Jason Momoa: ‘I admire Vin Diesel’

Jason Momoa admired Vin Diesel for his efforts to maintain “Fast & Furious” for 20 years, inspiring the crew on set.

Actor Jason Momoa returns to the screen, playing the antagonist for the first time with the character Dante Reyes – son of Brazilian drug lord Hernan – in Fast X. On this occasion, the actor answered VnExpress about his experience participating in the movie.

– What are your feelings when joining ” Fast & Furious “?

– In nearly 10 years of pursuing an acting career, I have never played a villain. People didn’t believe I could play this type of character, nor did they give me the freedom to create the role. But I was given the opportunity to try my hand at Fast X. I presented to the producer how to portray Dante’s character and it was accepted.

I dedicate all my abilities and enthusiasm to Dante. I want to take on a character that both contributes to creating a happy atmosphere for the film and also confronts the character Dom (played by Vin Diesel) and his family. Playing Dante is like being a kid taken to a candy store, because Dante gets to drive four-wheeled supercars and motorbikes, and I have a passion for them. I’m excited to be a part of the final installment of a franchise as influential in pop culture as Fast & Furious .

– What did you prepare when playing the role of Dante?

– The conflict between Dante and Dom is complex, and Dante is much more dangerous than the opponents Dom faced in previous parts. The most difficult thing is how to show the audience the cunningness of this character. There were moments when it seemed like the two would rush into each other, but I had to deceive the audience so they wouldn’t guess what happened next.

I focus on costumes and props, because they are important in building the character. My costumes in the movie were designed by Sanja Milkovic Hays. I helped her choose the color of the clothes and some props like knives and guns. I want my character to wear clothes that show off her beauty, show off her muscles, and help affirm her charisma and personality.

In the motorbike driving scene in Rome (Italy), the road was very short, requiring me to process the scene quickly. Supporting actors and extras were everywhere, as I drove past the Vatican or rushed down the steps of the Spanish Steps. After completing the scenes, I wanted to do it again. These scenes are wonderful experiences, always imprinted in the mind.

Image of Jason Momoa as the main villain of part 10 of “Fast & Furious”. Photo: CGV

– Do you have any memorable memories when collaborating with the production crew?

– The best thing is working with a talented team. You just need to suggest an idea, they will make it come true. Louis Leterrier is in the top 5 best directors I have worked with. He gave me a lot of useful advice for work, but was also very strict.

I’m impressed with the female cast. Michelle Rodriguez is extremely friendly, I met her when the crew was filming in Italy. The way Charlize Theron acts sometimes overwhelms me, through every gesture and voice.

Portuguese actress Daniela Melchior devoted all her enthusiasm and focus to the role of Isabel Neves. The character Dante committed many sins against Isabel, so before filming, I talked with Melchior many times. She is always excited about filming scenes and enthusiastically supports everyone.

Jason Momoa (left) and Vin Diesel joke around on the set of “Fast & Furious 10”. Photo: Instagram Vin Diesel

– What about Vin Diesel ?

– In the movie, our characters have different directions. Dante hated Dom for causing his father’s death, then he determined to take revenge. Dom is an emotional person, and Dante is someone who receives a lot of love from his father. We had many debates on how to make the audience feel that they were both fighting for their family.

Vin Diesel has maintained responsibility for the series for the past 20 years. He’s as attached to the role of Dom as Sylvester Stallone is to the role of Rocky in the franchise of the same name. When recording, he always supported me throughout the recording time, making me feel enjoyable when he was with me. But just hearing the shout “Act!”, he quickly transformed into Dom, from his voice to his way of playing the role. At that time, I could only marvel in admiration.

Vin is always by our side, ensuring the best conditions for everyone. I was touched when he – the main actor and producer – repeatedly said his gratitude to the crew for making the work.

Working on Fast X was one of the most memorable experiences of my career.