Here are some of the key themes and insights from the interview,broken down for clarity:
1. Cadence‘s Complexity:
Not Likable, Not a Stereotype: The actress found it challenging but rewarding to portray Cadence as a character who isn’t simply likable. She’s not a clear-cut hero or villain, but someone who believes she fits a certain mold, even when she doesn’t.
Victim Mentality: Cadence sees herself as a victim, which influences her actions and outlook.
2. Filming the Finale (The Twist):
Immersion and Gaslighting: The actress immersed herself in Cadence’s experience of being manipulated and experiencing amnesia. She felt “gaslit” on set, which helped her understand Cadence’s confusion and emotional state.
Grief and Meltdown: The finale is interpreted as Cadence’s ultimate grieving process. The revelation of the truth leads to a “full-on meltdown” because she wasn’t prepared to face it.
3. Dealing with the twist During Filming:
Denial and Focus on Surface Issues: The actress intentionally ignored the twist to focus on Cadence’s immediate emotional reactions to things like Gat’s infidelity and her mother’s control.
Challenge for the Liars’ Actors: She acknowledges that it was likely more challenging for the actors playing the Liars to maintain the secret and mislead the audience.
4. Blame for the Liars’ Deaths:
Cadence is to Blame: The actress believes Cadence bears responsibility for the Liars’ deaths.
Privilege and impatience: Cadence’s actions stem from a privileged mindset where problems can be “burned down” without considering the consequences. She lacks the patience and understanding of the “normal peopel things” needed for growth.
Nuclear Reaction: Cadence’s reaction is described as “nuclear,” highlighting her destructive tendencies.5. Cadence’s Relationship with Her grandfather:
shared Memory Loss: In Summer 17, both Cadence and her grandfather are experiencing memory loss, creating a unique connection and shared confusion.
The Choice: The grandfather presents Cadence with a stark choice: protect the family and cover up the truth, or leave and face the consequences (potentially jail).
Redemption (of Sorts): Cadence’s decision to leave is seen as a moment of potential “redemption.” She acknowledges the gravity of her actions and chooses to take responsibility, even though it means facing the consequences alone. She knows what she is doing.
In essence, the interview paints a picture of Cadence as a complex, flawed character whose actions are driven by privilege, a desire to be seen as a victim, and an inability to fully grasp the consequences of her choices. The actress’s insights provide a deeper understanding of cadence’s motivations and the tragic events of the story.
