Medusa is both a contemporary and classical figure: Uma Thurman

Uma Thurman relives the experience of  portraying the mythological character of Medusa and training with snakes to prepare for the role.

What interested you about playing Medusa in this fantasy film?
Medusa is both a contemporary and classical figure. She has a very modern attitude and style, but her head is covered with the traditional vision of Medusa: writhing snakes, which will turn an unfortunate onlooker into stone. I found the character of Medusa very intriguing and I am also a huge fan of Chris Columbus. So this was like a good chance for me. Besides, the film is really cool and interesting in the way that some of its themes are relevant for us even today.”
 
Can you describe your look as Medusa?
I wear a long black leather sort of jacket slash cape and pants. I looked pretty ghastly when they cut my head off. It’s actually a rather scary sight.
 
How did you prepare for your role?
We did some training with real snakes to understand their movements and how they behave in certain situations. It was scary initially but pretty interesting too!
 
What do you think about young actor Logan Lerman?
I met Logan during the initial days when we were all preparing for the film. He is so hardworking and dedicated; I felt my heart going to this young guy. I was really impressed by his efforts and all that he put in to master his role. I think he’ll do really well in life with so much passion for his work.

Chris Columbus and many others who’ve worked with you praise your  beauty. What are your views about ‘beauty’?
It’s really nice when people say good things about you. But my mother always taught me not to get too attached to your beauty because it’s not yours to keep. Don’t go around thinking that it’s some big bonus and that you can count on it.
 
What are your other passions besides acting?
I absolutely love to travel and want to explore the world. I want to get back to learning French, see more theatre…..the list is very long!
 
Your forthcoming films?
I have a new film called Ceremony coming out sometime next year and I am going to make a film in England called Belle Ami.
 

—As told to Soumyadipta Banerjee