Vince Gilligan and Rhea Seehorn, the creative minds behind the Apple TV drama series Pluribus, share an easy camaraderie that has been a cornerstone of their successful partnership. Their rapport, sparked by Seehorn's indelible portrayal of Kim Wexler in Better Call Saul, has led to a deep and productive working relationship. In this interview, they delve into their creative process, the challenges of creating a compelling story, and the importance of a supportive crew.
Gilligan and Seehorn's first meeting was during the Better Call Saul audition process, and it set the tone for their collaboration. Seehorn recalls the sincere and kind atmosphere, which eased her nerves. Gilligan, who had been working on Pluribus for a decade, was drawn to Seehorn's portrayal of Kim Wexler, which he felt was crucial to the story. He wanted to tailor the role for her, and his decision to pivot from a male lead to a female protagonist was a key moment in the show's development.
The pair's shorthand and intuition for each other's moves have developed over the years, making their creative process more efficient. They discuss the importance of a supportive crew, with Seehorn emphasizing the need for actors to take risks without fear of judgment. Gilligan, who relates to Carol Sturka's curmudgeonly aspects, highlights the value of a positive and cheerful set atmosphere, even when things get tough.
Seehorn shares her process of taking a scene 'until it breaks,' which involves pushing for more nuanced and authentic performances. She appreciates Gilligan's willingness to trust her and experiment with the script, as seen in the addition of comedic elements to her character's bereft moment. The pair's shared respect for each other's talents and their ability to collaborate effectively have been key to the success of Pluribus.
Looking ahead, Gilligan and Seehorn are optimistic about the show's future, with Gilligan hinting at new plot points and Seehorn expressing her excitement for the crew's work. Their deep love for the Pluribus crew and their shared passion for storytelling have created a unique and productive working relationship, setting the stage for a compelling second season.
