Ella Purnell is making waves in the entertainment industry, and it’s not just because of her impressive roles alongside stars like Angelina Jolie and Margot Robbie. In her latest project, Sweetpea, Purnell embraces her British roots, showcasing a side of female rage that is often underrepresented on screen.
From Accents to Action: Purnell’s Journey
At just 28, Ella Purnell has built an impressive portfolio, seamlessly shifting from stage to screen. While many know her for her American accents in shows like Arkane and Fallout, Purnell proudly returns to her London tones in Sweetpea.
“Somebody commented on the trailer saying, ‘Wow, she’s got a really good British accent,’” she chuckles. “I’m very proudly British. Isn’t it obvious?”
The Appeal of Darker Roles
Purnell’s recent characters have often traversed the darker aspects of humanity. Her roles in violent shows are not merely coincidences; they reflect her desire to tackle challenging and unpredictable narratives.
- Rhiannon in Sweetpea: A woman grappling with grief, Rhiannon’s journey spirals into a tale of vengeance and empowerment.
“I just want to do different things,” Purnell states. “If a script doesn’t scare me or challenge me, I’m not interested.”
Exploring Female Rage: A New Narrative
Sweetpea delves into the complexities of female emotions, particularly rage, which Purnell believes is crucial to represent authentically.
“A lot of what Rhiannon goes through resonates with women universally,” she explains. “We often have to navigate our emotions carefully to avoid being labelled as hysterical or dramatic. It’s relatable.”
This exploration of female rage, according to Purnell, is essential. “It’s underrepresented. That’s what makes it terrifying; we don’t see it often, and we can’t predict it.”
The Moment of Transformation
As Rhiannon transforms from overlooked to vengeful, Purnell captures the unsettling beauty of this evolution. “It scared me to take on this role, but I wanted to be part of a story that makes you root for a serial killer without condoning her actions.”
The Challenge of Portraying Messy Women
Purnell’s portrayal of Rhiannon isn’t just about violence; it’s about the messy, complicated emotions that women face every day. “I don’t practice these emotions; I just let them out. It’s not always easy,” she admits.
In a world that often vilifies women for being “messy” or “complicated,” Purnell stands firm. “The internet isn’t forgiving to messy women. Everything is so curated; it’s tough to be authentic.”
The Weight of Fame
Having faced intense media scrutiny herself, Purnell reflects on the challenges that come with fame. In 2017, false reports linked her to Brad Pitt, leading to what she described as an “insane” media frenzy.
“British people don’t approach you as much as Americans do,” she notes. “But when they do, it can feel surreal. Like seeing yourself on a bus – that’s very strange.”
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Purnell?
As she continues to challenge the norms of storytelling, Purnell is excited about future projects that explore similar themes. “I love stories that delve into the darker sides of humanity. There’s something raw and real about them.”
And while she maintains a close-knit support system, she acknowledges the challenges of fame and the complexities that come with it.
“I keep my life small,” she says. “But the odd moments of recognition remind me of the strangeness of it all.”
Conclusion: A Voice for the Underrepresented
Ella Purnell’s commitment to exploring female rage in Sweetpea marks a significant moment in her career and for women in media. By tackling complex roles that challenge societal norms, she opens up crucial conversations about the representation of women and their emotions.
With each role, Purnell not only showcases her talent but also helps redefine what it means to be a woman in today’s world.
Through Sweetpea, she invites us to explore the darker corners of femininity, reminding us that it’s okay to be complex, emotional, and unapologetically real.
