Florence Pugh Takes a Leap for ‘Thunderbolts’
Florence Pugh’s upcoming appearance in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film, Thunderbolts, showcases not only her acting prowess but also her remarkable commitment to performing her own stunts. The film, set for release on May 2, features Pugh as Yelena Belova, also known as Black Widow, who takes on a daring stunt that involves a freefall from the Merdeka 118 skyscraper in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Daring Stunt on a Historic Building
The Merdeka 118 is the second tallest building globally, standing at 118 stories high. Pugh was enthusiastic about the opportunity to perform the stunt—a leap from such a significant height—which reflects her adventurous spirit. Initially, there were concerns about the feasibility of this thrilling moment due to insurance complications. However, Pugh was not dissuaded.
Insistence on Performing Her Own Stunts
Pugh shared her determination during a recent interview with Fandango, revealing that she actively engaged in discussions with Marvel executives, including Kevin Feige, to make the stunt happen. “I got on all the emails,” she explained, noting that as production dates approached, the initial hesitance about the stunt grew stronger. Nonetheless, Pugh asserted, “I was like what the f**k? Of course we are. We have to do that.”
Pushing Boundaries for Authenticity
Pugh’s relentless campaigning led the production team to reconsider. “If you want to fall off the second tallest building in the world, we’ll figure that out for you,” she recalled being told. This persistence not only highlights her dedication but also underlines her role as a driving force behind the film’s promotion.
Facing the Reality of Heights
While Pugh expressed a comfort with heights, she admitted that executing the stunt was an entirely different experience. Reflecting on the day of the jump, she said, “The mental control I had to do that day… that was its own superpower.” The intensity of the moment led to her needing to recuperate afterwards. Co-star Julia Louis-Dreyfus revealed that Pugh took a three-hour nap following the stunt due to the mental drain it caused.
A New Era of Action
This leap may place Pugh in a league with actors known for their commitment to performing their own stunts, such as Tom Cruise. Just as Cruise famously scaled the Burj Khalifa for Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol, Pugh’s involvement in such a daring act redefines her remarkable capabilities in the action genre.
Conclusion
Florence Pugh’s bold approach in Thunderbolts not only reinforces her status as a formidable presence in the MCU but also exemplifies the lengths actors go to deliver authentic performances. While fans await her portrayal in this action-packed film, it’s clear that Pugh is ready to make her mark as an Avenger and beyond.