Recently I got to speak with Nadia Gray about Netflix’s ‘Bright. Bright is a big budget film starring Will Smith that is exclusive to the streaming service and we got a chance to catch up with the talented actress about her experiences on the film.
-What can you tell us about your character and how did you prepare for the role?
My character, Larika, is an elf in the Bright world. She’s a villainous member of the Inferni. They had me in fight training leading up to shooting the stunts, which was incredible. It was really all about the mind set. Being able to walk around with the attitude of someone that’s the wolf, not the sheep, was so helpful getting into character.
-What was working with the cast like? Do you have any special moments from filming you can share?
It was the best experience! The actors are just the best I’ve ever seen, and I’m grateful for how much I learned from everyone. There was a moment after I wrapped a very long day, that our director David, as a little gift to me, called me over to the other stage where Will was up on this massive rig shooting a scene. David let me stand by the monitor and just watch him work. It was such a great moment because I’ve mostly only worked on television and have definitely never seen a production remotely that big. It was wonderful to see how it’s done and how Will works. That was definitely one of my favorite moments.
-How would you compare the scope of the movie compared to past projects you have done?
Unrivaled! Hands down. Again, I’ve never seen anything quite like it. And the fact this epic blockbuster is all Netflix was so mind blowing. It kind of feels like making history.
-What can you tell us about the action in the film and how did you like working with it?
The action is so badass, I can’t wait for everyone to see! They’re probably my favorite scenes in the film. I was lucky to get even just a taste of it! It’s all I want to do now! In the film everyone is so hardcore, but I’ve got to say Alex Meraz is outrageously impressive. He’s does all of his own stunts seamlessly and it’s so much fun to watch him work.
-Did working with so much CGI cause any issues or adjustments for you?
Not at all! We worked on real sets, so everything was authentic shooting in the moment. The CGI work they did in post just took it over the top!
-How did you get into acting? Why did you want to pursue it?
It was always a dream of mine since I was very little. I don’t even remember how it started, I really think it was just my obsession with movies. I always wanted to be a part of that world. I moved to LA around 19, 20 years old and have been trying to keep my head down and work as much as possible. There’s a tiny place in your brain where you think, “oh I could get discovered tomorrow!”. Yeah, that’s definitely not a thing.
-What do you like to do in your free time?
It sounds so boring but I really love being home. I get my satisfaction and social fill from work and then I love coming home and being a completely savage, cooking, eating and being with my dogs.
-What do you look for when you consider a part?
I always look for moments where the female character isn’t just an accessory to the scene. I always want to be the one delivering the funny line, or the woman kicking ass instead of being saved. Every role is different and important to the story, but I really crave those moments of independence for a character.
Promoting the hell out of this movie that I’m so lucky and proud to be a part of until the point of exhaustion! Then after that, sky’s the limit.
Photos by Julio Duffoo
