The Marvel Cinematic Universe is constantly weaving in new threads and introducing fresh faces. One of the most anticipated additions to the MCU was Thunderbolts*— a film that explored a different side of heroism with a team of morally questionable characters who, despite their checkered pasts, always do the right thing. Among the exciting new talents joining this star-studded ensemble was Geraldine Viswanathan, who stepped into the role of Mel, the stressed-out and over-worked assistant to Julia Louis-Dreyfus’ Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. Viswanathan, a rising star, found herself in star-studded company, working alongside seasoned MCU veterans such as Sebastian Stan.
Videos by ComicBook.com
ComicBook recently had the exclusive opportunity to speak with Viswanathan, delving into her experience joining a global phenomenon of an established franchise and what it was like to collaborate with actors who have, for years, been integral to the MCU’s success.
Working With Experienced Actors Was an Invaluable Learning Opportunity
Coming into a universe as expansive and loved as the MCU can be a daunting prospect for any actor, let alone one playing a new character within a team primarily composed of established heroes (or anti-heroes). However, for Geraldine Viswanathan, this experience was largely positive and incredibly exciting. Her transition into the MCU was smooth, aided by both her character’s perspective and her castmastes generosity.
“It was really, really great,” Viswanathan shared with ComicBook, reflecting on her time on set. She specifically addressed the opportunity to work closely with Sebastian Stan, who reprised his role as Bucky Barnes— a character he has brought to life across multiple films and series since 2011. “Getting to do those scenes with Sebastian, who’s such a veteran of the world, and getting to watch him work, and throughout the whole press tour and everything, you really do learn a lot, and it was cool.”
Viswanathan’s experience was uniquely mirrored by her character, Mel, adding an additional layer of authenticity to her performance. “My perspective, as well as Mel was helpful because, you know, she’s also just sort of like fresh eyes in this world and like figuring out what’s going on, and that’s just exactly how I felt at every point.” The shared experience between actor and character allowed Viswanathan to approach her role with a natural curiosity, making Mel’s sense of discovery on screen come across as genuine, if not endearing.
Being Part of the MCU Means Being Able to Keep a Secret
The MCU’s fanbase is known for its speculation, deep dives into Easter Eggs, and impressive detective work when it comes to plot details and character arcs throughout films and Disney+ series. Keeping secrets is practically a prerequisite for any actor involved in a Marvel project. When asked if her veteran castmates offered any advice on keeping plot details of Thunderbolts* under wraps, Viswanathan admitted, “No, I could have used some advice on that. It was all just me and Julia (Louis-Dreyfus] being like ‘Wow.’ Just kind of trying so hard to not let things slip.”
Ultimately, for Viswanathan, the best learning experience came not from direct advice, but from “following [the] example” set by her costars on set. For a new star like Geraldine Viswanathan, stepping into the MCU with Thunderbolts* was not just a career milestone; it was an invaluable lesson in filmmaking, character development, and understanding and navigating the pressures that come along with being part of one of the world’s biggest franchises.
Thunderbolts* is now available on Digital and Disney+.
Want to stay up to date on the biggest geek entertainment news? Add us as a preferred source in Google – HERE.
Most Viewed
-
Image Courtesy of Ufotable -
Image Courtesy of Marvel Comics
