Vince Gilligan and Rhea Seehorn, the creative minds behind the Apple TV series Pluribus, share an easy camaraderie that has been cultivated over a decade of working together on Better Call Saul. Their rapport is evident in the way they effortlessly navigate the creative process, from the initial audition process to the meticulous crafting of scenes. In this interview, they delve into their collaborative journey, the evolution of their characters, and the unique dynamics of their working relationship.
One of the key aspects of their partnership is the way they approach character development. Gilligan, known for his meticulous planning, initially created Pluribus with a male protagonist in mind. However, Seehorn's indelible portrayal of Kim Wexler, a character who transformed from a one-off love interest to a mainstay, influenced the shift in the show's direction. Seehorn's ability to bring depth and complexity to her role made Gilligan reconsider the lead character's gender, ultimately leading to the creation of Carol Sturka, an irascible author who finds herself excluded from the show's 'happiness apocalypse'.
The interview also sheds light on the unique shorthand that Gilligan and Seehorn have developed over the years. They have created a shared language that allows them to intuit each other's moves, making the creative process more efficient and collaborative. This shorthand is not limited to the set; it extends to their interactions with the crew, including sound mixer Phil Palmer, prop master Mark Hansen, and costume designer Jennifer Bryan. The familiarity and respect they have built within the Better Call Saul crew foster a creative and collaborative environment, enabling them to take risks and try new things.
Seehorn's character, Carol Sturka, is a complex and intriguing figure. She is a curmudgeon who initially struggles to enjoy the attention and love she receives from her fans. However, as the series progresses, she begins to learn from her experiences and the people around her. Seehorn's portrayal of Carol's internal conflict and her journey towards self-acceptance is a testament to her acting prowess. Gilligan, on the other hand, finds a lot of himself in Carol's character, particularly in her struggle to balance her gratitude for the love she receives with her desire for solitude.
The interview also touches on the importance of taking risks and being open to new ideas. Seehorn emphasizes the importance of having a supportive crew and directors who have your back. She shares a memorable moment from the pilot where she had to drag her wife's body up a truck, and the crew's support and encouragement helped her deliver a powerful performance. Gilligan, meanwhile, discusses the importance of 'taking a scene until it breaks', a process that involves pushing the boundaries of the character and the scene to create a more compelling and authentic performance.
In conclusion, the interview provides a fascinating insight into the creative process and the unique dynamics of Vince Gilligan and Rhea Seehorn's working relationship. Their ability to collaborate, take risks, and support each other has resulted in a show that is both critically acclaimed and beloved by audiences. As they continue to push the boundaries of storytelling, it will be fascinating to see what new and innovative ideas they bring to the table in the future.
