Lesley Manville on the “Slightly Prophetic Nature” of ‘Grotesquerie’ After Major Season Finale Cliffhanger

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As a fellow artist and someone who’s been fortunate enough to tread the boards for many years, I must say that Kelce’s foray into acting in “Grotesquerie” is nothing short of commendable. It takes guts to step out of one’s comfort zone, especially when it involves a complete genre shift like this. It’s like an equestrian suddenly deciding to take up competitive ice-skating – madness, but also rather exhilarating!

[This story contains major spoilers from the season finale of Grotesquerie.]

The storyline of “Grotesquerie” might be more perplexing than usual following the season finale’s shocking twist. However, one key message running through the show’s themes about women’s (and men’s) rights, AI, and climate change – messages that are central to Ryan Murphy’s horror series – is undeniably clear for lead actress Lesley Manville before next week’s presidential election. “Be cautious when you cast your vote,” the British star advises The Hollywood Reporter. “Think deeply before you mark your ballot.

In the FX horror series, Manville’s character initially portrays Nurse Redd. Later in the story, she is known as just Redd, who becomes the lover to Marshall (Courtney B. Vance), Lois’ husband, following episode seven’s revelation that the original characters were projections created by Lois while in a liminal state. Initially believed to be in a coma throughout the first half of ‘Grotesquerie’, Marshall reappears in a hospital bed in the finale, having attempted suicide after being falsely accused of sexual assault by one of his students. Upon his release, Travis Kelce’s character introduces him to the Mexicali Men’s Club where he encounters individuals with similar views, tired of pronouns and accusations against “strong men”. This group includes Lois’ trusted Dr. Witticomb (Santino Fontana) and Dr. Charlie (Nicholas Alexander Chavez), who she has accused of sexual misconduct with an unconscious patient.

However, it’s unclear whether the events portrayed were real or just another dream sequence for both viewers and Lois at the end of the episode. Lois herself wonders if she ever woke up from her coma and if she might actually be deceased. Dr. Witticomb suggests she may have Cotard’s syndrome, a condition caused by the mind dealing with too much stress, and even speculates that Lois could be the season’s serial killer, Grotesquerie. By the end of the episode, the identity of the copycat killer remains unresolved, as does the nature of Grotesquerie.

As per Manville’s perspective, there are numerous points to consider amid the doubt surrounding another season of “Grotesquerie“. Here, Manville discusses these insights, focusing on the dual nature of her characters, their possible evolution in a hypothetical season two, and the moments that left her astonished upon reading Murphy’s script.

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When you joined the team for Grotesquerie, were you aware that the storyline was intended to span multiple seasons, and that the final episode sets the stage for a potential second season (even though it hasn’t been officially renewed yet)?

They discussed the possibility that it could walk again and potentially return, but no definite plans have been made public yet for another season. However, based on its positive reception, it seems likely that they may consider creating more content, and given the opportunity, I’d be excited to reprise my role in it.

“What aspects of this project attracted you the most, and were you aware of this two-sidedness in your personality right from the beginning?” (This version maintains a formal tone while still being easy to read.)

Indeed, I had the pleasure of meeting Ryan quite some time ago, approximately 10 to 12 years back. Our encounter took place in Los Angeles during my press tour for a movie titled “Another Year” directed by Mike Lee. Ryan had expressed interest in meeting me, and we shared an enjoyable discussion that lasted around two hours as I recall. We both agreed on the prospect of working together, and it turned out that this collaboration took a while to materialize. Eventually, he approached me with the script for “Grotesquerie” and mentioned that he wanted me to read all the drafts because I needed to be in the loop about the storyline. The twist in this script was the most surprising I’ve ever encountered; it left me momentarily speechless, and I immediately contacted Ryan to discuss it. He shared his idea for Redd, a character who would initially appear as a figment of Lois’ dreams while she was in a coma, but later be revealed as an English woman. After episode seven, when the truth about her relationship with Lois’ husband is unveiled, the character shifts to an American persona, providing insight into her real life.

As a longtime fan of dark humor and offbeat television shows, I found “Nurse Redd” to be a refreshing and intriguing addition to the small screen. With my background in nursing and familiarity with the typical depictions of healthcare professionals on TV, I was immediately drawn to this unconventional take on the character.

What was it like collaborating with Niecy Nash-Betts on the intriguing relationship between Redd and Lois, which leads to Redd proposing a throuple with Marshall in the finale? How did you approach creating and refining their character dynamics?

They certainly seem to clash quite a bit, don’t they? However, by episode seven, their harsh exteriors soften when you see them in a more realistic setting. They are strong-willed women who are confident in their decisions. Most of the scenes I shared with Niecy were imagined scenarios as Nurse Redd, so I had a lot of creative freedom. It was a pleasure working with Niecy. She is incredibly intelligent and extremely talented, and when you collaborate with individuals like that, you immediately sense a mutual understanding – knowing that we’ll both give our best and it will be a productive day on set. And just like Niecy, Courtney B. Vance was an absolute joy to work with as well.

Yesterday on his “New Heights” podcast, Travis Kelce hosted Niecy and expressed that after evaluating her performance, he believed there were areas where he could have improved. How would you rate her performance in your opinion?

I haven’t had the chance to witness it, nor have I worked with him on any scenes, therefore I can’t offer my thoughts. However, I admire his courage for venturing into new territory and tackling something so drastically different. It takes a great deal of bravery to expose oneself in such a way. I eagerly anticipate its release, for numerous reasons. Unfortunately, due to my current commitments – performing in eight weekly performances of the play “Oedipus” and shooting a series – it won’t be until December before I can enjoy “Grotesquerie” fully.

As I reached the final pages of the scripts that Ryan shared with me, finding myself at the abrupt ending – a rather suspenseful cliffhanger – my mind began to race. Naturally, I found myself pondering over various scenarios of how things could have unfolded differently. What about you? Did any thoughts cross your mind too?

Of course, as I reach the conclusion of each script, I’m reminded that a significant portion of the work isn’t within my control and doesn’t involve me directly. What excited me when reading the scripts was the opportunity to bring two characters, British Nurse Redd and American Redd, to life. With these dual roles came the challenge and joy of character creation, which is essentially my task. I had faith that Ryan Murphy would grasp the genre and visual style of the series given its talented creative team. The script was constantly evolving, so my approach became: Yes, I’ve read it. I understand its direction. Now it’s up to me to contribute. Upon arriving on set, I’m greeted by the stunning set and costume designs, collaborate with an exceptional hair and makeup team, and perform my role. Ultimately, the overall appearance, editing, and other aspects are not my concern. What I’m looking forward to now is sitting down to watch it all come together, as I’ll get to appreciate every element that has been carefully put in place.

In thinking about potential future seasons, where do you see your characters going from here?

If a new season occurs, it’s possible that Nurse Redd won’t reappear since her character was tied to Lois’s coma. This means we might see Redd as just Redd. Also, in terms of screen time, she wasn’t extensively developed, so there are many directions they could take her storyline. However, I can’t predict where it would go because that’s what makes Ryan Murphy such a successful producer and writer – he has innovative ideas. I wouldn’t dare to speculate as my thoughts might be less interesting compared to his. Instead, I enjoy thinking about the characters he creates and being the one who brings them to life on screen. That’s where my contribution lies.

As the series wraps up shortly before the election, what thoughts or lessons do you anticipate the audience will carry with them from the various themes presented within the show?

Exercise caution with your voting choice. Give it a good thought before making your mark on the ballot. Let me tell you, this show is intense, with numerous complex layers. It paints a grim picture and carries a deep message, one that’s clear as day. I believe that’s one of the reasons Ryan chose to create this series. You might say it’s not your typical examination of the nation. However, in many ways, it certainly is. The series seems to have a hint of prophecy about it. But yes, think thoroughly before you cast your vote, Americans.

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2024-11-01 18:56