The weight of loneliness bears heavily on Carol Sturka, a character brought to life by Rhea Seehorn, in Vince Gilligan’s latest series, “Pluribus.” As the narrative unfolds, particularly evident in the seventh episode titled “The Gap,” Carol struggles to maintain her sanity amidst the profound isolation that ensues after a phenomenon known as The Joining. Following this event, her interactions with the Joined—who have distanced themselves from her due to the mental strain she allegedly causes—have dwindled to nothing. For over a month, Carol finds herself alone, relying solely on voice messages from the Joined for communication and the basic necessities of life.
Seehorn deftly portrays Carol’s descent into despair, conveying a deep sense of existential loneliness. As week after week passes without human contact, Carol desperately seeks connection, culminating in a poignant moment where she uses white paint to write “come back” in her cul-de-sac, an act of vulnerability that starkly illustrates her yearning for human connection. When Zosia finally returns to her, the sheer relief is palpable, as Carol collapses into her arms, embodying the crushing burden of solitude that has taken its toll.
In an interview, Rhea Seehorn expressed her relief at finally being able to discuss the show in depth, revealing the philosophical questions it raises while highlighting Gilligan’s unique storytelling. She reflected on her curiosity about audience perceptions and the reception of the show, noting the humor interwoven with profound psychological exploration. Seehorn emphasized that while she had some insight into her character’s arc, the writing process was organic, allowing for a natural development of Carol’s persona.
Discussing the challenges presented by her character’s isolation, Seehorn noted how crafting a performance in solitude still engaged the audience’s imagination, as she navigated the intricate emotional landscape presented in the script. She explained how her preparation and experiences melded with the direction to convey a compelling portrayal of loneliness, balancing body language with the narrative’s weight.
The interactions in the episode culminate in a significant wordless scene, carefully crafted by director Adam Bernstein. The impact of the moment underscores Carol’s breaking point, her emotional barriers crumbling as she shares a silent yet profound connection with Zosia. This moment of vulnerability showcases the journey Carol has traversed through isolation, reflecting the extent of her emotional turmoil.
As the first season progresses towards its finale on December 26, Seehorn hinted at intriguing developments while maintaining an air of mystery. She emphasized the show’s exploration of complex themes like happiness and contentment, leaving audiences eager to navigate the unfolding complexities of Carol’s story.
Overall, “Pluribus” not only highlights the challenges of human connection in a rapidly changing world but also serves as a meditation on the impacts of loneliness, leaving viewers to ponder deeper philosophical questions about existence and companionship.