Olga Volkova, best known for her role as Antonina Semyonovna in the beloved Russian sitcom 'Papiny Dochki', has recently opened up about her creative approach to dealing with personal grievances. During an engaging interview with Boris Korchevnikov, the actress revealed how she takes inspiration from her encounters with rude individuals, turning irritation and insults upside down by channeling them through her acting.
"I will play you, scoundrel. God grant only the role suits me," Volkova candidly expressed, explaining her process of transforming negative emotions stemming from harsh interactions with others. Instead of responding with hostility, she finds herself contemplating how to embody the essence of those who have wronged her within her performances.
This unconventional method fuels her performances, allowing her to convey authenticity and depth. For example, the character of the obstinate ophthalmologist from the film 'Privet, duralei!' emerged from one particularly unpleasant encounter during her son's medical examinations. Remembering the doctor's harsh words about her son, Volkova recalls, "The voice from deep: 'He is, what, underdeveloped?' I wanted to say, 'I am underdeveloped, I do not understand.'" These humorous, albeit painful, memories manifest on screen, changing her frustrations with rudeness to creative inspiration.
Reflecting on her interactions, Volkova shared the memory of visiting the clinic with her son Ivan. The doctor not only insulted her child but also made disparaging comments about Volkova herself, stating, "You are, madam, cross-eyed." Rather than wallow in indignation, she used this disheartening experience to build her character, leading to what would become memorable portrayals.
Volkova's process shines light on the unique ways artists can process and externalize personal experiences. While discussing the role of the ophthalmologist, she disclosed how her character stemmed from direct encounters with obstinate figures she hoped to capture on the screen. "You see some horrific situation, and I think: 'I will play you, scoundrel,'" she reiterated, underlining her commitment to using her art as her battleground for revenge.
With the third season of 'Papiny Dochki. Novye' airing on January 2, viewers are treated to renewed narratives filled with convoluted stories, including tensions surrounding family dynamics and relationships. Volkova's continued success exemplifies how personal experiences can be transformed through art, breathing life and truth back to the characters she portrays.
This unique approach resonates well within the entertainment community and offers insight to aspiring actors on how to derive inspiration from even the most mundane troubles of daily life, lifting the curtain on what it means to truly live through one’s art.
Each role gives Volkova the chance to confront her past encounters, turning them on their head and allowing audiences to witness the absurdity of humanity's interaction. It sheds light on how even the harshest criticisms can fuel creativity, encouraging others to find their own voice through the experiences of others.
Overall, Olga Volkova’s refreshing take on revenge serves as not only an instructive lesson on forgiveness but also as inspiration for transforming personal grievances through artistry. The emotional depth she brings to her roles transcends mere performance; it is rooted deeply within the truths of her own life, presenting both laughter and authenticity.