Sarah Booth – Three Pines

By starrymag | January 17, 2023

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) Please tease what is new this season on “Three Pines.”

 

A) “Three Pines” is based on Louise Penny’s award-winning mystery novels, which feature an array of quirky French-Canadian locals who are constantly embroiled in another whodunit. The eight episodes’ season will explore four of Penny’s novels and also introduce a brand-new overarching storyline focusing on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited Peoples (MMIWG2S).

 

Q) How was your character Yvette Nichol originally described to you?

 

A) When I first received the audition breakdown she was described as awkward, eager and accident prone. I did some research and realized that the” Yvette” in the books had a harder shell than my Yvette in the series. She was different. That gave me a lot of freedom to create a very dynamic character. The creators of the show wanted to bring a sense of “relief” to the heavy subject matter explored throughout the series. They guided and really encouraged me to explore and try different things as a performer. I was so lucky to have such a safe and creative environment to build this wonderful character.

 

Q) I’d be remiss if I didn’t ask about working alongside such talents like Alfred Molina, Rossif Sutherland and Ellie-Máijá Tailfeathers.

 

A) I was so terrified when I found out Mr. Molina was cast as Gamache. That announcement elevated the whole project for me. He is a legend, and all three taught me so much. Alfred taught me not to take myself too seriously. He always has a sense of play and fun to him. And that’s important, especially when you are the lead on a series. Rossif Sutherland taught me to analyze the script and ask questions to get the best understanding of the scene possible. Elle-Maija showed me the power of stillness. Next to them felt like a complete imposter. But if you think about it, Yvette and I felt the same way!

 

Q) Yvette is fairly accident prone and you’re no stranger to stunt work. What have been some of your favorite or most challenging moments from filming?

 

A) Hands down handcuffing people while delivering dialogue. Oh man. I have so much respect for anyone who has to do that on screen and look slick. At least Yvette doesn’t have to look very cool doing it. It kind of works for this character.

 

Q) What are some episodes this season you are excited for fans to get to watch?

 

A) Each murder takes place over two episodes and all four are so unique. I’m most excited for the viewers to experience the incredible landscape and snow-covered village in the first two episodes. Episodes 3 and 4 are focused on the history of residential schools and the impact on the Indigenous community. The episodes are incredibly powerful and are also directed by Mohawk director Tracey Deer.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. What kind of fan response have you been receiving to the episodes so far this season?

 

A) The response has been overwhelmingly positive! I have had an avalanche of messages from old friends, strangers, family – you name it! It’s been great to reconnect with so many wonderful people. My body of work has been mainly dramatic performances and having the world “discover” me in this more comedic role and then watching my other projects has been a treat to experience.

 

Q) Going into next season are you looking forward to or hoping to share more scenes with someone(s) in particular?

 

A) Fingers crossed for Season 2! But if we do, I would love to hang out with the town’s folk. They are all such incredible actors and have created very interesting characters to watch. I think Yvette would have a blast with them. Ruth (Clare Coulter) in particular!

 

Q) What do you think it is about “Three Pines” that continues to make it such a fan favorite series?

 

A) Watching the audience discover the crossover between the books and the Prime series has been delightful. Prime viewers are picking up the books and book fans are diving into the series. There are eighteen books total in the Gamache series, so we have plenty of material and the established fan base has been so supportive!

 

Q) What are the other projects you have been busy working on lately?

 

A) Keep an eye out for me on more episodes of “Murdoch Mysteries” on the CBC. If people reading haven’t watched Last Call then should! It’s a one take feature film – that’s right, no cuts – that you can find on Prime US or YouTube (MovieCentral). The film itself is a huge accomplishment and my performance won me many awards around the world. Readers be warned that the film deals with suicide and may be triggering for some.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of the work you do?

 

A) Thank you for watching. Honestly, without an audience I can’t do what I love most. Thank you for the messages, sharing my independent projects, buying movie tickets, watching my guest spots, following me on Instagram… all those things. Thank you. And hey while we ‘re talking about it… follow me @sarahfilmbooth