Guy Pearce and Julia Savage Discuss “The Clearing” and Their Intrigue with Cult Psychology

Julia Savage: When it comes to playing Amy, there’s no set structure for portraying a character within a cult. I intentionally didn’t read the book until after filming, so I could approach the role with a fresh perspective and let Amy’s character develop organically in response to her surroundings. It’s a fascinating role because she’s at the forefront of the cult, the oldest girl, and carries a heavy burden of responsibility.

Exploring the psychology of cults and the complexities that weigh on Amy’s character is truly intriguing. She has to navigate taking care of the younger children in the cult while remaining obedient to the cult leader, played by Miranda. It’s a unique dynamic to see children in such a disturbing environment.

Guy Pearce: Cults are interesting because they exploit vulnerability, especially when it involves children and a mother figure. These kids need their mother, but there’s also abuse happening. They may feel conflicted, but they accept it because they believe it’s their only way to survive. It’s an incredibly dangerous situation, isn’t it?

Julia Savage: The children’s blindness to the outside world adds another layer of complexity. They endure horrible treatment, but it’s all they know. Playing that aspect was really interesting, especially working with young kids. We all worked together, and seeing everyone in wigs was quite surreal.

Guy Pearce: Watching the show, you can really sense how cut off they are from the outside world. It’s a damaging prospect in itself.

Julia Savage: It’s confronting.

Julia Savage: When it comes to Amy, I really wanted her character to find me. She carries a deep complexity due to her responsibilities and the daily stress and abuse she endures. Working with Miranda, who plays the mother figure to Amy, was eerie. Amy has immense pressure on her as the oldest girl and constantly being told she’s the chosen one by the cult leader, Miranda.

I didn’t want to overthink Amy’s character. Being in the situation, wearing the wig and costume, and being surrounded by the children in the cult, helped me discover the character naturally. I found myself adapting mannerisms and behaviors that aligned with Amy’s personality. It’s one of the most captivating characters I’ve ever portrayed because I truly felt like her during filming.

Guy Pearce: Speaking on behalf of the kids, it’s unsettling to see how they have no clue about the outside world. Miranda’s character, Matrea, is loving yet unpredictable. Everyone is constantly trying to please her, walking on eggshells. It’s a nerve-wracking position to be in. Interestingly, my character feels indebted to her because she was his student, and he had ideas about better ways to live. However, socially, he is quite inept.

The way she manipulates everyone, especially the children, is truly disturbing.

Julia Savage: Absolutely. The children’s blindness to their own abuse and their limited experience with the outside world adds another layer of complexity. It was a challenging yet rewarding experience working with young kids. We all worked together to bring these characters to life, and seeing everyone in wigs was surreal.

Guy Pearce: It’s a confronting reality.