Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal, two highly regarded actors, have reunited to star in Hulu’s first Spanish-language production, “La Máquina,” now streaming. The show tells the story of an aging boxer whose manager secures him one last chance at a comeback, but mysterious forces threaten their final shot at victory. Luna and García Bernal’s on-screen chemistry led the showrunner to improvise lines to capture their playful banter on set. The duo’s production company, El Corriente de Golfo, is also involved in the production.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Luna and García Bernal discuss how their characters in “La Máquina” explore themes of body image and aging from different perspectives. Luna’s character struggles with external validation, while García Bernal’s character faces the physical limitations of aging in a contact sport like boxing. The actors delve into the complexities of navigating these themes both on screen and in their personal lives as they age in the entertainment industry.
As actors constantly in front of the camera, Luna and García Bernal reflect on the privilege of their work evolving with time. They share how their personal experiences, such as becoming fathers, have enriched their ability to portray complex characters. The two friends also acknowledge the physical challenges that come with aging, like no longer being able to participate in activities like soccer due to the risk of injury. Their candid conversation highlights the intersection of their professional and personal lives as they navigate the aging process.
The narrative approach in “La Máquina” includes exploring the dangers journalists face in Mexico through Eiza González’s character. Luna emphasizes the importance of media representation in sports and how it impacts communities. The series also delves into the socio-political landscape of Mexico, shedding light on the challenges faced by journalists in the country. Luna and García Bernal use their platform as producers to address social injustices and advocate for storytelling that reflects the complexities of real-life issues.
García Bernal and Luna express their shared dedication to using cinema as a tool to highlight social issues and spark important conversations. They stress the importance of seeking out stories that shed light on the gray areas of society and promote understanding. Through their work as producers, they aim to engage audiences and provoke thought on various topics, including aging, body image, and social injustices. The duo’s collaborative approach to filmmaking prioritizes exploring diverse perspectives and challenging societal norms.
Diego Luna’s physical transformation for his role in “La Máquina” involved prosthetics to fully embody his character, Andy. Luna humorously recalls the final element that helped him get into character – the butt prosthetic. The actors reflect on the process of creating the character’s look and how it contributed to their overall portrayal on screen. Luna and García Bernal’s commitment to their roles showcases their dedication to storytelling and their willingness to undergo physical transformations to enhance their performances. Their candid conversation provides insight into the creative process behind their collaboration in the series.
