[This article includes significant spoilers for Novocaine.]
Amber Midthunder: From Predator to Novocaine Superstar
In 2022, Amber Midthunder captivated audiences with her ground-breaking portrayal of Naru, a Comanche warrior, in the prequel to the iconic Predator franchise, Prey. Following this remarkable role, Midthunder has been busily expanding her filmography, with two major theatrical releases hitting screens concurrently—Novocaine and Opus. Notably, Novocaine, co-directed by Dan Berk and Robert Olsen, is currently dominating the domestic box office.
Plot Summary and Character Dynamics
In Novocaine, Amber shares the screen with Jack Quaid, with whom she had long wanted to collaborate. Their connection traces back to their shared association with Prey‘s director, Dan Trachtenberg, who previously directed Quaid in the pilot of The Boys. The two actors exhibit an electrifying chemistry as their characters embark on an unexpected relationship. Midthunder portrays Sherry, a bank teller who initiates a lunch date with her co-worker Nate Caine, played by Quaid. During their date, Sherry and Nate reveal surprising personal truths—Nate’s inability to feel pain and Sherry’s overwhelming sensitivity to it.
Amidst the budding romance, a bank heist occurs, tragically taking Sherry hostage at the hands of Santa Claus-clad robbers. Seizing the moment, Nate decides to use his rare condition—congenital insensitivity to pain—to save Sherry, but the narrative shifts as she proves to be far more complex than a mere damsel in distress. “In films like this, female characters often lack depth and darkness,”Midthunder tells The Hollywood Reporter. “It’s refreshing to explore vulnerability in such a fun action setting.”
Midthunder’s Future with the Predator Franchise
As for her journey in the Predator universe, Midthunder is open to reprising her role as Naru. Following Prey, where alien ships ominously appeared in the Great Plains, there are speculations surrounding her future. Trachtenberg has reportedly filmed two sequels, including Predator: Badlands, alongside a currently undisclosed project, keeping fans eagerly awaiting news of Midthunder’s return.
When broached about potential future projects, a playful Midthunder responded with a smile and queried, “What are you even talking about?” Nevertheless, she expressed enthusiasm for her character, stating, “I’d love to return to Naru; I cherish that universe and my work with Dan.”
Insights on Novocaine’s Intriguing Twists
In a recent interview, Midthunder dissected the plot twists of Novocaine while reflecting on her experience in another of A24’s projects, Opus. Conversations naturally flowed toward the comedic yet insightful moments that overshadowed her and Quaid’s chemistry, especially during their courtside appearance at a Clippers game, which sparked curiosity and confusion among fans.
When discussing the symbolic cherry pie lunch, Midthunder amusingly declared, “Sherry is a pie-for-lunch type of girl.”This lighthearted quip highlights the character’s whimsical nature, contributing to her unique personality throughout the film.
Character Development and Audience Reactions
As filming progressed, both Midthunder and Quaid recognized the importance of crafting their characters’ initial bond, setting a solid foundation for the entire storyline. “We filmed our most intimate scenes first, which was nerve-wracking,” she elaborates, but the duo’s preparation in Cape Town allowed them to rehearse consistently leading up to their vital scenes.
As the plot unfolds, a major twist reveals Sherry’s deeper intentions, leading to a moral quandary. Midthunder candidly explained the discussions surrounding Sherry’s character arc, which reflects her emotional complexities and vulnerabilities. The duality of Sherry being charming yet darkly complex allowed audiences to connect with her conflicted journey.
After the pivotal twist, Midthunder successfully evokes empathy from the audience, maintaining a balance between vulnerability and resilience in Sherry’s character. “I was focused on her internal struggle rather than audience perception,” she reflected, emphasizing the depth of her character’s journey.
A Glimpse into Her Future Projects
Beyond Novocaine, Midthunder also stars in the A24 production, Opus, which provided a vibrant backdrop of familiar faces and artistic collaboration. The actress expressed her excitement at being part of such a talented ensemble, revealing her admiration for seasoned actors like John Malkovich and Juliette Lewis. “Even in a minor role, witnessing artistry unfold is a privilege,” she noted.
Midthunder may have captured the hearts of fans as Naru in Prey, but with her recent roles in Novocaine and Opus, she continues to showcase her versatility as an actress. As she reflects on her career, she humorously acknowledges, “I just can’t stop hanging out with monsters.”
Novocaine and Opus are currently playing in theaters.