IN CONVERSATION WITH JESSICA MCNAMEE
interview by JANA LETONJA
Australian actress Jessica McNamee returns to the global spotlight reprising her role as the iconic Sonya Blade in Mortal Kombat 2, the highly anticipated next chapter in the blockbuster video game franchise from Warner Bros. Known to audiences for major studio projects including The Meg, Battle of the Sexes, and CHiPs, Jessica continues to expand her range across action, thriller, and horror. With Mortal Kombat 2 arriving in theaters on 8th May, and additional upcoming projects including the spy thriller The Mark and Evil Dead Wrath, she is entering an exciting new chapter as one of the genre’s most compelling leading women.
shirt PENNY SAGE
skirt MARGARET HOWELL
Returning to play Sonya Blade is a big moment for fans. What excited you most about stepping back into the character?
Mortal Kombat wouldn't be what it is without Sonya Blade. She was the OG female fighter of the game. I like to think of her as the matriarch. She's got to keep all those guys in line. I was so excited to step back in the ring with everyone. Learning to fight has been a real joy, and I was excited to flex some more metaphorical and literal muscle.
How has Sonya evolved in this new chapter of the ‘Mortal Kombat’ story?
Her patience is tested even more in Mortal Kombat 2. First time around, she has to deal with Kano getting under her skin. And this time she has to drag a very defiant Johny Cage around Earth Realm and Outer World. And I think she is less reactive this time with the dead weight.
What can you tease about the story of this upcoming installment?
An interesting introduction to Sonya and Johnny Cage’s relationship.
trench coat NOUR HAMMOUR from MUSE BOUTIQUE
The franchise is known for its intense action and iconic fight sequences. What kind of physical preparation did the role require this time around?
I had an amazing trainer, Andrea Kinsky. I met her after the first Mortal Kombat, and she has been able to get me in fighting shape quick smart. Lots of heavy weight lifting and postural work.
You’ve built a strong career in action and genre films, from The Meg to Mortal Kombat. What draws you to these kinds of projects?
They're fun as hell. I love using my body and getting physical. Growing up, sports were another love of mine. Being able to combine the physical with the emotional really tickles me.
blazer and trousers CAMILLA AND MARC
How do you approach balancing the physical demands of action with the emotional side of a character?
One doesn't really exist without the other. So much of my initial character work starts with my body. I did amazing movement character work with Jean-Louis Rodrigue, who helped me really get into the physical side of the character. She is stoic and strong and in control. And once I found that in my body, I found the emotional side came quite easily. In terms of staying fit and in fighting shape, a lot of early mornings at the gym before work.
Do you find action roles empowering in a different way than more traditional dramatic roles?
I do. I get to absolutely destroy some real baddies. What is more empowering than that.
jacket LEVI’S
trousers PLAN C from MUSE
You’ll also appear in the spy thriller The Mark. What can you share about that project and the character you play?
I can't tell you much, or I'll ruin the plot. But let’s just say some of my training in Mortal Kombat 2 comes in handy.
You’re currently filming Evil Dead Wrath, part of one of horror’s most iconic franchises. What has that experience been like so far?
This has been one of the most fun and fulfilling jobs of my life. I have had so much fun. The director is just unreal, and the cast has been a dream. I get to do some truly unhinged things, stuff audiences wouldn't have seen me do before. And frankly, this character is iconic.
dress DE LA VALI from MUSE
earrings BULGARI
Looking back at your breakout role in the Australian series Packed to the Rafters, did you imagine your career would eventually lead to global action franchises?
You always dream. But I have had some seriously pinch-me moments this past year, and I've found myself reflecting on my younger self, and I truly can't believe how lucky I am.
shirt CAMILLA AND MARC
jeans LEVI’S
belt VINTAGE KAREN WALKER
earring 0.8 JEWELLERY BY PRIYA PATEL
Having worked internationally for many years, how do you stay connected to your Australian roots?
I get home a lot, it's a simple flight from LA. I see my family and friends every time. And they travel to see me. But more importantly, I have two very active WhatsApp chats with my two groups of friends from high school. We may as well be in the same city.
Outside of acting, what helps you recharge creatively between projects?
Spending time with my family and friends, traveling, taking a class of some sort, writing, and puzzling. I am a wizard when it comes to a good 1000-piece puzzle.
dress SHONA JOY
TEAM CREDITS:
talent JESSICA MCNAMEE
photography HOLLY SARAH BURGESS
styling DAN AHWA
makeup RAE SACHA
hair SARAH ALLSOP
photography assistant KATIE BEGBIE
hair assistant JOSHUA SCOTT
bts video TAARIKA ORANGE
editor TIMI LETONJA
editorial director and interview JANA LETONJA
