Cara Seymour, a celebrated actress with a career spanning over fifteen years, has collaborated with renowned directors like Spike Jonze, Martin Scorsese, and Lars von Trier. Her recent role as Sister Harriet in Steven Soderbergh’s “The Knick” showcases her unwavering commitment to her craft, imbuing her characters with profound humanity. This interview, conducted by her husband Josh Cheuse, delves into Seymour’s career, influences, and the passion she brings to her roles.
From London to New York: A Breakout Role
Seymour’s journey began in a small town outside London and led her to New York, where she landed a pivotal role in Mike Leigh’s “Ecstasy.” This 90s theatrical production garnered significant attention and established Seymour as a force to be reckoned with. She recalls a memorable night during the run when the Pope happened to drive by the theater. While acknowledging the coincidence, Seymour emphasizes the intensity and significance of the experience. Reflecting on her childhood and the influence of her grandmother, a lapsed Catholic with captivating stories of London’s East End, Seymour connects with the compassionate spirit of Pope Francis. She then draws parallels to her character, Sister Harriet, and the complex tapestry of characters in “The Knick,” emphasizing the pervasive suffering depicted in the series and its historical context.
Cara Seymour in The Knick.
Music as Inspiration: A Punk Spirit
Seymour acknowledges the influence of music on her work, citing the raw energy of Iggy Pop and the spiritual connection he forged with his audience as particularly inspiring. While her husband introduced her to rock ‘n’ roll, Seymour’s own tastes are diverse, encompassing soul, rap, classical, and opera. She recounts memorable performances by iconic artists like Keith Richards, Tony Bennett, Mary J. Blige, and David Bowie, highlighting the power of live music and the passion it evokes.
The Art of Collaboration: Working on “The Knick”
Transitioning to television with “The Knick,” Seymour discusses the unique experience of working with the RED Dragon camera, its low-light capabilities, and the fast-paced environment. She praises the collaborative spirit on set, highlighting the talents of her co-stars, including Juliet Rylance and Chris Sullivan. Seymour emphasizes the importance of admiration and respect among colleagues, particularly when working with a visionary director like Soderbergh. She likens the experience to being part of a “great big band,” where each individual contributes to a harmonious whole.
Sister Harriet: A Complex Character Driven by Devotion
Seymour addresses the complexities of Sister Harriet, whose unconventional behavior for a nun, including smoking and a secret side business, raises questions about her devotion. Seymour believes that the character’s inherent devotion to her calling is what makes her journey compelling. She acknowledges the high stakes involved for Sister Harriet but remains tight-lipped about the character’s future in the upcoming season.
Cinematic Influences: From Italian Neo-Realism to Polish Cinema
Seymour shares her admiration for iconic films and actors, particularly Giulietta Masina and Peter Sellers. She draws parallels between Sister Harriet and the performances of Anna Magnani and the spirit of Italian Neo-Realist cinema. She also mentions two Polish films about nuns, “Ida” and “Mother Joan of the Angels,” as recent sources of inspiration. Recalling her time in Rome while filming “Gangs of New York,” Seymour expresses her awe at working in Cinecittà, the legendary Italian film studio, and immersing herself in the city’s rich cinematic history.
The Daft and the Profound: Looking Ahead
Concluding the interview, Seymour expresses her enthusiasm for the next season of “The Knick” and her gratitude for being part of the show. Reflecting on the “daft and the profound” nature of life, she encapsulates the essence of her career and the enduring power of storytelling.
