Jurnee Smollett, the actress known for her role as a star on the show “Smoke,” explains why her character, Michelle Calderone, is deeply flawed – much like many characters in this series. The narrative revolves around Taron Edgerton’s character, Dave Gudsen, an arson investigator who must work with his new partner, Smollett’s character, to investigate a string of fires that are causing destruction.
In an exclusive interview series, representatives from TopMob had the chance to chat with actors from the newest Apple TV+ series, Smoke. During these conversations, they delved into the intricate personalities that populate the new program.
Jurnee Smollett shared with TopMob that her character, Michelle Calderone who is an arson investigator, is attracted to perilous situations and destructive elements. This fascination keeps her in a cycle of damage and renewal.
According to Jurnee Smollett’s conversation with TopMob, Michelle Calderone, the character she plays, is drawn towards danger and things that could potentially bring about her own destruction. This predilection places her in a recurring cycle of chaos and growth.
Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, portraying a character named Freddy who exhibits a destructive tendency, refers to his role as “the most solitary figure in the universe,” an individual whose upbringing has resulted in an isolation that is hard for us to comprehend.
Captain Harvey Englehart, portrayed by Greg Kinnear, commented that he finds it intriguing that all the characters in the show seem to be attracted to situations that are potentially harmful for them. He also praised the depth and richness of the characters’ personalities.
Smoke premieres on Apple TV+ on June 27, 2025.
Jurnee Smollett Breaks Down Her Flawed Protagonist, Michelle Calderone
“She’s Drawn to the Things That Will Destroy Her.”
- TopMob: “One of the early things audiences learn about Michelle is that she doesn’t ever wear a seat belt. In fact, she has jury-rigged this thing in the car. Why is that? And how does that simple habit represent her as just a character and play into the deeper elements of just what makes her her?”
Jurnee Smollett: Her actions speak volumes as she seems attracted to perilous situations. She’s enticed by things that could potentially bring about her downfall. In a cycle, she’s involved in both destruction and creation.
Jurnee Smollett: It tells us something significant about her since she’s magnetized toward danger. She’s captivated by circumstances that might lead to her demise. Her life appears to be a cycle of destruction followed by creation, then back to destruction again.
Her past traumas, particularly her upbringing and connection with her mother, significantly shape her perspective on life. In essence, she tends to walk on thin ice or play with fire, as you might say.
The comparison of life’s forces to a fire is essentially encompassing various aspects of our lives, such as an unhealthy relationship with a married boss who she eventually leaves when he leaves his spouse. This ongoing struggle can be likened to Michelle’s precarious balancing act. Our aim in discussing this with Michelle was to delve into the reasons why humans find themselves in such situations.
Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine Breaks Down His Arsonist Outcast Freddy
“Freddy Is the Loneliest Man on the Planet.”
- TopMob: “Can you help paint a picture of why and how he has gotten to the point that the show finds him in at the start?”
As a film critic, allow me to express my thoughts on Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine’s portrayal of Freddy in the series: “Freddy is the loneliest soul traversing our celestial sphere.” His upbringing has cast him into isolation, a solitude that seems almost alien to us. I must confess, I never thought I could embody this man’s experiences, for they delve into realms of hardship and adversity few can comprehend. It’s challenging indeed, truly mind-boggling.
Essentially, the dilemma I faced seemed akin to figuring out a way to accomplish something, and it was Dennis Lehane who provided the solution when he suggested using one’s imagination. After all, you already possess your most powerful ally and instrument in this situation – your imagination.
- TopMob: “Do you think that Freddie, at this point, has the ability to connect with another person, or is he really just long gone?”
Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine seems to be yearning for a chance to bond with others. Despite his best efforts, he lacks the necessary skills, resources, and life experiences that would enable him to do so effectively. His past has left him hardened, scarred, and indifferent towards other people’s suffering. Unfortunately, he understands that his survival mechanism involves attacking and ultimately destroying everything around him—not only others but also the environment itself.
Smoke Star Greg Kinnear on How Fire Plays Thematically for All Characters
“All the Characters Are Kind of Drawn to Things That Are Bad for Them.”
- TopMob: “Fire is obviously the main focus of the story, but it’s both on a literal, but also a thematic level, what does that through line mean for your respective characters?”
Greg Kinnear: I believe that statement rings true. It seems to me that each character finds themselves drawn towards things that might not be good for them. Furthermore, I feel that they’re all grappling with problems that grow increasingly difficult as time passes, and this complexity of characters is one of the strengths in Dennis Lehane’s writing, as it certainly applies here.
In a more simplified and conversational manner: The fire chief, nearing the end of his career, seems to be yearning for a peaceful exit. Lately, there have been several fires in the small town of Umberlin, which not only stir up questions about arson but also ignite personal conflicts, particularly for my character.
I can delve into each character who seems to be burning with inner passion, making the writing quite engaging from that perspective. To put it simply, while this story does revolve around arson, the individual narratives are just as captivating and thought-provoking.
- TopMob: Whenever [Captain Harvey Englehart and Detective Rafe Spall’s Steven Burk] are in the same room together, they don’t really get along too well. So, what do these two people think of each other? What is that dynamic?”
In simpler terms, Greg Kinnear mentioned there’s a bit of competition or conflict happening, and it seems like they both feel somewhat uncomfortable due to each other’s strategic positions. This is a situation you may recognize from crime dramas.
Absolutely, I appreciate how the situation is being managed. It seems we’re not forcing the matter excessively, yet it’s still prominent. In fact, I believe they might find common ground easily in different circumstances. However, for now, there’s a puzzle to unravel.
Watch the full, spoiler-free interviews below:
If you want to see more interviews from TopMob, be sure to check here!
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2025-06-19 20:05