Rian Johnson and Natasha Lyonne are hard at work in the studio, putting the finishing touches on the Season 2 finale of their show “Poker Face.” However, their attention is momentarily diverted to the final cut of a magazine story they are featured in.
“It’s on you to edit,” Lyonne says in her signature dry, cigarette-crackled voice. “And I’m so sorry for that.”
When these two dynamic personalities are together, conversation flows effortlessly, touching on topics ranging from John Candy to fax machines, with little mention of their show. Lyonne even remarks on the dangers of fax machines at one point during the lively exchange.
“Poker Face” is a Peacock series that follows Charlie Cale, a detective with a keen sense for detecting lies, as she embarks on a road trip across America, encountering trouble and dodging the mob along the way. The show sticks to its format, starting each episode with a murder before Lyonne’s character enters the scene. Despite the grim subject matter, the show maintains a light-hearted tone and a commitment to its unique storytelling style.
Each episode of “Poker Face” is shot over 10 days, with a mix of soundstage and on-location shooting. Guest stars like Cynthia Erivo, John Mulaney, and Kumail Nanjiani make appearances in Season 2, adding to the show’s star-studded lineup.
Unlike traditional procedural shows, “Poker Face” avoids spending time in courthouses or police stations, focusing instead on humor and character development. The episodic nature of the show allows for a flexible viewing experience, with episodes able to be watched in any order.
The resistance to big narrative arcs sets “Poker Face” apart from other premium television shows, making it a unique and engaging watch. Lyonne praises the show for breaking traditional gender norms, allowing her character to exist without the pressure of settling down or finding a partner.
As Lyonne prepares to shift her focus to her feature directorial debut, titled “Uncanny Valley,” she reflects on the challenges of navigating Hollywood and the importance of staying true to her artistic vision. Johnson offers his advice on ignoring outside noise and focusing on creating art in a bubble.
For Lyonne, the journey to success has been a long and challenging one, marked by perseverance and dedication to her craft. As she continues to make her mark in the industry, she remains grateful for the opportunities that have come her way.
As the interview comes to a close, Lyonne playfully jumps from one topic to another, leaving the interviewer with a smile and a sense of admiration for her lively spirit. Good luck editing indeed.
