Ashton Kutcher Discusses ‘The Beauty’ Finale, Deleted Scenes, and Top Monologue
The finale of the FX horror drama “The Beauty” concluded its first season on a dramatic note. Lead actor Ashton Kutcher, who plays Byron Forst, shared insights into pivotal moments of the season, including a touching yet intense monologue that did not make the final cut.
Key Plot Developments
The season finale showcased Byron facing a significant moral dilemma. After his wife, Franny, portrayed by Isabella Rossellini and Nicola Peltz Beckham, was forcibly administered a pharmaceutical treatment by their sons, she attempted suicide in a moment of despair. This event sparked a drastic change in Byron’s perspective regarding the drug.
Byron learned that the treatment, referred to as “The Beauty,” resulted in severe deformities for some users, transforming them into monstrous forms. In response, he decided to discontinue the product and offer free medical assistance to those affected. However, his sons, in collaboration with Dr. Diana (Ari Graynor) and a hired assassin (Anthony Ramos), plotted to retaliate against Byron, leaving the storyline open-ended.
Ashton Kutcher’s Insights on Monologues
Kutcher reflected on the significance of several monologues throughout the season. One monologue left out of the final cut involved a humorous moment with seasoned writers in a campaign room for “The Beauty.” Despite being entertaining, he emphasized another scene where Byron endeavored to convince potential customers of the product’s value. This moment was crucial in expressing the conflicted nature of his character.
Character Depth and Relationships
- Byron’s Moral Conflict: Kutcher portrayed Byron’s struggle with his family’s expectations and his own conscience.
- Relational Dynamics: The tension between Byron and Franny highlighted their complex relationship, characterized by a deep-rooted need for each other’s approval.
Kutcher explained that portraying Byron meant balancing warmth and suspicion. He aimed to evoke empathy from the audience, subtly suggesting that Byron possesses a degree of nobility despite his flaws. His relationship with Franny is particularly pivotal, showcasing how their arguments often stem from a desperate longing for connection.
Collaborative Dynamics with Co-stars
Ashton Kutcher acknowledged the challenge of working alongside Isabella Rossellini, appreciating the authentic tension they created in their confrontational scenes. He noted the difficulties of delivering harsh lines while adhering to character motivations. The complex chemistry in their exchanges contributed to the show’s emotional depth.
The actor also discussed the unique collaboration with Vincent D’Onofrio, who portrayed a past version of Byron. Kutcher prepared extensively to align his performance with D’Onofrio’s portrayal, paying careful attention to character nuances, such as D’Onofrio’s left-handedness, which further complicated his performance preparations.
Looking Ahead
The narrative of “The Beauty” concluded with unanswered questions, particularly surrounding Byron’s fate and the effectiveness of Dr. Diana’s reversal agent. As fans await news of the show’s second season, Kutcher’s insights into the character and storyline developments offer a deeper understanding of the drama.
As “The Beauty” is now streaming on Hulu, viewers can explore the complexities of its characters and the convoluted moral landscape they navigate.
