Director RaMell Ross, alongside his remarkable leads Brandon Wilson, Ethan Herisse, and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, recently discussed their adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel The Nickel Boys during an interview at the Telluride Film Festival. The film, which opens in theaters this month, delves into the complex and often painful history of Black people in the American South. In their conversation, the cast and director explored the themes of resilience and survival that permeate the narrative.
The interview, which has been condensed for clarity, reveals powerful insights into the film’s emotional depth and the process of bringing its challenging subject matter to life.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor on the Strength of Hattie
One of the film’s most compelling characters is Hattie, the determined and steadfast grandmother of Elwood Curtis, played by Ethan Herisse. In the film, Hattie embodies the strength and wisdom often associated with Black grandmothers, ensuring her grandson understands his heritage and the importance of perseverance.
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, who portrays Hattie, opened up about her own experiences growing up with a strong maternal figure. When asked about the inspiration for Hattie’s resilience, Ellis-Taylor immediately turned to her own grandmother, a woman who, like Hattie, was not outwardly emotional but showed love through action.
Ellis-Taylor shared a personal story about her grandmother, who was the wife of a pastor and a woman of unshakable strength. Despite being emotionally reserved, her grandmother expressed her love through acts of service and care. Ellis-Taylor recalled an experience when, as a young girl, she had to recite a poem at church during a severe storm. Despite the treacherous weather, her grandmother insisted on driving her to the church so she could fulfill her commitment.
“During that time, the car got stuck in the mud, and my grandmother, who was in her late 60s or early 70s, pushed that car out of the mud without asking for help,” Ellis-Taylor said. “She did it because it was necessary. That was her way of showing love and making sure I stayed on track.”
Ellis-Taylor’s grandmother’s actions exemplified the kind of quiet strength that Hattie embodies in Nickel Boys. For Ellis-Taylor, channeling this inner strength was essential to understanding Hattie’s character, particularly her commitment to ensuring that Elwood, despite all odds, understands his worth and place in the world.
The Resilience of Black Family Dynamics
In Nickel Boys, Hattie’s actions and sacrifice illustrate the importance of family in shaping one’s identity and sense of purpose. For both the characters in the film and the actors portraying them, the legacy of Black resilience is a powerful force. Ellis-Taylor’s reflection on her grandmother’s steadfast love highlights the broader cultural and generational strength within Black families—a theme central to the story.
Director RaMell Ross, who skillfully adapted Whitehead’s novel, has worked tirelessly to ensure that the story of The Nickel Boys remains true to the lived experiences of its characters. The film is not just a portrayal of injustice, but also a testament to the power of family bonds and survival in the face of systemic oppression.
As the film prepares to open, the cast and crew are eager for audiences to experience this heart-wrenching yet uplifting story that underscores the importance of remembering one’s roots, even when the world around you seeks to erase them.