Ethan Herisse & Brandon Wilson Share Emotional Reactions After Watching Nickel Boys: “Hours of Reflection Followed by a Fist Bump”

Nickel Boys, rooted in the harsh realities of Jim Crow-era Florida, chronicles the lives of two Black teenagers, Elwood Curtis (portrayed by Ethan Herisse) and Turner (played by Brandon Wilson). These young men are confined within the oppressive walls of Nickel Academy, a notorious reformatory for boys. As they navigate the brutal environment, Turner shares insights on survival through a lens of cynicism, while Elwood steadfastly holds on to his faith in justice. Their bond brings a glimmer of hope in an era overrun by systemic racism and violence.

The on-screen dynamics between Ethan Herisse and Brandon Wilson elevate the film significantly. Their authentic chemistry is vital to the storytelling, ensuring that Nickel Boys resonates deeply with audiences. Notably, this project marks the debut feature film for both actors, hinting at promising careers ahead. Currently, the film is being screened in theaters across New York, with its Los Angeles premiere scheduled for December 20. The cast also features talents such as Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor and Daveed Diggs.

In a recent interview with ScreenRant, Herisse and Wilson discussed the unique filming style employed in Nickel Boys, which is adapted from a novel inspired by true events. They shared their experiences of watching the completed film for the first time and reflected on how their on-screen chemistry blossomed throughout the shooting process.

Ethan Herisse Hails the Personal Touch of POV Filming

“I know that after I watched it for the first time, I kind of fist-pumped. Like, yeah, it worked.”

Elwood staring at the camera in Nickel Boys

ScreenRant: The POV filming approach creates a deeply personal experience for viewers. Can you elaborate on the challenges encountered during this process?

Brandon Wilson: Our initiation into the filming style was quite sudden. We were aware that it was a POV setup, yet during our initial discussions, we didn’t fully grasp what it would entail until we began filming. I distinctly recall our first scene together, where Ethan was sitting on the grass near the camera operator. After completing that scene, it became clear to both of us that we had to explore these moments together beforehand, allowing us to genuinely engage with the lens, as this method required a unique authenticity.

Ethan Herisse: I genuinely appreciate how it turned out. We’ve been hearing feedback from audiences emphasizing how drawn they feel to the scenes and characters. It’s wonderful to know that our collaborative efforts, under the guidance of RaMell, resulted in such a compelling outcome. Watching the completed film for the first time was exhilarating; I found myself celebrating internally, realizing just how immersive the experience was for viewers.

ScreenRant: Brandon, what was your initial response after viewing the film?

Brandon Wilson: My reaction wasn’t quite as enthusiastic as a fist-pump immediately after viewing it.

Ethan Herisse: For me, it took a bit of contemplation before the fist bump followed.

Brandon Wilson: Just like Ethan mentioned, the experience was disorienting at first. I was surprised by the level of vulnerability it evoked in me. I had watched it in solitude, allowing for reflection in silence. My initial reaction gradually transformed, leading me to recognize it as a remarkably engaging film. The emotional impact hit me much harder upon a second viewing; it enabled me to immerse myself further into the narrative, resulting in that celebratory fist pump.

Natural Chemistry Between Brandon Wilson and Ethan Herisse

“While we were working together, our friendship was also growing.”

Elwood and Turner looking up at a reflective surface in Nickel Boys

ScreenRant: The authenticity of your chemistry is crucial for this film’s success. Can you discuss how it developed?

Brandon Wilson: Chemistry has a way of forming organically. Our initial chemistry read took place in LA, marking the first time Ethan and I met. The connection felt effortless, leading directors to question how long we had known each other. The ease between us was unmistakable.

Ethan Herisse: Following that reading, we had plenty of opportunities to bond while filming in New Orleans. We shared meals, frequented Waffle House, and watched movies together. This camaraderie enriched our performances, allowing the genuine development of Elwood and Turner’s friendship to unfold on screen, paralleling our growing connection off screen.

Additional Insights into Nickel Boys (2024)

Nickel Boys follows Elwood Curtis, whose aspirations for college are dashed by a misfortunate event, leading him to the harsh confines of Nickel Academy—a brutal institution that embodies the oppression of the Jim Crow South. It’s here that he meets Turner, a seasoned survivor of the reformatory. As Turner imparts critical survival strategies, Elwood’s unwavering optimism begins to reshape their perspectives, setting the stage for personal transformation amid the turbulent backdrop of the emerging Civil Rights Movement.

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

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