Karen Gillan Dives Deep into Action Heroics in ‘Gunpowder Milkshake
Karen Gillan has become synonymous with action-packed roles, whether she’s battling galactic threats in the Marvel Cinematic Universe or navigating treacherous jungles in the Jumanji series. However, her latest film, “Gunpowder Milkshake,” available for streaming on Netflix, sees her stepping into the shoes of a true action heroine like never before. Let’s explore with us!
Directed by Navot Papushado, “Gunpowder Milkshake” features Gillan as Sam, a skilled hitwoman whose life takes a dangerous turn when she becomes the target of her former employers. To survive, she must join forces with her estranged assassin mother (played by Lena Headey) and a trio of formidable librarians (Angela Bassett, Michelle Yeoh, and Carla Gugino).
In an exclusive interview with EW, Gillan shares insights into her experience as an action star and the challenges of bringing “Gunpowder Milkshake” to life.
Finding Inspiration in the Script:
Gillan reveals that she was immediately drawn to the film’s title and was captivated by the script’s originality. One particular action sequence, where her character fights off attackers without the use of her arms, sealed the deal for her. The creativity and inventiveness of the scene convinced her that she had to be a part of the project.
Balancing Tone and Action:
The film strikes a delicate balance between brutal action and lighthearted comedy, a tone that Gillan credits to the strength of the script and the direction of Papushado. While the action sequences were physically demanding, Gillan found joy in the challenge, viewing it as a culmination of her previous action roles.
Navigating Intense Fight Sequences:
Despite her experience with action scenes, Gillan admits that the film’s first fight sequence presented a significant challenge. The pressure was high to deliver a memorable performance, especially as her character’s fighting skills were hyped up by other characters. Gillan recounts the nerves and excitement of filming a demanding fight scene in a single take, without the aid of stunt doubles.
Bonding with Co-Stars:
Working alongside seasoned actors like Lena Headey, Angela Bassett, Michelle Yeoh, and Carla Gugino was a dream come true for Gillan. She describes the experience as both exhilarating and humbling, particularly cherishing moments where she had the opportunity to watch her co-stars showcase their talent on set.
Lessons Learned from Directing:
As someone who has ventured into directing and filmmaking, Gillan gained a deeper appreciation for the director’s vision and the importance of supporting it as an actor. Her experience behind the camera has enhanced her understanding of the filmmaking process and strengthened her empathy towards directors’ creative choices.
Reflecting on Future Projects:
Looking ahead, Gillan expresses excitement about reprising her role as Nebula in upcoming Marvel films. She teases the opportunity to explore Nebula’s character beyond her tumultuous relationship with Thanos and delve into the psychological aftermath of his demise.
“Gunpowder Milkshake” marks a significant milestone in Karen Gillan’s career, solidifying her status as a versatile and formidable action star. As she continues to challenge herself with complex and dynamic roles, audiences can expect to see her leaving an indelible mark on the world of action cinema.
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