Pamela Adlon, “Better Things”, showrunner, has a clear vision and message for her work. When it came time to film the fifth season of “Better Things”, there were some things that could not be ignored. One was that Celia Imrie, who plays Adlon’s cheeky mother Phil, had to be part of it.
Adlon took the show to Imrie, who was stuck in England due to medical reasons.
Adlon stated in a recent interview that Phil was needed because it’s the last season. “Then I thought OK, I’m going to just write these scenes, and we’re always going be in Phil’s dining room.”
Adlon, taking safety precautions, moved cast and crew to England in the middle the pandemic. Adlon recreated one scene from the LA-based set and took them with her. Imrie said she was humbled by their efforts.
Imrie stated that it was “overwhelming and quite magical, actually.” It was a tremendous challenge and a lot of work… However, I am so overwhelmed with admiration for Pamela and joy that she allowed me to be there and didn’t leave me out. That would have broken my heart.
Adlon directs, writes, and acts in all 10 episodes of last season. They will air on FX and Hulu starting this week.
“Better Things” is well-known for finding the poignancy in everyday life and shining a spotlight on minor characters. Its last episodes offer growth and resolution for many. It features a variety of characters, ages, and genders in the world of protagonist Sam Fox.
Adlon stated, “Everybody has their story, you know. That’s my favorite thing.”
Fox is based upon Adlon’s story — she’s a single mother who divorced and has three daughters. But many of the characters are not typical of regular comedies.
Adlon stated, “The show really gave me and my kids a voice that we hadn’t heard,”
Olivia Edward, the youngest daughter of Duke, thanked Adlon recently for her five-season evolution. “She said, “Thank you so much, for letting my be Duke, letting us tell these stories, and not making me a background figure.”
Adlon is a keen observer of details and people, making every frame feel purposeful. Adlon is a showrunner and has a purpose. She uses her power on the set to elevate and celebrate women. She made it a point to recruit many women for her crew, despite the fact that she was a dominant female actress.
It’s a safe place, and very nurturing. It just feels good for everyone. Adlon stated that men also love it.
Mikey Madison, co-star of the show, said that she feels very lucky to have worked with women for most of her career. “Seeing these women doing those things is something that’s important to me because it’s what I want to do. It’s amazing to see these women doing it, and I feel like I can do it too.
Many actors feel Adlon’s authenticity, unpretentious approach and inspiration for acting are what inspires them.
Imrie stated that she is the most beautiful actress and director of actors, because she hates it. The whole set is raw and honest.
Edward stated that Pamela was an amazing performer of improv and that it was something she encouraged.
“I have learned so much. Pamela says that she only writes what she knows. This is her very unique perspective …. Madison stated that Madison has this very unique perspective.
Adlon has an answer for those who are wondering if Sam Fox will find love at the end of the story.
Adlon stated, “The revolutionary act of a woman who can do it all on her own and is very skilled at it.” “Sam is a single wolf, and has always been.”
Adlon opened up when she was asked about her feelings regarding the finale of the show. She also answered the question whether she had said all she needed to. Adlon has been working in a vacuum to edit the last episodes, and she is happy that the storylines are resonating.
“It hit me like, “Oh my God! They’re listening!” It’s overwhelming and out there. It feels exhilarating.
