Marco Calvani on Finding His Voice in Tina Fey’s “The Four Seasons”

During the recent Cannes Film Festival, a vibrant tapestry of accents filled the air, but among them stood out a distinctively gleeful Italian voice: that of Marco Calvani. The longtime European playwright surprised audiences by landing a role in Tina Fey’s hit Netflix series, “The Four Seasons,” where he’s been busy showcasing his comedic chops alongside a star-studded cast, including Tina Fey and Colman Domingo.

A New Chapter in Acting

Calvani’s role in “The Four Seasons” marks a significant shift in his career. After a 15-year hiatus from acting, he embraced this opportunity with open arms. “This is a huge detour from what I thought my life and career would be,” Calvani reflects. “If you write, direct, produce and try to finance your plays, especially in Europe, it’s not that easy. I hadn’t found opportunities where I could really pour out all my heart.”

In “The Four Seasons,” Calvani plays Claude, a character that subverts expectations. Described as an emotional force rather than just comic relief, Claude stands out as a sincere character in a narrative landscape often dominated by cynicism. According to Calvani, “Claude isn’t just exuberant and loud; he’s also full of forgiveness,” which adds depth to both the character and the show. This vibrant dynamic is notably refreshing, especially as it offers a portrayal of healthy relationships between gay characters, a rarity in contemporary comedy.

The Power of Relationships and Character Dynamics

One of the highlights of Calvani’s performance is his chemistry with Colman Domingo, who plays Danny. Their modern gay relationship is portrayed with authenticity, devoid of dramatic conflict. Calvani points out that this representation is beautiful for several reasons: “We’re depicting an open relationship where that fact is not the conflict of their story.” This approach allows viewers from diverse backgrounds, including older straight audiences, to connect without controversy clouding the narrative.

In discussing the dynamics between Claude and Tina Fey’s character, Calvani mentions, “There’s opportunity for more to unfold with the two of them.” A subtle yet touching scene in the finale hints at a deeper connection between the characters, leaving the door open for future exploration in the show’s next season.

A Unique Voice in Comedy

Calvani’s comedic journey also includes a memorable performance of Shania Twain’s “You’re Still the One” during a vow renewal ceremony in the show. “You have no idea how much coverage we did on that scene,” he laughs. “It felt more like a concert than a backyard wedding ceremony.” His enthusiasm shines through, revealing the camaraderie and support that permeated the set, which Calvani describes as more like an indie film atmosphere than a typical studio production.

Reflecting on the experience, he credits Fey as a guiding force in navigating the comedic landscape, praising her sharpness and attention to detail. “She set a tone to be present, giving and generous.”

Looking Ahead: Hopes for Season 2

As the anticipation builds for Season 2 of “The Four Seasons,” Calvani is eager to see how his character evolves, particularly in the context of the group dynamics as they navigate new experiences, including parenthood. “It would also be cool to have some scenes with Ginny,” he shares, hinting at potential storylines that could further develop his character’s relationships within the ensemble.

Calvani’s journey from playwright to television actor reflects his versatility and desire for creative expression. With his newfound platform, he hopes to bring laughter and connection to audiences around the world, bridging cultures and experiences through the joy of comedy. As he so aptly puts it, “Every friend of mine who knows me closely knows I’m the joy of the party. ‘The Four Seasons’ has allowed me to express myself in a totally new way.”

“The Four Seasons” is not just a show; it’s an opportunity to explore love, relationships, and the complexities of life through a comedic lens. As viewers await Season 2, Marco Calvani is certainly a talent to watch.

For news about similar projects and updates on upcoming seasons, check out our articles on Tina Fey and Colman Domingo. Additionally, stay tuned for more insights into Netflix Originals and the evolving landscape of comedy in film and television.