Kaya Scodelario reflects on her career and new film ‘Adulthood’
Kaya Scodelario, known for her role as Effy Stonem in Skins, shares her thoughts on the misinterpretation of the mid-noughties cultural scene, recalling the chaotic experiences of that time. “So much,” she insists, her eyebrows raised. “I remember being in a foam rave in Nambucca on Holloway Road, which was like the indie mecca, and it was horrible! I nearly drowned. I got punched in the eye. It wasn’t fun!” reports BritPanorama.
Now 33 and living in north London with her two children, Scodelario finds herself reflecting on her past as she embraces her current role in the UK entertainment industry. After many years of living a transient lifestyle, she has recently finished filming the second season of The Gentlemen, a role that signals a resurgence in her career.
Transitioning between big-budget films and independent projects, Scodelario has taken on a diverse range of roles, including her latest character in the thriller Adulthood. In this film, directed by Alex Winter, she plays Meg, who, along with her brother Noah, discovers family secrets following their mother’s stroke while sorting through their childhood home. The reveal leads them on a tumultuous journey full of unexpected twists, encapsulating the essence of modern storytelling.
Adulthood merges elements of film noir with dark comedy, showcasing Scodelario’s ability to navigate complex emotions and narratives. “He really encouraged me to lean into my dry Britishness and my sarcasm,” Scodelario reflects on working with Gad, who plays her brother. The film’s blend of genres allowed Scodelario to explore her humorous side, a rarity in her previous work.
Scodelario speaks highly of Winter’s directorial capabilities, noting his serious approach despite the comedic nature of the project. “Weirdly, super serious guy,” she notes. “He knows exactly what he’s talking about.” Her interest in production also shines through as she expresses a desire to contribute to creating inclusive narratives that reflect society’s diversity.
Reflecting on her time in Skins, Scodelario acknowledges the show’s lasting impact on her career and on societal perceptions of young actors. She recalls that the casting team took a chance by selecting unknown talent and believes that the environment of discovery should be replicated. “The casting directors actively didn’t want to see us because we were the Skins kids,” she says, highlighting the challenges faced by many of her co-stars in shaking off their on-screen personas.
Despite the difficulties, Scodelario believes in the value of challenging roles. “I probably have been conditioned a little bit to work really, really hard and not complain,” she admits. This conditioning has shaped her approach to acting, where she often pursues complex characters that potentially push her beyond her limits.
As she reflects on her career evolution, Scodelario acknowledges the significant roles she’s played, including that of Susie in The Gentlemen. She feels a strong connection to the character, noting how much she appreciates playing a woman who knows her worth and embraces her strength. “I know who Susie is in and out,” she expresses passionately.
With the second season of The Gentlemen set to release in 2025, Scodelario is eager to reconnect with her character, anticipating the excitement of diving back into the complexities of Susie’s world. Her journey continues, with a determination to refuse traditional casting norms in favour of authentic representation.
‘Adulthood’ is on UK and Ireland digital platforms 17 November.
