the plan here?” It was really funny, but I learned so much from both Brie and Teyonah, especially in terms of acting and finding different layers in a character. But our bond was really solidified during our training sessions. We had to take combat classes together, and we all got our butts kicked. I didn’t enjoy that part very much; I love watching action movies, but I don’t want to participate in them. But it was an amazing bonding experience, and we really got to know each other on a deeper level.
How does it feel to be a part of the comic book movie golden age? You’re playing a character who is so meaningful to so many people. It’s daunting, but it’s also amazing. I keep asking myself, “How did I, Iman Vellani, who was worried about their university degree last year end up here, making films that are going to change the world in some shape or form?” It’s an honor. It’s really humbling, and I just feel lucky to be a part of this golden age of superheroes. These films have such an impact on the world, and I hope that I can contribute in a meaningful way. Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel has already done that in the comic book realm, so I’m hoping to bring that same energy to the big screen.
Is there any particular element of the comic book character Kamala that you’re looking forward to exploring in future films or series? I really would love to explore Kamala’s background more, like her parents and her religion. We did that a little bit in the TV series, but I think there’s still so much more to unpack. She’s such a complex character, and I want to do justice to her background and her life story. And also, I’m excited to explore her relationship with superheroes beyond Captain Marvel. There’s so much potential there, and it feels like we’re just scratching the surface. I think there’s so much more that we can delve into, and I can’t wait to see where we take her storyline.
What’s the energy like on set when you’re making these big popcorn movies? It’s definitely high energy, but it’s also very collaborative. Everyone is so passionate about their work, and that energy is just contagious. I love the energy on set. People are excited to be there, and they’re excited about the work that they’re doing. Even during the long hours and difficult scenes, there’s still an incredible energy. It never feels like it’s just a job; it feels like we’re creating something really special. I hope that energy comes across on screen, because we all put so much of ourselves into it.
What do you hope audiences take away from The Marvels? I hope they take away a sense of empowerment. I hope they feel inspired, and I hope they see themselves represented on screen in a meaningful way. That’s always my goal, to make sure that everyone feels seen and heard. I hope they enjoy the movie, but more than that, I hope it leaves them feeling powerful and hopeful about the future. That’s what these movies are all about, after all. They’re about hope and strength, and I hope that’s what audiences feel when they watch The Marvels.
What do you hope to achieve with your performance in The Marvels? I hope to show everyone the depth and complexity of Kamala Khan. I want them to see her as a fully-formed character, with all of the challenges and triumphs that come with being a superhero. I hope they see her as a role model and an inspiration, just as she has been in the comic books. And I hope that my performance does justice to the character that so many people love. It’s a huge responsibility, but it’s one that I take very seriously. I just hope that audiences love Kamala as much as I do.
In conclusion, Iman Vellani’s journey as Kamala “Ms. Marvel” Khan in The Marvels has been nothing short of extraordinary. From being the MCU’s first mutant to sharing the screen with Brie Larson’s Captain Marvel, Vellani has brought depth and complexity to a character that has long been beloved in the comic books. And with future plans for Ms. Marvel in the MCU, it’s clear that Vellani’s impact will continue to be felt for years to come.