Emilia Jones on ‘Task’ Role: Unrecognizable as Robbie’s Niece Amidst ‘CODA’ Fame

Emilia Jones’ Transformative Performance in ‘Task’ Finale: A Deep Dive

Emilia Jones, celebrated for her breakout role in the Oscar-winning film CODA, has once again captivated audiences with her transformative performance as Maeve, the angsty niece of Robbie (played by Steve Buscemi) in the HBO crime drama Task. The recently concluded season finale, which aired in 2025, showcased Jones’s ability to completely immerse herself in a character, so much so that many viewers, and even crew members, failed to recognize her from her previous acclaimed work.

Jones views this anonymity as a testament to her acting prowess, a sentiment echoed by critics and fans alike. Her portrayal of Maeve, a complex character navigating a tumultuous family life intertwined with criminal undertakings, stands in stark contrast to her gentle, hearing-impaired character Ruby Rossi in CODA.

Embracing Maeve: A Departure from ‘CODA’

For Emilia Jones, the role of Maeve was a deliberate step to challenge herself and demonstrate her versatility. “It’s a compliment when people don’t recognize me,” Jones stated, reflecting on the stark difference between her two prominent roles. The physical and emotional transformation into Maeve involved significant changes, including a distinct wardrobe, makeup, and a palpable shift in demeanor.

Her character, Maeve, is introduced early in Task, living with her father, who is Robbie’s brother. The narrative quickly establishes her as a pivotal figure, particularly after her father’s death. This event thrusts Maeve into Robbie’s care, creating a dynamic that drives much of the season’s emotional and plot development. The relationship between Maeve and Robbie is central to the series, exploring themes of family, loyalty, and the consequences of a life entangled in crime.

The Evolution of Maeve’s Character Arc

Throughout the season, Maeve grapples with the loss of her father and her burgeoning understanding of her uncle’s criminal enterprise. Her journey is marked by a growing sense of agency and a desire to forge her own path, often clashing with Robbie’s protective instincts and the dangerous realities of their world. Jones’s portrayal captures Maeve’s internal conflict and external defiance with remarkable depth.

One of the most poignant aspects of Maeve’s arc is her relationship with her father’s killer, which she discovers during the series. This revelation fuels her desire for revenge, leading her to make a significant and morally ambiguous decision in the finale. The complexity of her choices and their repercussions are handled with nuance by Jones, showcasing her ability to convey profound emotional turmoil.

The Finale’s Impact: Maeve’s Defining Moment

The season finale of Task culminates in a dramatic confrontation where Maeve takes matters into her own hands. Faced with the man responsible for her father’s death, she ultimately chooses to kill him. This act is a turning point for her character, solidifying her commitment to a path that aligns with, yet also challenges, Robbie’s world. “It was a really important moment for her,” Jones commented on Maeve’s decision, emphasizing the character’s agency and the weight of her actions.

The scene was meticulously crafted, with Jones working closely with director Nick Stoller to ensure its emotional impact. The decision for Maeve to use a knife, rather than a gun, was a deliberate choice to make the act feel more personal and visceral. “We wanted it to feel more personal, more like a fight,” Jones explained, highlighting the collaborative effort in shaping such a critical moment.

Working Alongside Industry Veterans

Working with seasoned actors like Steve Buscemi and Michael Stuhlbarg provided Jones with invaluable experience. She described Buscemi as “the kindest, most generous actor,” praising his ability to make her feel comfortable and supported on set. The dynamic between Jones and Buscemi, both on and off-screen, contributed significantly to the believable and compelling relationship between Maeve and Robbie.

Jones also shared insights into her preparation process, which included extensive research into the criminal underworld and the emotional toll it takes on individuals. This dedication to understanding her character’s world allowed her to deliver a performance that felt authentic and deeply resonant.

Key Takeaways

• Emilia Jones’s role as Maeve in HBO’s Task showcased her incredible versatility, making her almost unrecognizable from her CODA character.
• Maeve’s character arc in Task explores themes of grief, revenge, and agency within a criminal family dynamic.
• The season finale saw Maeve make a pivotal, morally complex decision by killing her father’s murderer.
• Jones collaborated closely with the director to ensure the emotional authenticity of the finale’s climactic scene.
• Working with experienced actors like Steve Buscemi provided a supportive and enriching environment for Jones.

Conclusion

Emilia Jones’s performance in Task solidifies her position as a formidable talent capable of profound character transformations. Her ability to shed the skin of Ruby Rossi and fully embody the complex, vengeful Maeve is a testament to her dedication and range as an actress. As Task concludes its impactful season, Jones leaves audiences eagerly anticipating her next move, confident in her capacity to continue delivering compelling and diverse performances. Her journey from the quiet strength of CODA to the fierce resolve of Task‘s Maeve underscores a promising career trajectory for the young star, demonstrating her commitment to challenging roles that resonate deeply with viewers.