Sophie Nelisse

OF YELLOWJACKETS ON SHOWTIME

Q: What is it like to share the role of Shauna on “Yellowjackets” with Melanie Lynskey at different ages?

A: It’s hard, because we’re not shooting at the same time. We (younger actors) barely get to be on the set when the adults are there, so it is hard for me sometimes to know what Melanie is doing. I think (it’s about) just keeping Shauna’s personality and her spirit and her journey in mind. We did also talk about some personal stuff. I find that I relate to my character so much, in so many different ways. and I think adding some just personal details about our lives also helped a lot.

Q: Were you familiar with Melanie’s work before “Yellowjackets”?

A: I had not watched any of Melanie’s work. When I learned that I got the part, I watched a couple of things (of hers) on YouTube and such, and I remember being struck by how high-pitched her voice was. I was like, “There’s no way I can match that.” We actually don’t look similar at all, but I knew first how talented she was, and I was very honored to be able to play her younger self. I haven’t drawn anything from her other characters, because I think this character is so specific and unique. I think I was just more focused on just having conversations with her. We sat for coffee and discussed the character, just trying to be on the same page about her journey. I just tried to match more of what (Lynskey) was playing older.

Q: How was it to film the plane-crash sequence that largely set “Yellowjackets” in motion?

A: It was very interesting. We were in this plane, which felt very claustrophobic, and the plane was slightly tilted to the side. I think it was really helpful for us to be in an environment like that. It made it very realistic. Also, when we got there on the first day and saw how real it looked, it really helped us get into our characters’ bodies and motions.You felt very scared, to be honest.