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Da’Vine Joy Randolph, an actor originally from Philadelphia and a graduate of the Yale School of Drama, was recognized for her outstanding performance in the Broadway production of Ghost: The Musical in 2012 with a Tony award nomination. Since then, she has expanded her career to include work in television shows such as High Fidelity and Only Murders in the Building, as well as films like Dolemite Is My Name, where she starred alongside Eddie Murphy, and On the Come Up, where she played Aunt Pooh. Recently, she won the best supporting actress award at the Golden Globes for her role in Alexander Payne’s The Holdovers, a bittersweet comedy-drama about three individuals in the 1970s. In the film, she portrays a grieving mother and head cook at an exclusive boarding school in New England, alongside Paul Giamatti’s grumpy teacher and newcomer Dominic Sessa’s troubled student.
I was initially approached by Alexander Payne, but I was not familiar with him. How did he persuade you to take on the role?
While working on On the Come Up, I was busy with various tasks during my day off when I was informed of a director meeting with only 24 hours’ notice. As the director described his vision for the project, I began to connect with him. Curious about his previous work, I asked for some examples. As he listed titles such as About Schmidt, Sideways, and The Descendants, I realized that this was the same person behind many of my favorite films.
What is it about Mary Lamb, the character, that makes her the most down-to-earth among the three main characters?
She possesses a delicate and gentle nature, and also has natural qualities of leadership, caregiving, and nurturing. Despite her imperfections, she still harbors deep love and optimism, whether she realizes it or not.
As an actor, how do you handle the immense weight of portraying the grief of American society in 1970, along with the loss of your character’s son?
This is a very dark period, possibly one of the darkest in America. I realized early on that I needed to defend myself. Once we finished, I was finished. Cooking is a source of comfort for me. I would prepare meals and use it as a way to bond with my family during this time. I tried to do anything and everything to regain a sense of normalcy.
What is your specialty dish?
I believe that cooking for someone is a wonderful way to show your love and care. Whether it’s a simple dish or a complex meal, the effort and thought put into it can be tasted. While I am not skilled in baking, I am confident in my ability to make a delicious sweet potato pie.
Do you reside in Los Angeles? I assume that means you enjoy warm weather. Was the temperature as low as it appeared during the filming in Massachusetts?
Yes, we were in deserted structures and ancient convents. I captured footage in my own living room where we watched television, as well as the boys’ dorm rooms at the start of the movie…which were actually converted from a nunnery. Due to a faulty radiator, we couldn’t use the heat because it would make a constant tapping noise. The snow used in the film was authentic, which added a special touch. It seemed to appear every time we needed it for a scene!
I learned that you personally selected all the clothing for your character in On the Come Up. Were you also involved in choosing the costumes for The Holdovers?
I have a strong preference for visual aids, so I often create mood boards or utilize iPhoto to share albums. Since the project had a vintage theme, we were fortunate to have access to a plethora of vintage fabrics, including plenty of corduroy, delicate embroidery, and floral patterns.
When did you first develop a passion for acting?
I have always been highly imaginative and had a passion for singing. Music was my gateway into the world of arts. However, during my junior year of college, I discovered acting and decided to change my major. I had been studying classical music in the vocal department and am trained as an opera singer. Although it was a spontaneous decision, I am grateful that I made the switch.
What inspired you to pursue opera?
A new student had recently joined my school and mentioned a summer camp for performing arts. Being a competitive person, I immediately applied without much thought. The camp required classical singing pieces, which I wasn’t particularly keen on. However, during a church Christmas concert, I was amazed by the powerful voice of a woman I met. Despite my reservations about opera, she saw potential in me and said I had a natural talent. She also mentioned the perks of being an opera singer – traveling the world, receiving love and praise, and being admired by men in beautiful dresses. This convinced me to pursue it as my dream job.
Have you worked with any famous comedians such as Eddie Murphy, Steve Martin, or Martin Short? Do you have a certain approach when working with a comedic genius on set?
First place is being ready. Also, understanding that you are sufficient. I believe that because they are highly regarded, many individuals feel intimidated or afraid. It’s like if it were a game of checkers, let’s say they always win. They become bored because they have defeated all their opponents. So when someone new comes along and challenges them, they become thrilled. It’s a new source of energy, and I have discovered that they have a lot to offer and teach.
What was your experience like collaborating with Eddie Murphy on Dolemite Is My Name?
I believe in pacing oneself, which is what I did in this situation – not expending all your energy too quickly. So while he remained quiet off-camera to conserve his energy, I took a different approach. I maintained a happy demeanor off-screen so that I could be more serious when on-camera.
You have already received multiple awards for best supporting actress, including a Golden Globe. How are you coping with the buzz surrounding these accolades?
The schedule is quite demanding, but it also brings immense joy. This is the ultimate dream for actors. Therefore, I refrain from expressing any complaints. I am simply focusing on each day as it comes. That is the only way to handle it.
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The movie “The Holdovers” will be shown in UK theaters starting on the 19th. January
Source: theguardian.com
