In a whole new character

MANILA, Philippines - “She is driven by her revenge,” describes Rose Byrne of her Damages’ character named Ellen Parsons. Testament to that are the last three episodes of the crime-thriller’s second season on AXN. It airs Monday nights at 10.

You cannot blame Ellen for her edgy, always-on-the-look-out attitude. Her boyfriend David, after all, was murdered in the initial season. As everyone suspects, Ellen is on a dark mission tracking down the real perpetrator.

“She is avenging his death,” continues Rose. “It is all rage and revenge. She is in a complicated place.”

Ellen is no longer the sweet, young lawyer. Televiewers see the bold side of her. She is definitely in a fighting stance this time.

“I would like to see Ellen opposite Patty (Hewes) in a courtroom,” shares Rose of her thoughts where Ellen could head off. “It will be a Frankenstein moment, a face-off.”

As AXN points out, the “bright, ambitious young protégé” thrust into the ruthless, back-stabbing world of high-stakes litigation has now become hardened and cynical. She is even entertaining the idea that her boss, Patty (Glenn Close), did attempt to wipe her out.

Indeed, Ellen’s life will be a roller coaster ride.

Part of the new changes is Wes Krulik played by Timothy Olyphant. This man is not designed to replace Ellen’s boyfriend in her heart. However, he will bring out the sensual side of Ellen. What transpires between them is “purely sexual things,” says Rose. Ellen is not looking for some love rebound.

The drama will remain to be treated in a flash back style, where two time frames overlap from one another. Rose thinks it is part of the show’s success and it makes the audience wonder and anticipate what will happen next.

What does Rose like about Ellen?

“I like her bravery,” answers the actress. “I want to take revenge but I’m not that type. I like her self-deficiency which is something I admire. She has a great wardrobe. And that I also envy.”

Is the latest season more intriguing and interesting than Season One?

“There will be more surprises,” assures Rose. “Ellen is in a whirlwind, traumatic situation. She is focused and moody. (What everybody will see) is the ugly side of Ellen. It’s a whole new character.”

Rose started acting in her native country Australia. She was first seen on the crime-comedy Two Hands with the late Heath Ledger. Recently, the actress starred with Nicolas Cage in Knowing. Her other movies Adam and The Tender Hook will be released soon.

Rose, who shuttles between London and Australia, has had her share of film festivals abroad. Her independent movie Just Buried graced the Toronto Film Festival two years ago. Cannes and New York film fests saw Rose as Duchesse de Polignac in Marie Antoinette.

Damages isn’t her only foray on the small screen. Rose shares the spotlight with Peter O’Toole and Dylan McDermott on Cassanova and The Tenants, respectively.

How is it working with Glenn for Damages?

She is a fascinating woman and a working colleague, Rose says.