Oscar-winning actress Jessica Chastain has expressed her interest in a potential sequel to the 2011 film ‘The Help’. Chastain portrayed the character of Celia Foote in the movie and wishes to further explore the relationship between her character and Octavia Spencer’s Minny.
The original film, based on the book by Kathryn Stockett, received criticism for its white savior narrative and oversimplification of the harsh realities of racism. Some of the actors involved have expressed regret for their participation.
In an interview with EW, Chastain revealed that she often reflects on the character of Celia and wishes she could play her again. She believes there is so much more to explore in the relationship between Celia and Minny, who end up living together and raising a baby as best friends.
Chastain stated, I just want to do something, Celia and Minny, and see what happened. How amazing would that film be? I loved her, and I got to be a bit silly.
While Chastain has portrayed various characters throughout her career, she feels particularly connected to Celia Foote. She described the role as a deep dive for her and expressed her desire to revisit the character.
‘The Help’, directed by Tate Taylor, tells the story of an aspiring young white journalist who writes a book from the perspective of two Black maids and the racism they face while working for white families. In the film, Celia forms a close friendship with her maid Minny, providing support to each other amidst turbulent marriages.
The movie boasted a stellar cast including Viola Davis, Emma Stone, Allison Janney, Bryce Dallas Howard, Sissy Spacek, Leslie Jordan, and Cicely Tyson.
It’s worth noting that Viola Davis, one of the lead actresses in the film, has distanced herself from the project, stating that it was created in the filter and the cesspool of systematic racism.
As of now, there is no confirmation regarding the development of a sequel to ‘The Help’. Jessica Chastain’s interest in revisiting her character Celia Foote highlights the impact the film had on her and the potential for further exploration of the story.
Fans of the original film and Chastain’s portrayal of Celia will eagerly await any updates on a possible sequel to ‘The Help’ that expands upon the relationship between Celia and Minny, offering a deeper exploration of their friendship and the issues of racism brought to light in the first film.
