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Inside the Emotional Turbulence of “Shrinking”: A Deep Dive with Lukita Maxwell
Lukita Maxwell recently discussed her role in the acclaimed series “Shrinking,” highlighting how the challenges faced during filming ultimately enhanced her performance in a pivotal scene. In an interview with TheWrap, she reflected on the impacts of unexpected delays caused by severe weather during a particularly intense moment with Brett Goldstein’s character.
Warning: this article contains spoilers for “Shrinking” Season 2, Episode 3.
The episode titled “Psychological Something-ism” was a turning point for Maxwell’s character, Alice. It marked Alice’s first confrontation with Louis, portrayed by Goldstein, who played a significant role in her mother Tia’s tragic death due to drunk driving. The setting for their explosive scene unfolds in a cafe where Alice seeks closure.
Initially, Alice is met with a warm greeting from Louis, but the atmosphere shifts dramatically once she reveals their tragic connection. Her emotional response escalates as she confronts him about her mother’s death, culminating in a powerful outburst where she firmly tells him to “shut up” and exits the scene, leaving the onlookers stunned.
Maxwell shared that she and Goldstein established a bond and trust ahead of filming the intense scene, utilizing positive affirmations to prepare. “Brett and I just had a quick conversation and a check-in: ‘I trust you. You trust me. I feel safe with you. You feel safe with me. Let’s f—g do this,’” she recounted. This preparation was soon disrupted by nature when lightning strikes required a halt to production.
“We began shooting with wide shots when a lightning strike occurred within a five-mile radius, prompting a production delay,” Maxwell explained. “As regulations dictate, we paused for an hour. Curiously, just before we were cleared to proceed, there was another strike, necessitating us to start the countdown anew.”
Throughout the initial hour of waiting, the cast aimed to maintain the scene’s emotional energy. However, as the hours dragged on, Maxwell noted that they ultimately approached the scene with renewed intensity after the break. “Revisiting the scene later with fresh eyes was beneficial for my performance, as I avoided getting trapped in a specific emotional state,” she remarked. “It turned out to be an energetically charged day.”
The episode concluded with a surprising kiss between Alice and her childhood acquaintance, Connor, played by Gavin Lewis. Their encounter, filled with tension and unresolved feelings, leaves viewers eager for resolution in the next episode. Alice, grappling with her emotions, unexpectedly kisses Connor, who initially hesitates but soon reciprocates. Their romantic entanglement raises eyebrows, especially since Connor is currently dating Alice’s close friend, Summer.
Maxwell expressed her amazement at the development of this plot twist. Their on-screen connection was particularly surprising given her long-standing friendship with Lewis, whom she has known since childhood. “It was a fun shock to see that relationship explored in the narrative,” she noted. “What caught me off guard was how the writers chose to weave this dynamic into the story, especially considering our history as friends.”
She likened the experience to the behind-the-scenes revelations from the “Harry Potter” franchise, where Emma Watson and Rupert Grint discussed their initial on-screen kiss. “It’s a strange feeling to share such a moment with someone you’ve known for so long,” she commented, reflecting on the unique challenges of performing such intimate scenes with a childhood friend.
As “Shrinking” prepares for a third season, fans can look forward to more unexpected developments as the story continues to evolve. Currently, Season 2 is available for streaming on Apple TV+, offering audiences an emotional journey driven by authentic character interactions and story arcs.
Source
www.thewrap.com