Following her captivating appearance at Lionsgate’s CinemaCon on Tuesday to promote her role in Ballerina, Ana de Armas made a noteworthy visit to the John Wick Experience in Las Vegas, an immersive 12,000-square-foot attraction inspired by the famous film franchise. The Oscar-nominated actress took the opportunity on Wednesday to engage with media about her upcoming film directed by Len Wiseman, which is set to hit theaters on June 6. During this event, The Hollywood Reporter interviewed her, resulting in a concise yet insightful four-question exchange.
Acknowledging the Action-Packed Sequences
Nice job on stage yesterday. That action scene from Ballerina was impressive!
“Thank you! All the action sequences in the film are quite extensive. We aimed to portray the protagonist’s overwhelming experience. It’s clear that she is unprepared for the chaos that unfolds around her, facing numerous assassins. We wanted to convey her struggle as she navigates through this vast, dangerous world while desperately searching for what she seeks.”
The Rigors of Preparation
It’s intriguing to hear this is your most challenging role. What aspects did you find most demanding physically?
“Every aspect was a challenge. The filming involved numerous exterior locations, and as I mentioned earlier, the action sequences are exceptionally lengthy. We needed the audience to feel my physicality in these scenes. To achieve that, I worked intensively with an exceptional stunt team who taught me essential fighting techniques and the importance of fluidity in my movements. Being adaptable was crucial since we often had to improvise based on the circumstances.
The preparation period of three-and-a-half to four months was vital for me to delve into the character, understand her personality, and develop her fighting style, which also integrated elements of ballet.”
Character Insights
How would you characterize the Ballerina?
“The day I saw him step onto the set in that iconic John Wick suit was unforgettable. It marked the first time after John Wick 4, and the atmosphere was electric. We filmed that scene over several days, revealing more layers to it than originally scripted. The complexity of the action sequences unfolded gradually, leading to some remarkable moments that enriched the narrative and set the stage for a powerful relationship.”