George Miller, the creator of “Mad Max,” considered using de-aging technology to allow Charlize Theron to reprise her role as Imperator Furiosa in the prequel film “Furiosa.” However, he ultimately decided against it as he found the technology used in films like “The Irishman” and “Gemini Man” to be unconvincing. Instead, he cast Anya Taylor-Joy in the role of Furiosa, who he felt embodied the character’s natural skills and abilities to survive in the wasteland. Miller was impressed by Taylor-Joy’s performance in Edgar Wright’s film “Last Night in Soho” and her audition for the role.
In a Variety cover story on Taylor-Joy and “Furiosa,” premiering at Cannes Film Festival, Miller discussed the challenges of using de-aging technology and the advancements in effects tools in modern cinema. He noted the transition from analog celluloid to the digital era, highlighting his early use of digital effects in films like “Babe” and “Happy Feet.” The prequel “Furiosa” follows the character from the age of 10 to her late 20s, requiring an actress who could convincingly portray the evolution of the character.
Taylor-Joy, known for her role in Netflix’s “The Queen’s Gambit,” was eager to take on the challenge of portraying a character previously played by Theron. Miller praised her intuitive abilities and physical presence which he felt suited the role of Furiosa. The casting of Taylor-Joy allowed the production to avoid potential legal entanglements with Theron and Warner Bros, as Miller had been involved in a lawsuit with the studio over bonus payments related to “Fury Road.”
The set of “Furiosa” offered a more harmonious environment compared to the tension between Theron and Tom Hardy during the filming of “Fury Road.” Miller noted that the lack of on-set conflicts allowed the cast and crew to focus their energy on the work, resulting in a smoother production process. The director expressed pride in the collaborative effort on the film, highlighting the dedication and talent of the cast in bringing his vision to life.
“Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” is set to open in theaters on May 24, giving audiences a deeper look into the backstory of one of the series’ most iconic characters. Miller’s decision to cast Taylor-Joy as the new Furiosa reflects his belief in her abilities and potential to deliver a compelling performance. The prequel promises to continue the action-packed and visually stunning storytelling that fans have come to expect from the “Mad Max” franchise.
