The Story ⚡
In Clarence Peters’ gritty series “Inside Life” now streaming on Netflix, seven featured actresses deliver powerful performances that bring depth and nuance to their characters.
To delve deeper into their creative process, we asked them to share their insights on one key aspect of their role.
How does your character’s narrative tap into the collective consciousness of women and marginalised communities, sparking resonance and empathy?
Tonia: It’s widely believed that women are supposed to be under general subjection but for a young girl, growing up in a household where she is constantly raped by her father, a person who is supposed to be her cover and protector, taking a drastic decision like committing murder was the only viable option to protecting her sister from suffering the same fate. If Itohan didn’t take the bulls by the horns to protect herself and her sister, nobody was going to.
What was the most visceral scene to shoot, and how did you navigate the emotional aftermath?
Gift: First of all, in all the scenes that I played, I ensured I gave my best! emotionally and mentally but the scene that stood out for me was when I was going to the auditions for a role and despite the fact the location of the audition was scary and lonely, it didn’t stop me from pushing and giving my best to it. Then waking up after being sedated in a ritualist den, getting raped countless times was very traumatising and sickening for me. I had to put myself in the character’s shoes as though it was my reality at the time which gave me the zest and vigour to act with so much passion, emotions and exactitude.
It made me realize in reality how people can be very ambitious to becoming successful in life and ensure they get a better life regardless of the glaring consequences of their actions.
What hidden history did you craft for your character to add depth and nuance to their portrayal?
Uzoamaka: I played the character Titi in this dark exposee thriller by Clarence Peters, a heavily burdened character with a backstory which wasn’t explored in this first season of the series. Titi is a young female who has had her fair share of harsh life realities, realities that have heavily influenced and affected her theories and way of life. Her survival instincts are her go-to persona. Nothing surprises her anymore. She makes it a point of duty to mask all forms of emotions as according to her “it is useless, makes one weak and doesn’t help anybody”. Prior discussions pre-production phase of this series with our director, Clarence Peters helped shape my translation of the character and influenced everything after that, her nuances, facial coordination, tone of speech, mannerisms with scene partners and so on.
How did Clarence Peters’ visionary direction shape your performance, and what unexpected insights did he bring to the table?
Chiamaka: I have worked with Clarence Peters for almost 10 years as a Dance artist and Choreographer and I can say for a fact that he is the most fantastic and authentic Director I know, he is one to make you feel very comfortable, talk you through and give you the chance to express yourself to the fullest.
When he cast me for “Inside Life” I was rest assured that I was in good hands, honestly, he was amazing and this made it easy for me to play Chiamaka with a lot of authenticity.
Knowing my original self to be someone who does not lift heavy weights, I won’t say I’m lazy though but my people say I am (laughs).
I never expected that I could carry that big bowl of water on my head, walk countless times on the street and even climb the stairs. I have never lived with an Aunt or Uncle who maltreated me, punished me or forced me to do things against my will, so playing Chiamaka who was very maltreated by her stepmother is a character I had to become. People keep asking me if I have been in that situation before, because of how I was able to embody the role. It is all thanks to Clarence Peters’ amazing directing skills and trust that I will deliver.
This has given me more insight into the fact that I can play any role and that I can do anything.
What iconic phrase or mantra did your character embody, and how did it become a defining aspect of their persona?
Scarlett Gomez: “My character embodied the mantra ‘Embrace the darkness within,’ which became a defining aspect of her persona. This phrase wasn’t just a reflection of her superpowers but a deep-seated acceptance of her traumatic past and the motives driving her actions. Her dark and wicked nature was a direct result of her internal struggles and the pain she endured, making her a complex and multifaceted character.
Going bald for the role was a significant and symbolic transformation. It wasn’t just a physical change but a profound shedding of my own identity to fully inhabit her world. This act of going bald represented the character’s willingness to strip away any remnants of vulnerability or humanity, embracing her dark powers and the persona that came with them. It was a visual and emotional commitment to ’embrace the darkness within.’
This mantra influenced every aspect of her life, from her relationships to her decisions. It was a constant reminder of her past and the strength she derived from it, driving her to navigate the thin line between heroism and villainy. Her journey was a testament to the power of embracing one’s true self, no matter how dark or painful it might be, and it was this depth that made her an unforgettable character.”
How did you “dissect” your character’s psyche to uncover their innermost motivations and conflicts?
Rachel: In a clime like ours where Gender violence is a big deal, it is very important to be a voice that preaches ‘Equality for all’
As New Madam, My motivation was the young women going through the same fate that I was dealt with, also having in mind that the show must go on, even if that meant taking out the Queen to achieve my aim.
Just like a game of chess, You have to take out the Queen for a clear path to CHECKMATE!
What personal experiences or emotions did you draw upon to infuse your character with authenticity and vulnerability?
Myra Justin: To infuse my character with authenticity and vulnerability, I drew upon intense emotions associated with trauma and resilience. Playing a 13-year-old girl who faced abuse from her stepfather and lacked support from her mother was incredibly challenging. As an underage girl, her emotions were a mix of confusion, fear, and betrayal, compounded by her naivety and innocence. These feelings of helplessness and isolation allowed me to portray her pain and struggle authentically.
Additionally, the character’s abduction by ritualists added another layer of complexity. Her youth and lack of worldly experience made the situation even more terrifying, amplifying her sense of being trapped and her desperate fight for survival. By channelling these raw emotions and experiences, I was able to bring a sense of realism to the character, making her story more impactful and relatable.
In Summary
The women of “Inside Life” have opened up their hearts and minds, sharing the struggles and triumphs that shaped their iconic performances. As we reflect on their words, we’re reminded that the true magic of storytelling lies not just in the narrative, but in the people who bring it to life.
See the series now streaming on Netflix and share your thoughts with us.
