Gal Gadot, the charismatic actress best known for embodying Wonder Woman on the big screen, is stepping into a new role that is raw, gritty, and decidedly unpolished. As she gears up for the release of the Netflix spy thriller “Heart of Stone,” Gadot shares insights into her character, her thoughts on AI, and the future of the iconic superhero franchise.
In “Heart of Stone,” Gadot’s character, Rachel Stone, takes center stage in a world of espionage, intrigue, and high-stakes action. Unlike her pristine Wonder Woman persona, Rachel is a fierce and unfiltered operative who doesn’t shy away from the physical toll her job takes. Gadot relished the opportunity to portray a character who embraces the messiness of her superspy life.
“She is raw and gritty, and it’s messy at times,” Gadot acknowledges. Her enthusiasm for diving into a role that challenges the conventional standards of beauty and perfection is palpable. “I want to show an unpolished woman who can go through the stress and come out of it essentially at the end of the day,” she adds.
“Heart of Stone” delves into Rachel’s world as a skilled operative for a secret international peacekeeping organization. When her life takes an unexpected turn due to the actions of a young hacker played by Alia Bhatt, Rachel finds herself embroiled in a high-stakes battle. The film’s captivating premise has the potential to launch a new franchise, with Gadot taking on the role of producer and developer alongside her husband, Jaron Varsano.
As Gadot immerses herself in this action-packed role, she also offers insights into her broader career. The actress reflects on her passion for the spy genre, which led her to develop “Heart of Stone.” Gadot’s inspiration harks back to classic spy series like Bond and “Mission: Impossible,” fueling her desire to embody a superspy onscreen. The success of the Wonder Woman series provided her with the confidence to venture into new territories and create a character-driven thriller.
In a compelling twist, Gadot delves into the topic of artificial intelligence (AI), a theme central to “Heart of Stone.” She acknowledges the rapid evolution of AI technology and the ethical implications it poses. Gadot highlights the importance of heeding warnings from experts like Sam Altman, the CEO of ChatGPT, who emphasizes the need for regulations and responsibility in the face of AI advancements.
Transitioning from one iconic role to another, Gadot teases the future of Wonder Woman. She reveals that DC Studios executives have assured her of a third “Wonder Woman” installment, bringing joy and anticipation to fans. Gadot’s enthusiasm and trust in the studio’s direction leave fans eager for what’s to come.
In a departure from her heroic roles, Gadot recently embraced her villainous side as the Evil Queen in Disney’s live-action “Snow White,” set to release on March 22. The experience of playing a baddie was a delightful departure from her usual roles, allowing her to explore theatricality and drama in a fresh way.
Gadot’s excitement and passion for her diverse roles shine through in every aspect of her conversation. From gritty superspy to iconic superhero and enigmatic villain, she proves that her range as an actress knows no bounds. As audiences gear up for the thrilling ride that “Heart of Stone” promises to be, they can also look forward to Gadot’s continued exploration of multifaceted characters that captivate and inspire.