annie weisman is an American writer, screenwriter and producer who has made a difference by getting involved in stories in which women rebel in every sense of the word, as in the case of the series ‘Desperate Housewives’. This time, he came back with ‘physical’, a drama with touches of black humor, which is not only an ode to female liberalism, but also an autobiography.
What has been the most difficult character to develop?
Sheila, because it’s based on my own experience, it’s someone who has lived through eating disorders all his life. For me it was difficult because it meant digging into areas that I had never talked about publicly. Of course the experience of sharing what she had was a bit embarrassing, but ultimately liberating because so many women saw their own experiences and feelings. This is just proof that these disorders are often lived alone, so when you make them public, you illuminate them.
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Had you thought of Rose Byrne for the leading role?
Apple was the one who brought Rose for the role of Sheila, I had not dared to dream that she could play this character. But when she read the script and responded, she was so excited. She is extraordinary, she is not afraid, she is funny, dark, very grounded, she adapts, it seems that she did not make an effort.
Filming. Weisman giving guidelines to Rose Byrne (Sheila). Photo: diffusion
It has been linked to narratives about housewives. Is there any need to talk about empowerment from here?
In fact, I find it interesting to explore how we women survive in the world and the circumstances and what resources we have, the things that we keep in difficult and dangerous environments that are not designed for us. I like to explore the unique ways that women find unexpected resources, in unexpected places, in community, with each other. In this story, it is through a truly unexpected world that Sheila finds her salvation. She finds that by embracing things that were previously unattractive to her, like bulging muscles, and some new ideals, she finds power and self-acceptance. These trips give you back a lot and give you strength to continue.
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What appeal do you find in black comedy?
I think it’s a really fun challenge to use comedy as a vehicle to talk about dark things, to channel a person’s ideas and just blurt them out like that. And talk about these topics that can continue to be a taboo, such as portraying the life of a woman of her age, her internal rage and her anger.
Like Sheila, has Annie felt insecure about achieving her dreams?
Going into the industry I felt like there was a lot less female representation than there is now. Today there are incredible women who are an example, behind the scenes and in front of the cameras. I feel lucky to be in a place where I no longer feel scared, to make decisions and follow my ambitions. I feel very lucky to have all of that.
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