Bad Sisters’ Fiona Shaw on teaming with Richard Curtis: “Christmas is peculiar for everybody”

As a seasoned film critic with a penchant for theatrical performances that leave a lasting impression, I can confidently say that Fiona Shaw is undoubtedly a star of both stage and screen. From her enchanting roles in films like Three Men and a Little Lady, the Harry Potter series, My Left Foot, to her captivating performances on Broadway and hit TV series such as Killing Eve, Fleabag, and Bad Sisters, Shaw’s talent is undeniable.

Irish actor Fiona Shaw is the true epitome of a star of stage and screen.

In various settings, whether it’s gracing classic films like Three Men and a Little Lady, Harry Potter series, My Left Foot, or dominating Broadway with Medea, or captivating audiences in popular TV shows such as Killing Eve, Fleabag, and Bad Sisters, Shaw is always memorable.

Currently, a 66-year-old individual is taking on an unusual holiday character in the animated film “That Christmas,” written by Richard Curtis. Interestingly, this part seems more akin to his personal life than any other roles he’s played thus far.

As for me this year, I’m bringing my acting chops to life in Richard Curtis’s fresh animated flick, “That Christmas.” This heartwarming tale delves into the rich tapestry of festive family traditions. Growing up in the vibrant city of Cork, what were my own cherished holiday customs? Well, let me share a few…

Every now and then, we indulge in ocean swimming. As children, we would exit the church following one Sunday mass since there were three services on a Sunday. We’d simply hop into our car after that and drive off. With us usually was some whiskey, which we’d apply to our feet at the end of the swim – it was all part of the custom. There’s an ancient, almost Celtic Christmas atmosphere about it – it’s something deeply rooted, almost primal. We swim as a way to cleanse the past and prepare for the future. It feels like a baptism, doesn’t it? You wash away the old and make room for the new. In essence, you might say it’s a symbolic cleansing ritual.

Do you think Irish and English Christmases are different?

In Ireland, we still strongly value community. I grew up in a small city where everyone knew each other, making Christmas very sociable as we’d meet many people during the festive season. I believe English Christmases might be more about individuals staying at home, but it’s much more enjoyable when people come together and celebrate with one another.

You’ve been acting for decades — what are the roles that people usually recognise you for?

In New York, I’m often approached about Medea or The Testament of Mary due to the vibrant theater scene here. However, it varies based on the crowd. There’s a massive Killing Eve fanbase – absolutely enormous! It seems everyone mentions it. For kids, it’s usually Harry Potter, and for slightly older children, it’s Three Men and a Little Lady. I’ve worked on several children’s films, and I enjoy them because the audience pays close attention and tends to rewatch things, so they are quite familiar with every detail of the production.

You’ve had such a wide range of roles, how do you pick them?

You seek out experiences that captivate your interest. Often, many things fail to do so, or they’re just rehashes of something else. However, I’ve had the good fortune to encounter unique opportunities, so I opt for those that stand out exceptionally, such as True Detective: Night Country and Bad Sisters.

What was it like, joining a tightknit cast like Bad Sisters for the second season?

1) They were incredibly warm and friendly. What a wonderful group they are! We had an amazing time – I thoroughly enjoyed playing Angelica! I’m eagerly waiting for more episodes. Even though I might be busy, I hope there will be more because it’s simply fantastic. The series was remarkably self-assured. Sharon Horgan has skillfully juggled many aspects of it. It’s just brilliant.

Have you, being an accomplished author, ever found yourself collaborating with Richard Curtis for the first time? Did that experience perhaps check a long-awaited item off your creative to-do list?

I don’t think I ever think like that! But I’m very pleased I’ve worked with Richard Curtis. I was thrilled to be with him, he’s a lovely person.

In the Christmas special, you portray the character of a stern headmistress named Ms. Trapper. Did this character draw inspiration from any of your real-life teachers?

You went to a Catholic girls’ school in Cork. Were the headmistresses very austere?

One was known as Kate Cahill – she was quite stern. Her second-in-command was a woman named Mary O’Donovan, who passed away not long ago at the age of 100. Both women were ardent advocates for the importance of education and possessed an impressive wealth of knowledge, earning them the title of ‘Ms Trappers.’

Ms Trapper in That Christmas and Angelica in Bad Sisters are both quite isolated and lonely in a way — did you draw on a similar muscle to play both characters?

I hadn’t considered the thought that Ms. Trapper resembled Angelica, however, your observation holds weight. Both seem to have been confined within institutions, yet it doesn’t appear that their commonalities extend beyond this aspect.

Is loneliness a side of Christmas that can get overlooked?

I agree with that sentiment. For most people, Christmas can be quite peculiar. Some may feel its absence, others may lose sight of its spirit, or something might go awry. I cringe at movies suggesting that every household is filled with nothing but sweetness and joy, except for yours. A more accurate portrayal would be to say, “Life has its ups and downs, and Christmas can be particularly strange. But if you can manage to find some enjoyment amidst it all, that’s truly a special time.

For me, Christmas as a child wasn’t an escape from others, but rather a journey closer to them. This essence is exactly what I feel That Christmas conveys – a heartwarming message that remains relevant today.

2024-11-26 03:43

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