1923: Julia Schlaepfer Analyzes Alex’s Ellis Island Experience

One day, Julia Schlaepfer had to transform her 1923 character to be stronger than ever. In the third episode of the second season, Alex (played by Schlaepfer) faces a challenging journey to reach her husband Spencer (Brandon Skelnar) at the Dutton ranch in Montana. Upon her arrival in the U.S., she is processed through Ellis Island alongside other immigrants, facing harsh medical exams and degrading treatment.

The intense scenes at Ellis Island were filmed back-to-back in just one day, with Schlaepfer diving deep into her character’s emotional journey. Creator and writer Taylor Sheridan crafted a unique episode that focused almost entirely on Alex, allowing viewers to see her resilience and spirit in the face of adversity.

As Schlaepfer dove into researching Ellis Island, she discovered the complex and often overlooked experiences of immigrants processed through the historical site. The episode shed light on the harsh realities faced by those seeking a new life in America, challenging Alex to find inner strength and determination.

Despite the challenges Alex faces, Schlaepfer believes that her character’s resilient spirit will carry her through the obstacles ahead. Each setback only fuels her determination to fight for what she wants and protect her family.

While the episode may have drawn comparisons to iconic moments in pop culture, such as the ending of Titanic, Schlaepfer’s portrayal of Alex’s journey is a unique and powerful narrative. As Alex faces new challenges and adversaries, viewers can expect to see her continued resilience and determination unfold in the episodes to come.

New episodes of 1923 are currently airing on Paramount+, with Season 1 also available for streaming. Join Alex on her journey as she navigates the complexities of the past while striving for a better future.