Florence Pugh’s Daring Stunt and the Themes in ‘Thunderbolts’
A Daring Feat
Florence Pugh’s fearless approach to her craft is exemplified through a remarkable stunt she performed for Marvel’s new film, Thunderbolts. At the San Diego Comic-Con last summer, Pugh revealed she executed a breathtaking jump from the Merdeka, the world’s second tallest building, standing at 118 stories in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. While this stunt may have alarmed many, Pugh’s grandmother, affectionately known as “Granzo Pat,” expressed nothing but excitement following the London premiere of the film, stating, “Brilliant, darling. Very thrilling.”
A Shared Achievement
Adding “Guinness World Record holder” to her accolades, Pugh emphasized that this endeavor was not merely for personal recognition. “I wanted to do that stunt because I knew that it meant that we all got to do it,” she explained, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the film’s production. The stunt, conducted alongside seasoned Marvel coordinator Heidi Moneymaker and base jumper Katie Hansen, signified a collective achievement for the crew involved.
Exploring Deeper Themes
Set against the backdrop of action and adventure, Thunderbolts delves into profound themes of depression and shame—elements less commonly explored within the superhero genre. Pugh lauded Marvel for embracing this narrative direction, emphasizing the film’s focus on struggles that resonate with many viewers.
Character Development of Yelena Belova
Pugh portrays Yelena Belova, a character who embodies empathy and resilience amidst personal turmoil. “She’s always trying to help those who aren’t as strong,” Pugh remarked, noting Yelena’s efforts to connect with others, even when grappling with her own difficulties. This facet of the character allows audiences to witness her growth as she builds relationships and seeks out a sense of belonging.
Emphasizing Authenticity and Vulnerability
In a pivotal moment of the film, Yelena confronts her regrets, showcasing the emotional depth of her character. Pugh elaborated on this scene, stating, “Grief is a painful, embarrassing and horrible hole that you get stuck in.” She expressed that communication between the characters is vital, allowing for a cathartic release of pent-up emotions. The film skillfully balances intense dynamics between Yelena and her adopted father, Red Guardian, revealing their complex relationship.
Anticipating New Horizons
As Yelena’s narrative unfolds, Pugh looks forward to exploring her character’s evolution in future projects. “I hope that she’s happy now. I hope that she feels fulfilled, like she has purpose,” Pugh stated, expressing her desire to showcase a lighter, more vibrant side of Yelena in upcoming installments. With a roster of impressive co-stars and thrilling plotlines, the future seems bright for Pugh and her portrayal of Yelena Belova.