Emmanuel Itier: What attracted you to be this mad, mad film with mad, mad scenes but is so much fun?

Monica Bellucci: Indeed. When I read that script, I was really wondering how the director was going to be able to deliver such a film! It’s such an intense ride, and the movie is made as if it was a comic book. But when I met Michael Davis, our director and who wrote the script, I was convinced he was able to deliver this film and put in motion his vision. Also, to play aside side Paul (Giamatti) and Clive Owen–such great actors–was a real privilege.

EI: Your character of this insane prostitute is totally nuts. Did you put something of you in creating her?

MB: No. Actually, this was how Michael wrote her. Let’s say that maybe I added an emotional dimension to her to make her more of a human being. I wanted to give her a sensitive edge, because what I like with this movie is that it’s not only an action movie, but there is a real human dimension to it. In this action ride, there is a space for actors to be able to play their part. Usually in an action movies, it’s hard for actors to be creative, but in this one this was possible.

EI: The movie is also about “communication” in extreme situations. Was that another point of interest for you?

MB: Yes, for sure it was interesting to explore the way these characters communicate with each other. Again, it’s rare that in an action movie there is room for character to develop a relationship, but in Shoot Them Up, this is what’s happening. Even if the “action genre” is respected, there is a good dosage of humanity. Also, I learned to read with comic books when I was young, so I really feel comfortable about being a character in this comic-driven picture.

EI: All the scenes are madder, one after another. Which scene was the most insane but also the most fun to shoot–the sex scene maybe?

MB: Yes, you’re right. When I read the love scene, I was blown away and I was really curious to find out how he was going to do it. I have to admit it’s really a funny scene, and I was so happily surprised with the result.

EI: How was it to shoot with the babies?

MB: Well, I know about babies since I have had babies. In a film, the babies are super protected and can’t shoot more than 15 minutes per day. Also, we are only shooting the scenes that are “quiet” with the babies, not the action scenes.

EI: Now that you have done several films in the USA, do you think the perception of you from the US industry has changed–that they not only see you as a beautiful and sexy woman but also as a talented actress?

MB: I never chose, really, to have an American career because I live in Europe, but I’m happily surprised about the proposals I get from America.

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