As Julia Louis-Dreyfus recalls, the pitch for Daina O. Pusić’s feature directorial debut, ‘Tuesday’, was undeniably unique. While she can’t pinpoint every detail, one thing stood out: This is a super unusual film
. And indeed, it is. In this poignant narrative, Louis-Dreyfus stars as Zora, a single mother grappling with her daughter Tuesday’s terminal illness.
Tuesday (played by the award-winning Irish actor Lola Petticrew) has been sick for a while. Her world changes when Death arrives – portrayed not just any way but as a size-morphing talking macaw. This feathered manifestation of Death, animated with exquisite detail, is voiced by the multi-talented Arinzé Kene. The entrance of this fantastical bird catalyzes a series of unexpected events at their London flat.
The juxtaposition of the morbid theme with a colorful bird adds layers to the story. As directed by Pusić, the film masterfully balances tragedy and whimsy. Pusić daringly integrates animation and live-action to create scenes where Zora and Death grow both very large and small.
Reflecting on her role, Louis-Dreyfus said, I was looking for something… dramatic, and it came at the right time
. Her interest was piqued by themes of loss, grief, and the intricate dynamics of a parent-child relationship explored through Pusić’s storytelling. She continued, I needed to talk to Daina…to get a sense of her seriousness and her intention
.
Films from A24 have often ventured into emotionally resonant narratives, and ‘Tuesday’ is no exception. Renowned for its unique cinematic vision, A24 continues its legacy with Pusić’s direction presenting familiar yet fantastical elements.
A particular highlight involves the advanced visual effects used to bring Death to life as a complex CGI character. By animating over Kene’s physical performance, the filmmakers ensured that Death retained an authentic emotional core. According to Louis-Dreyfus: The animators animated over him and used his physicality… It made a world of difference
.
Pusić finds intimacy between Zora and Tuesday with remarkable assurance across various scenes. Their interactions feel real whether dealing with everyday matters or confronting surreal visits from Death. Louis-Dreyfus expressed: This movie required me to go to a place I have not gone before as an actor in such a big way
. Her dedication shines through every frame of ‘Tuesday’.
This film may sound unconventional, yet critics praised its bold storytelling, awarding particular commendation for blending fantasy elements with grounded reality. Identifying themes like compassion in unexpected places sets ‘Tuesday’ apart as deeply resonant.
Louis-Dreyfus isn’t new to touching narratives – having yearned for work challenging her creatively beyond comedic genius like in ‘Seinfeld’ or political satire in ‘Veep.’
The actress proves yet again her versatility: depicting characters who evoke empathy seamlessly transitioning between dramas & lighter roles!
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