researched extensively about that era, but eventually decided to halt my investigation as there were accounts of positive experiences at Ellis Island. What I uncovered was that the positive aspects seemed to be more widely documented. Given the hardships immigrants faced during that time, it’s unlikely anyone would brag about the difficulties they encountered. Therefore, I shifted my focus towards understanding Taylor’s writings for her character and the implications of her story for those who emigrated in the 1920s, as well as contemporary immigrants. Moreover, I delved into the experience of feeling dehumanized and the strong belief that everyone deserves equal opportunities and a chance at freedom, which was echoed in Taylor’s writing for Alex.

In our footage, we observe Alex being struck in the abdomen by a police officer. We also learn that she’s expected to be subjected to sexual abuse by three medical professionals. One of these incidents is captured on camera. Can you tell me how many days you spent filming the Ellis Island scenes and whether they were filmed sequentially?

In our production, we didn’t shoot scenes sequentially. However, the sequences filmed in order were those involving the doctors where they perpetrated the assault, followed immediately by her monologue to the immigration officer. This arrangement was beneficial for me as an actor, enabling me to transition out of that distressing mental state and regain a sense of control at the end of each day’s shooting.

For four consecutive days, we captured footage at Ellis Island. It was all done within that specific timeframe. That particular week turned out to be quite tough. By the end of the first day, I found myself thinking, “This requires a great deal of strength and determination to complete.” You simply have to hold on to your adrenaline and keep pressing forward.

In the previous season, Brandon and you shared the screen as your characters were trapped in a love time capsule. You encountered various obstacles but found comfort in each other. This time around, you’re embarking on a solo adventure, and for this episode, your co-stars are new faces. Was there an intimacy coach present to guide you during filming?

Absolutely! Sarah Scott, an outstanding intimacy coordinator, was with me on set, marking the first time I truly felt the need for such a presence. Sarah provided invaluable support and guidance during challenging scenes, ensuring my comfort and well-being. The crew has become like family to me over our shared experiences, and they showed immense compassion for Alex’s character, making them equally invested in my journey. Consequently, they stood by me throughout the process, offering unwavering support and attentive care.

This season is quite a change from the first one; it’s not just about Alex and me facing frightening situations anymore. Back then, there was always this sense of calm since Spencer was always ready to step in. The mysterious events with the lions and shipwrecks [in season one] had an otherworldly feeling, like embarking on a grand, albeit demanding, journey. But this time around, the challenges feel much more grounded in raw reality – it’s Brandon and me really getting tested to our limits.

I bumped into Brandon on set one day after he had wrapped up half a day’s filming and I was just about to go on. It was the first time I’d seen him properly since we started shooting. He asked me how I was, and I replied that it was tough going but I was okay. He seemed to be enjoying himself, telling me they were filming a fight scene where he was supposed to beat up some guys. I responded enthusiastically, saying I was glad about it. (Laughs)

Just over here, trying to get to you!

(Laughs) Exactly. I’m clawing my way!

There seems to be confusion about the Dutton family lineage. Specifically, it has been asked whether you and Brandon are the grandparents who carry on the main Yellowstone family line, or is it Jack (Darren Mann) and Liz (Michelle Randolph)? With your recent pregnancy announcement, I’m sure you’ve noticed that some viewers have seen similarities between Beth (Kelly Reilly)’s fierceness and Alex. Do you agree with this comparison?

I’m delighted to take on the role. It’s an honor for me to be part of the Dutton family, even if it means playing the grandmother of John Dutton, portrayed by Kevin Costner. At first, I wasn’t sure if it would be me or Liz who would fill this role. However, I felt a strong desire to blend elements of Beth into Alex’s character because Spencer is part of the Dutton family and falls in love with someone like Alex. Alex, as it turns out, shares traits with both Cara, played by Helen Mirren in “1923,” and Beth – the feisty, strong-willed women in this family. I thought it was crucial to incorporate these qualities into Alex’s character. This season, you’ll see more of Alex’s tough strength akin to that of Beth, which is quite exciting!

This final segment hints at further peril for Alex as the man from the trailer, who previously attempted to assault her, is shown following her into the ladies’ room at Grand Central Station. You also referenced a scene where she stands up to an immigration officer and maintains her determination throughout.

Absolutely, Alex is remarkable in her depth and courage. What makes her truly beautiful is her bravery. At times, she may stumble or make mistakes, but her tenacity and resilience are unmatched. Her pursuit of love, happiness, and truth is inspiring. I admire this quality in Alex – her honesty and courage stem from her clear understanding of what she desires, and nothing deters her from reaching her goals. She continues to delve deeper and deeper, drawing on her inner strength to persevere. There’s no doubt about it.

How do you suppose she bears the burden of her traumatic experiences from this voyage? Does she seem resolute, determined to reach her destination regardless of obstacles, for the sake of the child and Spencer?

I firmly believe this. Each hardship and obstacle she encounters during this season only serves to strengthen her determination to reach her goal. It propels her forward and gives her the strength to persevere, while simultaneously helping her discover what she’s capable of independently. Unfortunately, no one should have to endure what she does, but she manages, and I feel that the transformation in her is a testament to the child she’s carrying. Of course, reaching Spencer is important, but I don’t believe there would be as much urgency if it weren’t for the family she’s cultivating and beginning with him. This isn’t just about them embarking on this exciting journey any longer; it’s about something far greater than both her and Spencer. She needs to deliver that baby in Montana.

In a more casual and clear manner, the question could be rephrased as: “Given that you knew the direction of Alex’s story for season 2, did this influence the way you portrayed her during this current season?

Taylor unexpectedly delivered six of his latest scripts to me at once, leading me to spend an entire day secluded in a room engrossed in reading them. Overwhelmed by their beauty, I ended up calling him after crying profusely. We had been aware of the script’s direction, unlike in season one when we were clueless. Brandon and I were even in Africa, expressing disbelief that they would end up together, but now we know how it turns out. Despite this foreknowledge, I am thrilled to be part of narrating this captivating story. Truly, he has penned something extraordinary.

In our collective opinion, it was an enlightening experience for us all to avoid any hint of foreshadowing in our performances. Prior to shooting, I thoroughly memorized every episode and carefully mapped out the character’s physical and emotional transformation. This way, when I arrived on set each day, I could focus solely on her current experiences rather than future or past events. Was she experiencing joy that day? For instance, in episode three, when she meets the newspaper stand man or the worker at Grand Central, those were small victories for her character. On days like those, arriving on set felt like someone was being kind to me, which helped me preserve her innate sparkle and positivity.

Taylor Sheridan sheds light on aspects of American history, often overlooked, using stories like Teonna Rainwater’s from the reservation school era, and it seems he is doing something similar here through Alex’s immigration storyline. Can you describe how experiencing what she has gone through – even including her time at cowboy camp – has had a broader impact on you?

Through the course of learning about history and our world, I found myself deeply immersed in Alex’s story, Julia here. It felt like I lived through her emotional ups and downs, so I’m still processing everything! This experience seems to have taken a part of me, and I received a part of her in return. It’s safe to say it transformed my life significantly, which is why I ultimately moved to Montana due to the impact this show had on me.

At the cowboy camp, we were fortunate enough to work alongside some exceptional cowboys, cowgirls, and wranglers from all over the globe. It was an enlightening experience for us. These people are truly remarkable, hardworking individuals who captivated me with their passion for their way of life. So, following season one, I found myself longing to immerse myself deeper into this world back in New York City where I had resided for a decade. On a whim, I browsed Zillow and thought, “What about a ranch?” I managed to find a property that seemed perfect, and without even visiting it first, I purchased it and moved there just a month later. The world that Taylor and the show have opened up to me has left such a profound impact.

What is your life like in Montana?

I’m not yet a fully-fledged rancher, but Taylor has invited me to Texas for a learning experience when the opportunity arises. If I go, I’d live with his wrangler friends in their apartments and learn the ins and outs of managing a ranch. My dream is to eventually own a couple of horses, though I don’t have the necessary facilities at present. I’ve found a community out there that I feel a part of. The small town nearby is charming, filled with wonderful locals who’ve welcomed me into their lives. There’s swing dancing every night, giving it an almost surreal, movie-like atmosphere. It’s a delightful escape when I’m not working.

Taylor often casts genuine characters in his shows, sometimes using the same individuals for different roles across multiple productions. Are you open to taking on a new character within the Sheridan-verse?

If Taylor presents me with a remarkable character, there’s no doubt – I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time on this series. Collaborating with Taylor within the Yellowstone universe in another role might feel slightly unusual given how deeply invested I am in Alex and her storyline. However, I would gladly collaborate with Taylor again on one of his other projects. He’s an exceptional writer, and our creative process together has been incredibly rewarding. His passion for acting, stemming from his own background as an actor, makes working with him feel like a dream because we can delve so deeply into the work.

Is it uncertain whether season two marks the conclusion of 1923, or does the final episode suggest that there’s potential for further storytelling within this timeframe of the Dutton family’s history?

I truly believe there’s always potential for more. Absolutely! The characters in this series are simply remarkable and have a special charm that resonates with audiences. After all, Taylor has crafted them so skillfully. I’m certain that every actor on the show would jump at the chance to return for another season, given our shared affection for it. So, while we can’t predict the future, let’s keep an open mind! I wonder what Taylor might be planning next.

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I’m diving into the first three episodes of season two of my favorite show, right now, streaming on Paramount+. Check out THR for all their season coverage and exclusive interviews!

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2025-03-09 19:25