Scottish actor Karen Gillan has made a name for herself in successful blockbuster franchises such as "Guardians of the Galaxy" and "Jumanji", and the "Doctor Who" universe, and now she's set to enthrall audiences in a fresh light with her role in the thriller, "Sleeping Dogs". Playing the part of Laura, a brilliant researcher encased in enigma, she enlivens the character extending beyond the traditions of the femme fatale, crafting a persona that’s potentially a façade. Audiences find themselves questioning Laura's authenticity and motives, making her character an intriguing puzzle to solve.
A digital interview with Gillan shed light on her humble demeanor and easy-going sense of humor, despite being a widely recognized figure in the film industry. Her talent to seamlessly transition into different roles, be it an eccentric low-budget thriller or a massive hit like "Guardians of the Galaxy", showcases her versatility and adaptability.
When asked about the parallels between her character Laura and the quintessential femme fatale seen in noirs, Gillan stated that her initial understanding of Laura alluded to that direction, but as she delved deeper into Laura’s psyche, the notion changed. Gillan revealed that she molded Laura's character as somewhat theatrical, mimicking others whom she perceives as classy and intellectual. A touch of inspiration from accomplished actor Cate Blanchett and psychology professional Jordan Peterson shaped her portrayal of Laura.
Laura's character, an intelligent woman pretending to be something she's not, is an intriguing challenge loved by Gillan. She relished the ability to shift Laura’s persona based on the situation and person she interacted with. Gillan’s skill to adapt to American accents for her roles provides her with a valuable distance from her characters, allowing for a space of anonymity in public.
Reflecting on her personal journey, Gillan confessed to being an anxious individual during her youth with significant difficulties in maintaining eye contact and constant self-consciousness about her posture. Her foray into acting, however, provided her a portal of catharsis and freedom, allowing her to shed her inhibitions and anxieties, and feel more empowered.
Despite her humble perspective on her career, Gillan’s performances often have a magnetic effect, drawing audiences to her character. Her approach to character focuses on the emotional depth and complexity of the individual, regardless of the ensemble she’s in. This approach pushes her to draw from life experiences and deep research to better understand and portray her characters, such as Nebula from the Marvel universe.
Attributing the success of the "Guardians of the Galaxy" franchise, where she starred, to director James Gunn, Gillan praised him as a brilliant writer and filmmaker. Despite her fame and popularity, Gillan is appreciated by her fans and acquaintances for her down-to-earth nature, which she credits to her working-class background and the values instilled by her family.
