Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor Emotional Insights on Her Role as Hattie in Nickel Boys

Exploring the Heartfelt Journey of Nickel Boys

Nickel Boys, adapted from Colson Whitehead’s acclaimed novel, narrates the harrowing experiences of two Black teenagers, Elwood Curtis and his friend Turner, confined within the harsh walls of Nickel Academy. The story poignantly portrays Elwood’s grandmother, Hattie, who fervently seeks to uncover the truth about her grandson’s plight, only to face constant resistance from the institution’s authorities.

In the film, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor brings Hattie to life with emotional depth and nuance. Ellis-Taylor is widely recognized for her performances in prominent films such as The Help, Ray, Undercover Brother, and Men of Honor. Currently, Nickel Boys is captivating audiences in New York theaters and is set to premiere in Los Angeles on December 20.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor Reflects on the Unique Shooting Experience

“It ends up being very expansive in how he trusts his actors and he trusted me.”

Hattie looking into the lens and smiling knowingly in Nickel Boys

ScreenRant: The point-of-view shooting is unique. What was your experience in helping RaMell bring this vision to life?

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor: I had no role in developing RaMell’s vision; that honor belongs entirely to him. I discovered the filming approach on my first day, which made it all the more surprising. RaMell’s choice to pursue such a technique could have limited the storytelling, but he managed to create a broader scope by instilling confidence in his actors. I felt that same trust, and I believe Ethan and Brandon share this sentiment.

Hattie and Turner: Kindred Spirits through Loneliness

“It was a love story, and the love of her life was not there anymore.”

A woman in a blue and white shirt staring at the camera in Nickel Boys

ScreenRant: In the powerful scene where Hattie visits Elwood but can only meet Turner, what thoughts cross her mind in that moment?

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor: Hattie feels an overwhelming sense of loneliness. Whenever I discuss this scene, I become quite emotional. Filming it was an intense experience. The weight of her losses and frustration is palpable as she attempts to connect with her grandson, who is separated by prison walls. This moment reflects a deeper love story; her beloved is physically present yet emotionally absent, and she is torn apart. Her instincts draw her to Turner, recognizing their shared isolation and connection.

Drawing from Personal Experience in Shaping Hattie’s Character

ScreenRant: Did your personal life influence how you portrayed Hattie?

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor: Upon reflection, I realize my grandmother’s influence resonates throughout my depiction of Hattie. I wasn’t conscious of it while filming, but I recognize now how her essence shaped my understanding of the character.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor’s Message to Viewers of Nickel Boys

“At the time that this was happening to them, they were children, and they had no one to be champions for them.”

ScreenRant: Given the film’s ongoing relevance, what do you hope audiences take away from Nickel Boys?

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor: My hope is that viewers become advocates for the voiceless children depicted in this story. This narrative unfolded in our communities, and we possess the power to prevent history from repeating itself. It’s crucial to remember these young individuals, who, despite growing up, were once defenseless children without champions to protect them. We can play that role now and ensure that their stories are heard.

Learn More About Nickel Boys (2024)

Elwood Curtis had dreamed of attending college, but that dream is abruptly shattered when he is wrongfully sentenced to Nickel Academy—an oppressive reformatory in the Jim Crow South—following a minor infraction. There, he forges an unlikely friendship with Turner, who has witnessed the grim realities of their environment. Together, they navigate survival amidst the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement. While Nickel’s harshness threatens to extinguish his humanity, Elwood battles to inspire hope in Turner.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HZKgYknVN0

Nickel Boys | Official Trailer 2 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HZKgYknVN0)

Stay tuned for more exclusive interviews from the Nickel Boys cast, including: