"Prima Facie" played a role in shifting perspectives regarding sexual assault. A conversation between playwright Suzie Miller and actress Jodie Comer reflects on the play's reception and subsequent developments, including a novel adaptation and an upcoming film.
Following the play's London West End debut in 2022, a female producer approached Miller, expressing her connection to the script and revealing her status as one of the statistics representing sexually assaulted women in the UK. It takes courage for women to share their experiences without explicitly saying, 'I was raped.'
Comer, famous for playing Villanelle in "Killing Eve," played a crucial role in the play's success as Tessa, a defense lawyer confronting issues in the legal system after her sexual assault. The play's distinctiveness lies in being a one-woman show that humorously tackles sensitive topics.
The play's director, Justin Martin, suggested Comer to Miller for the role. Comer initially faced skepticism from Miller about taking on the role of Tessa due to her assumed Russian background on the TV show. However, once the misconception was cleared, Comer received the script during Britain's lockdown due to COVID-19 and found a personal connection to the character, driven by the fear and challenge inherent in portraying such a complex role.
Comer shared that she initially felt scared about taking on the role in "Prima Facie." She acknowledged that her initial inclination to decline the role would have been solely due to that fear. However, she believed she could handle the challenge and was intrigued by the process of reaching that confidence point. Her coping mechanism was to fully engage and immerse herself in the character, as shared by Martin.
The novelized version of "Prima Facie" allows Miller to delve deeper into Tessa's background, which the play only hinted at. It portrays her troubled childhood, family relationships, and encounters with snobbery.
Creating the audiobook required Comer to let go of the theater version and delve into the Tess portrayed in the book. While theater seeks expansion, audiobooks focus on pace and clear expression, offering a more intimate experience. Comer expressed feeling emotional throughout the audiobook recording.
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Despite the common trend of plays inspiring books, Miller reflected on her unconventional journey, publishing her debut novel at almost 60. With an extensive career transitioning from a scientist to a defense lawyer, Miller shared that she found her calling as a playwright.
"Prima Facie" draws inspiration from Miller's experiences as a lawyer and the stories shared by friends, family, and clients. Miller's work as a human rights lawyer, particularly with sexual assault survivors, exposed her to the lack of language to discuss uncomfortable date experiences. She handled numerous statements from survivors, noting the common shock and trauma associated with such incidents, often occurring within relationships or families.
Miller aimed to spotlight the legal system's shortcomings, especially the distressing cross-examinations faced by survivors in court, and advocated for change in addressing these issues. She perceives a community problem and a justice system that falls short of her expectations.
Miller and Comer discussed the societal impact of the play, especially its resonance with the #MeToo movement. The play sparked conversations, received testimonials from women worldwide, and prompted real-world changes, such as mandatory screenings for judges and police officers.
Miller and Comer advocated for the Schools Consent Project to educate young people about consent. The charity partnered with the play. Comer reflected on her own school experience, noting the limited sex education provided, often reduced to a brief VHS tape session.
Miller hoped the novel would empower women, creating an underground network where the book is shared among those who may find solace and strength in its narrative. Miller has also written a screenplay for a film adaptation, set to begin filming in London, featuring Cynthia Erivo as Tessa.
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