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Madeline Brewer on Bronte’s Arc in the Final Season of You
In the concluding season of You, Madeline Brewer was aware that her character would play a crucial role, a promise made to her by co-showrunners Michael Foley and Justin W. Lo. “By the end of the series, Bronte will have Joe’s fate in her hands,” Brewer shared, recalling the anticipation that came with such a significant storyline.
Given Joe Goldberg’s (played by Penn Badgley) history of evading consequences, this arc places Bronte in a precarious situation. Their relationship unfolds amidst a complex backdrop, as she is a young writer who once admired Guinevere Beck, one of Joe’s earlier victims. This connection added depth to Bronte’s character for Brewer, who, as a fan of the series, welcomed the opportunity to explore this intersection of their narratives: “That just got me even more excited and intrigued,” she said.
Throughout the season, Bronte takes it upon herself to unveil Joe’s dark past, bolstered by an online community of amateur detectives. Despite her growing affection for Joe, she finds her commitment rejuvenated through encounters with women who survived him, rekindling her determination to bring him to justice. This culminates in a dramatic confrontation where she makes a consequential decision to shoot him in a desperate act as law enforcement closes in, ensuring he lives but without freedom.
Brewer, known for her role on The Handmaid’s Tale, navigated intense material with a blend of gravitas and lightheartedness, particularly through conversations with Badgley about literature and life. She shares that after long days of filming, she would often escape to Brooklyn for relaxing dinners with her co-stars: “It was beautiful,” she reminisces about that summer in New York.
Insights on Bronte’s Journey and Joe’s Love
Do you think Joe truly loved Bronte?
As a fan, I don’t believe Joe Goldberg is capable of love as most would define it. He lacks genuine respect for women, using them instead to fill an emotional void. The closest he comes to real affection seems to be for his son, Henry, but even that feels conditional.
When does Bronte realize the truth about Joe?
It begins during her conversation with Kate, which sets the stage for her awakening. Meeting Marienne, who she had thought was dead, serves as critical confirmation of Joe’s reality. This encounter with someone who has lived to tell the tale of loving Joe shifts her perspective significantly.
Behind-the-Scenes Moments and Deleted Scenes
Were there any pivotal moments left on the cutting room floor?
There was a memorable scene where Bronte greets Joe with, “Hello, you,” which I found iconic. While it was cut, I understand the writers’ choice to respect the intimacy of Bronte and Joe’s first encounter. However, I was thrilled to contribute to the voiceover that follows, which was a unique experience in itself.
What was it like filming the climactic scene with Joe?
Filming took place in the early hours of the morning amidst the woods in mid-August, under challenging conditions with rain intensifying the scene’s atmosphere. The logistics proved intricate, and I aimed to ensure that Bronte’s actions reflected her uncertainty — rather than aiming for any specific target, it was more about instinct and chance.
The Emotional Weight of the Final Scene
Your final line to Joe is quite impactful. Can you elaborate on its significance?
That line resonated deeply with me. It encapsulates the essence of deluding oneself in the face of flawed love. Many individuals entangle themselves in such illusions, hoping for the best in someone who presents destructive tendencies. I approached that moment with care, aware of its weight, even amidst the distractions of shooting in the rain.
This exclusive look at Brewer’s journey through the series offers a deeper understanding of Bronte’s motivations and challenges, enhancing our appreciation of the narrative’s complex fabric.
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