‘Get Millie Black’ Creator on What Mattered Most and If He Wants to Do Another Season

[This story contains spoilers from the season finale of Get Millie Black.]

Marlon James, winner of the Booker Prize, makes his debut in television with “Get Millie Black,” produced by Motive Pictures for HBO and Channel 4 in the UK. This series is set in Jamaica, where it was penned by the author himself. In her initial lead role, Tamara Lawrance portrays ex-Scotland Yard detective Millie Black. Haunted by a past marked by her failure to save her brother from their mother and the poisonous homophobia of their country, Millie Black finds herself driven to put everything on the line – her life, her job, her relationship with both her sister and her police partner – in an attempt to rescue a young Jamaican boy named Romeo, whom she has never met, from being trafficked back to the UK.

This version aims to maintain the original’s essence while using simpler language for easier comprehension.

In five separate episodes, James and his writing crew recount this tale, with each of the key figures – Millie, Hibiscus, Holborn, Janet, and Curtis – serving as narrators. The final episode, which came out earlier in December, is narrated by Curtis (Gershwyn Eustache Jnr), who shares his intricate relationship with Millie, his private life with partner Daniel (Jomo Tafari Dixon), and the latter’s secret identity, while also focusing on Millie’s choice to leave for the U.K., aiming to help Romeo (Tijhon Rose). James reveals to The Hollywood Reporter that this episode reflects many aspects of his personal experiences as a queer individual in Jamaica.

As a novelist who excels in exploring the complexities of his characters, James demonstrates such skill by delving deep beneath their surface. His innovative approach extends to television storytelling, focusing on richly layered characters from predominantly Black communities in Jamaica, a nation steeped in legend. This narrative tackles the oppressive issue of homophobia and maintains a dialogue with the U.K. concerning its problematic colonial past – a move that showcases both boldness and foresight. It also exposes his own vulnerability.

James remarks, “I believe masculinity can be fluid,” when discussing Curtis. “It’s not exclusive to Jamaica; I observe it in Mexico and other nations… It’s trickier to maneuver in this regard, particularly if one is attempting to blend in, which seems to be Curtis’s goal. He’s striving to present as a heterosexual male, but he’s also trapped within a transparent closet.

In many impoverished Jamaicans and other residents of formerly colonized countries, there’s a widespread assumption that the “home country” offers an escape from their current circumstances because they are unaware of how colonialism contributes to their oppression. This idea is exemplified by the character of Janet (Shernet Swearine) in episode four.

In simpler terms, many people in poor countries think that returning to the country that colonized them can help them escape their difficult situations without realizing how colonization still affects their struggles. This belief is shown through the character of Janet in episode four.

After Holborn takes down Freddie, my friend Millie’s reaction leaves me pondering. Just like everyone else, she was taken aback to discover that it wasn’t Freddie deceiving Janet, but rather Janet herself who had set a trap for him as a means to escape Jamaica and secure the lavish lifestyle she admired among rich white folks like Freddie and his family. In her desperation to ascend, it was this ambition that ultimately led to her downfall. To Millie’s dismay, Janet perceived her as an obstacle in achieving her goals, choosing instead to side with Holborn, resulting in her own demise.

Lawrence tells THR that Janet acts like a detective who can’t resist the urge to investigate when she feels a nudge, similar to an itch she can’t ignore. This leads Lawrence to believe that Janet has been dishonest. Once this suspicion arises, it significantly damages Millie’s trust in Janet. Millie struggles between being understanding of Janet’s potential naivety about social mobility and the allure of going to a place where people dream of a better life, but Millie, who has left the country and experienced life there, understands the harsh realities of living in the UK. She knows that life is not as easy or simple as it may seem.

Now that I’ve wrapped up “Get Millie Black”, here are some responses I’ve got ready for some probing questions about the series, such as whether or not I’d be keen on diving back in. (wink wink)

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What did you set out to achieve and what do you think you accomplished with Get Millie Black?

Gosh, I was aiming to weave an engaging narrative. However, it seems I might’ve taken on more than one tale. The story of Hibiscus holds deep significance for me. Similarly, the narrative of Curtis as a queer Jamaican resonates strongly. As a storyteller, I enjoy posing challenging dilemmas to my audience. “Millie, in order to save one, you must sacrifice two,” Curtis contemplates. Yet, he understands that if faced with the same choice again, she would make the same decision.

To Curtis’ partner Daniel, Curtis is always choosing Millie. Why?

From what I understand, it seems like Curtis lacks a significant number of individuals who truly comprehend his entire personality. As far as I’m aware, only Daniel fits this description. However, I believe he needs more than just Daniel’s companionship. When Millie interacts with Curtis, she treats him authentically, not just accepting his sexuality but also acknowledging him as Curtis, which is crucial. This acceptance extends beyond approval of his being gay; it encompasses her acceptance and understanding of him as a person, including his relationship with Daniel. This sense of being understood and accepted is essential because it makes us feel seen.

He even says that Millie sees him several times.

I’ve managed to maintain friendships with everyone who accepted me for who I truly am, regardless of my initial desire for privacy about my identity as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.

However, when Millie joins Derrick Levy, whom she refers to as Richie, for dinner, it’s Millie who experiences unease instead.

Millie believes that her sister moving back home, improving their house, pretending to be someone’s girlfriend, or having friends and camaraderie will resolve the emptiness she feels inside. However, she discovers in these moments where she expects solace, it remains unfulfilled. The author implies that these things should be enough to alleviate her distress but they fall short. Moreover, Millie is tormented by a lingering presence of a deceased boy, and one cannot exorcise a ghost’s haunting.

Discuss the intense conversation between Bis (Chyna McQueen) and Millie, where they shared their experiences of growing up in a home haunted by their abusive mother’s past and filled with generational trauma. In many ways, it felt like a therapeutic session.

It feels like I’m in a therapeutic setting, where harsh realities are being laid bare. And honestly, Millie seems to be grappling with these truths. There’s this idea she holds close – that places tainted by terrible events can somehow be redeemed. Now, I know that sounds far-fetched, but many people believe it. I bet there are therapists who advocate for returning to the scene of trauma for healing. However, I think it’s a misguided notion that recovery will occur there. After all, she’s sleeping on the couch, and personally, I’m convinced that ghostly energies are too potent for such an attempt.

Millie’s efforts to save Romeo also exposes modern-day human trafficking and exploitation.

In the U.K., where human trafficking has significantly increased yet remains largely unaddressed, it’s often the case that when a trafficking victim is discovered, they are first perceived as an immigration issue rather than a trafficking one. Consequently, they may be deported, only to reappear in the U.K within a few weeks.

It’s like the victim is being blamed.

Indeed, the character is being held accountable. I only wish we’d had additional time to explore the issue of human trafficking further within the narrative.

As a gamer, I’d rephrase that line as follows: “Why does Daniel choose to stay with Curtis despite both of us getting captured and brutalized due to Millie’s disappearance in the U.K.?” This way, it maintains the original meaning but puts it into first-person perspective, making it easier for a gamer character to speak.

It appears that he cares for him deeply, and I believe he recognizes the potential for healing in their relationship. Additionally, it’s likely he understands the common tropes often found in portrayals of gay relationships on screen. To some extent, Daniel’s comment about the lack of positive representations of gay characters in media mirrors Marlon James’ sentiments of growing weary of these stereotypical narratives.

I think it is so powerful that Curtis is so tearful and grateful that Daniel didn’t leave him.

The script doesn’t require crying. I didn’t include tears in the script. It appears that during filming, these characters often found themselves on the verge of being swept away by their roles and circumstances. Tears weren’t included in that particular scene. Curtis isn’t prone to showing emotions, not typically. And I believe Daniel is perfect for the part. Moreover, I think Daniel is someone who endures a lot, but he also has the ability to call things as they are, challenging both Curtis and Millie.

Let’s discuss the character Holborn and his role. Why is it that we are led to believe he’s deceased, only for him to not actually die, and later on, end up passing away?

That’s due to my fondness for giving the character a double demise [laughs]. Initially, I had Holborn planned as a villain in some capacity, but I was unsure about the specifics. He carved out a unique role for himself where he primarily handles cleanup tasks, and this time, he takes it to a new level by committing actions he’s never done before – like killing someone. His job has always been to tidy up, to rectify situations, not to make them more complicated. However, Holborn is indeed a corrupt cop, much like many others in his profession who keep their personal and professional lives separate. In other words, they can lead seemingly normal lives outside of their corrupt dealings. It’s a common misconception that those with one negative trait have negative traits across the board. For instance, in American television, a racist character is often portrayed as an alcoholic or promiscuous as well, but many racists are loving parents to their children.

And his wife is not white either.

He deeply cares for his kids and his spouse as well. It’s fascinating how Holborn seems to have instilled within him the ability to recognize goodness even in those who often do wrong, whether it’s through their love for family or some other noble act.

By the conclusion of the series, it’s evident that Millie and her antagonist Natalie (Umi Myers), despite being on opposite sides of the law, share a similar dynamic in their lives. Millie’s relentless pursuit to save Romeo stems from her remorse over not being able to save her own brother Orville, while Natalie is determined to eliminate Millie to protect her brother Nico (Jamael Westman), whom she believes she had neglected when they were young.

This version retains the original meaning but uses simpler and more conversational language for a natural flow of reading experience.

Indeed, the connection I didn’t anticipate was discovering we have two brothers and two sisters, and Natalie is struggling to rescue her sibling, but here’s the twist: it’s a different brother she’s trying to save – one who caused all this trouble. Yet, it could be argued that Natalie’s devotion to her brother remains clouded, regardless of his actions. However, Millie’s loyalty towards her brother is similarly unwavering, as the sibling she’s devoted to no longer exists.

Why does Meera, Millie’s ex-partner in the U.K. (played by Anjili Mohindra), who continues to work and has a significant level of access, still assist Millie even after discovering that Millie is not entirely truthful with her?

In many aspects, Millie comes across as an exceptional friend. She has a unique ability to make others feel understood and validated. Her words have a way of instantly putting you at ease, conveying that she’s on your side. I believe this is one of the reasons why people often go out of their way for her – because they feel truly seen by her.

Get Millie Black is very good at showing how and why people feel trapped and don’t come forward.

I’m drawn to complex characters who are faced with difficult choices, often pushing them to their limits. For instance, Janet ultimately sacrifices her own life, while Millie loses those dear to her.

From what I’ve noticed online, there was a lot of enthusiasm among Jamaicans when they spotted ’90s dancehall/reggae queen Patra, also known as Dorothy Smith, in the show. How was it working with her, I wonder?

Patra was truly exceptional. It was indeed wonderful to work with someone as influential as her. Moreover, it’s inspiring to showcase the versatility of Jamaican talent. I must admit, I was quite in awe of her. And she is genuinely kind-hearted. Yet, Patra isn’t just a successful artist; she understands the struggles and choices faced by women who aren’t as fortunate. Many around her opted for paths that didn’t turn out favorably. However, Patra chose music, and although she may no longer be surrounded by those who made different, perhaps less fortunate, decisions, her past experiences still shape her today.

Online, many Jamaicans seem to really like Get Millie Black. How gratifying is that?

It was highly satisfying. I was conversing with someone about the difference between the homeland and the diaspora, and they were taken aback when I mentioned that I find a greater open-mindedness among people in Jamaica than among Jamaicans living in Minneapolis. This is because I believe that if you left in 1980, you might still be living in 1980, surrounded by people who share the values of that era. And I’ve observed this pattern quite a bit with many Jamaicans. However, I’m not implying that all Jamaicans are like this as I myself am part of the diaspora. But even those in the diaspora sometimes fail to recognize how much Jamaica has changed when they return. And why should they? After all, they left long ago.

Our nation and its people are undergoing change, and I experienced this shift firsthand when I returned to discuss “[A] Brief History [of Seven Killings]“. I initially thought that my return would not be welcomed after writing such a novel, but what I discovered was a younger generation eager to discuss topics we once kept secret. It’s astonishing to see Jamaican youth forming friendships with openly LGBTQ+ individuals, something that left me taken aback. This openness doesn’t shock me anymore; instead, it indicates an evolution in mindsets.

Furthermore, I believe that the show reflects the most authentic Jamaican essence. The unexpected surprise for many Jamaicans is how “Jamaican” the series truly is, as they are accustomed to a Jamaican flavor that could easily be found in a Bahamian production. The extensive use of Patois and recognizable characters might also come as a shock, as well as the representation of various Jamaicans on screen.

As a gamer, I found myself in Los Angeles and attended a chat with Lena Waithe at the FilmGood Film Festival. Fun fact: This festival is founded by someone of Jamaican or American descent! During our conversation, Lena couldn’t stop praising Get Millie Black, even going as far as expressing her interest in connecting with you about it.

Indeed, she texted me, expressing her anger. She stated, “You failed to inform me about this,” to which I responded, “I most certainly did tell you.” The fact that she created the series “Master of None” suggests that Lena values characters above all else. Similarly, for me, characters are my top priority. It was crucial that there was an engaging mystery unfolding, but my main focus was on the characters. Given my background with a mother who was a police officer, I am intrigued by questions like, “What drives you to go to work every day?” and “What hidden burdens are you carrying back home?”, as I had to endure both in my own life.

It’s intriguing that you mention Millie traveling to the U.K., as it seems people express concern about her safety there, yet they overlook the fact that she faces potential danger daily as a police officer.

Indeed, she frequently takes risks with her own safety. It seems that many people might choose not to rescue the boy, but for her, the thought of not helping when she could have is unbearable, something she wouldn’t want to live with knowing. That level of compassion is simply too heavy for her conscience.

What do you hope the audience takeaway is?

I’d like readers to understand that Jamaica is home to various types of stories, not just those involving hardships. While challenges indeed exist, the situation is nuanced. I hope these characters resonate with you so deeply that they become indelible in your memory, piquing your curiosity about their lives and making you invested in their journey, eagerly awaiting what happens next.

Will we see a second season?

I genuinely hope it continues onto another season, as there are numerous tales left untold. For instance, we have a brother and sister residing in the U.K., who are determined to seek revenge. Millie has caused significant damage to their lives recently. Upon returning to Jamaica, she finds herself lonelier than ever before. What will her next move be? And, most importantly, where on earth is Hibiscus?

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All episodes of Get Millie Black are now streaming on Max.

2025-01-07 00:26

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