In a recent interview, acclaimed actress Olivia Colman shared profound insights into her personal sense of gender identity, revealing that she has always perceived herself as "sort of nonbinary." This revelation connects deeply with her latest film, 'Jimpa,' where she portrays a mother whose nonbinary child embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Colman's statements offer a candid look into her experiences, resonating with many who grapple with traditional gender expectations. She expressed a feeling of being at ease within the queer community, where she finds stories of love and beauty, emphasizing her honor in being welcomed into this space.
Colman's upcoming film, 'Jimpa,' which premiered on February 6th, features her as Hannah, accompanying her nonbinary teenager, Frances (played by Aud Mason-Hyde), to Amsterdam. The trip involves a visit to Frances's grandfather, Jim, who has come out as gay. The plot unfolds as Frances expresses a desire to live with Jimpa for a year, prompting Hannah to re-evaluate her parenting methods and the narratives she has constructed about her family history. John Lithgow co-stars as Jim, adding another layer of depth to the family dynamics explored in the film.
During an interview with 'Them' alongside 'Jimpa' director Sophie Hyde, Colman elaborated on her strong personal connection to the film's themes. She explained that throughout her life, she has often found herself in discussions where she feels a nonbinary affinity. She described never feeling overwhelmingly feminine in her female identity, going so far as to tell her husband that she sees herself as a "gay man." This perspective, she noted, makes her feel comfortable and brings a sense of belonging, as if she has a foot in multiple worlds, a sentiment she believes many people share.
Director Sophie Hyde supported Colman's sentiments, highlighting the shared experience of navigating gendered expectations. Hyde pointed out that while individuals are socialized into specific gender roles, these roles don't always align with their inner sense of self. She further suggested that rigid gender binaries can be problematic for many, creating limitations and challenges in self-expression. Hyde observed that the concept of "womanhood" or "being a woman" does not universally fit everyone, leading to a sense of restriction for those who don't conform to these prescribed ideals.
Colman also acknowledged that men face similar limitations imposed by societal expectations. She shared that in her marriage, she and her husband alternate roles, sometimes one being the stronger partner, and at other times, needing gentle support. Colman firmly believes that every individual possesses a full spectrum of qualities. She noted that it is only recently, through interactions with individuals like Aud Mason-Hyde and their community, that she has realized she is not an anomaly in feeling nonbinary. This realization brought her immense joy and a sense of validation, reinforcing her belief that she is not alone in these feelings. She concluded that her choice of film projects often reflects stories that resonate deeply with her, as she aims to contribute to narratives that champion such understanding and acceptance.