Oscar Isaac and Teyana Taylor Discuss Frankenstein and Challenging Set Days
Oscar Isaac and Teyana Taylor are taking on complex roles in this year’s cinematic landscape. Isaac portrays a unique version of the infamous doctor in Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein.” In this adaptation of the Gothic classic, his character abuses his creature creation, played by Jacob Elordi. Meanwhile, Teyana Taylor shines in Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another,” where she plays Perfidia Beverly Hills, a character shrouded in ambiguity and moral complexity.
Oscar Isaac on Teyana Taylor’s Breakthrough
Isaac expressed his admiration for Taylor’s performance in “A Thousand and One,” calling it an emotional revelation. He noted that her ability to portray raw emotion was captivating and genuine. Taylor had recently retired from music and sought to explore other creative avenues. This leap of faith came shortly before she received the role of Perfidia, which she considered a divine opportunity.
The Challenge of Transitioning Roles
- Isaac discussed the challenges of embodying Victor Frankenstein, noting the role’s emotional intensity.
- Taylor elaborated on how she found freedom in acting, especially when breaking away from her music career.
- She felt a need to showcase her different layers while portraying a character like Perfidia.
The Complexity of Characters in “Frankenstein” and “One Battle After Another”
Both actors emphasized the depth of emotion required to play their respective roles. Isaac described Victor Frankenstein as a character both liberated and tortured by his actions. Taylor explained her approach to Perfidia, indicating her character’s inner struggles and past traumas.
Exploring Emotional Layers
For Taylor, the development of Perfidia involved understanding her character’s emotional landscape. She likened her process to color-coordinating different emotional layers—each color representing a different sentiment or experience. This method helped her access complex feelings required for the role.
Improvisation and Collaboration with Directors
Isaac and Taylor shared insights about working with their respective directors. Taylor highlighted Paul Thomas Anderson’s improvisational guidance, which encouraged spontaneous performance. Isaac added that del Toro’s directing style provided a collaborative energy, making acting feel like a shared experience.
The Weight of Performance
Both actors conveyed the weight of their performances. Isaac described a particularly challenging scene involving the confrontation between Frankenstein and his creature. This emotional turmoil was vital to the storytelling and mirrored the darkness present in Taylor’s character arc.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Taylor is eyeing a directorial role while managing her culinary school pursuits. She indicated that her time in culinary arts helps ground her in a chaotic industry. Isaac also expressed an interest in integrating his experiences into future projects, seeking to push the boundaries of his roles.
As they navigate their careers, both Oscar Isaac and Teyana Taylor are committed to exploring complex characters. Their conversations reflect a shared understanding of the intricacies of performance and the power of storytelling.
