Wanda Sykes Trades Laughter for Leather in Boxing Drama “Undercard”
LOS ANGELES (AP) – Wanda Sykes, known globally for her sharp comedic timing, steps into a dramatically different role in the sports film Undercard, released Friday. The film marks a departure for the actress, who says she needed convincing from director Tamika Miller that she could successfully navigate the serious tone of the project.
Sykes portrays Cheryl “No Mercy” Stewart, a boxing trainer grappling with personal demons as she guides her estranged son, played by Bentley Green, through the competitive world of boxing. The role required Sykes to shed her established comedic persona, a challenge she initially resisted.
“I’ve got a funny voice. I can make funny faces. People just expect that of me,” Sykes explained in a recent interview. “Tamika really had to convince me I could pull it off.”
Miller, who co-wrote the screenplay with Anita M. Cal, specifically envisioned Sykes for the part. She saw a parallel between Sykes’ success in a male-dominated field – comedy – and the struggles of a woman striving for respect in the male-dominated world of boxing.
“I thought of the field of comedy that she has been in… it was that kind of fearlessness that I wanted in this role,” Miller said.
The film delves into the complexities of No Mercy’s past, including a battle with alcoholism and the loss of custody of her daughter. One particularly challenging scene required Sykes to portray a relapse, a moment she approached with sensitivity and a desire to authentically represent the pain that can lead to such struggles.
“As much as she didn’t want to do it, the pain that she was feeling was just unbearable and she just needed to be numb for a while,” Sykes said. “I got a chance to figure out how to get past that moment when those things happen because it’s going to happen.”
Preparation for the role was extensive. Miller invited Sykes to Wild Card Boxing gym in Los Angeles, even before funding was secured, to begin training. Sykes dedicated years to learning the intricacies of boxing training, mastering techniques like mitt work.
Filming took place in Puerto Rico, presenting its own set of hurdles, including the intense heat. Despite the challenges, Sykes credits the dedicated crew and Miller’s leadership with maintaining a positive and productive atmosphere on set.
“The tone on set all stems down from the director… I want people to always… feel comfortable and at ease and that we’re all trying to get to the same place,” Miller stated.
While Undercard represents a significant shift for Sykes, she remains open to future dramatic roles, but emphasizes the importance of a compelling script and a director with a clear vision.
“I’m not going to pursue them but if they come my way and I like the script… why not?” Sykes said, adding with a smile, “When Tamika’s ready to do Undercard 2, let’s go.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gC18799mhok
