With the release of “The Old Guard 2” on Netflix, star Charlize Theron is shedding light on the challenges faced by female-led action movies in Hollywood and sharing her personal experiences with stunt work. In a recent interview alongside co-star Uma Thurman, Theron expressed her frustration with the persistent gender disparity in the film industry, particularly regarding the opportunities for women in action roles.
Theron noted that studios are less inclined to finance films with female leads, especially when previous efforts don’t perform well at the box office. She highlighted the stark contrast in how male leads receive multiple chances, while women often find it harder to secure follow-up projects after a less-than-stellar performance. “It’s harder. That’s known,” Theron commented, underlining the systemic issues that female filmmakers and actors continue to navigate.
Reflecting on her personal career, Theron revealed that she has reduced her involvement in stunts due to past injuries that required multiple surgeries. She recalled the severe neck injury she sustained while filming “Aeon Flux,” which had lasting effects on her approach to action roles. “I have no desire to learn how to fall down a flight of stairs,” she humorously stated, signaling a shift in her perspective as she prioritizes her health over high-risk stunts.
In the interview, Theron also pointed to a positive development in the industry: the Oscars’ decision to introduce an Achievement in Stunt Design category in 2027. She emphasized the significance of stunt performers, saying they are crucial to the character-building process in action films. “Without them, there’s a lot of stuff that would never be in a movie that I’m in,” she remarked.
Uma Thurman, who returns to action with “The Old Guard 2” after two decades, echoed Theron’s sentiments, noting her pragmatic approach toward physicality in films.
The sequel to the 2020 hit “The Old Guard,” directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood and based on Greg Rucka’s comic series about immortal mercenaries, features Theron’s character, Andy, now facing new challenges as she is no longer immortal.
This ongoing discussion around female representation in action films is significant, as it shines a light on the need for change within Hollywood. With the increasing success of female-led projects, there is hope that more opportunities will emerge for women in action roles, creating a more diverse and inclusive cinematic landscape.