Marianne Jean-Baptiste: Her angry, unpleasant and totally compelling character in Hard Truths

Q with Tom Power

The British actor Marianne Jean-Baptiste first worked with director Mike Leigh on his 1996 breakthrough “Secrets & Lies,” which earned her an Oscar nomination. Now, she’s reunited with him for his new comedy-drama, “Hard Truths.” In the film, Marianne gives an explosive performance as Pansy, a woman consumed by rage and depression, who regularly lashes out at family and strangers. Marianne joins Tom Power to talk about Mike’s unique directing process and what it took to build this character. Plus, she looks back on her long career on the stage.