Uma Thurman Reveals Whether She Prefers Playing the Villain or Good Person in Movies (Exclusive)

**Uma Thurman Shines as a Troubled Prodigy in ‘Pretty Lethal’ at SXSW Premiere**

Uma Thurman, the illustrious actress known for her captivating performances, recently graced the red carpet at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film & TV Festival, held in Austin, Texas, to unveil her latest film, ‘Pretty Lethal.’ The film, directed by Vicky Jewson, tells the chilling story of a reclusive former ballet prodigy who becomes entwined with a group of young dancers in an unsettling setting.

At the premiere on March 13, 2026, Thurman spoke candidly about her character, Devora Kasimer, who resides in a remote inn when a ballet troupe’s journey to a competition takes an unforeseen turn. As the narrative unfolds, Devora’s complex personality reveals shades of both danger and vulnerability. Thurman acknowledged the challenge of portraying characters that often embody conflicting traits. “I like to figure out some sort of essential motivation through understanding someone,” she remarked, emphasising that characters are seldom purely good or evil.

Thurman’s career is adorned with a formidable array of roles, particularly those that lean towards the darker spectrum. Her performances as the villainous Poison Ivy in 1997’s ‘Batman & Robin’ or the vengeful assassin in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Kill Bill’ series have undeniably marked her as a cinematic force. Although she often finds herself associated with nefarious characters, Thurman explained her approach to characterisation during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. “Characters are neither good nor bad very often,” she noted.

Jewson, who has garnered attention for her directorial work, praised Thurman’s unique ability to inhabit complex roles. “Uma is obviously an icon,” she stated. “She can play a villain like nobody else can. She has a wicked sense of humour, and she also brings empathy to the character, allowing audiences to stay with her even during the most absurd situations.”

While Thurman embraces her roles, she has expressed reservations about the violence often depicted in action films. In a subsequent interview with InStyle, she candidly stated, “Some people really like it; I don’t like it. My appreciation for action and violence stems from an artistic perspective. It’s reminiscent of witnessing a breathtaking dance performance.” This perspective informs her acting choices and the projects she elects to undertake.

In ‘Pretty Lethal,’ the interplay of artistry and tension is at the forefront, where movement and emotion serve as core thematic elements. As the ballet troupe finds themselves in Devora’s unsettling inn, the film explores themes of isolation, ambition, and the complexity of human nature. Audiences can anticipate a narrative steeped in psychological intrigue, revealing the profound struggles of an artist grappling with her dark past.

The film’s co-stars include Maddie Ziegler, Lana Condor, Avantika, Millicent Simmonds, and Iris Apatow, all contributing to the dynamic ensemble. As viewers follow the troupe’s harrowing experiences, the contrasting innocence of youth against the backdrop of Devora’s troubled existence promises a gripping cinematic experience.

‘Pretty Lethal’ is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, providing fans and new viewers alike an opportunity to delve into Thurman’s latest work. As she continues to tackle multifaceted roles, it is evident that Thurman remains committed to exploring the depth of human emotion through her characters, be they heroic or villainous.

As the film industry shifts and evolves, Uma Thurman’s contributions as an actress, particularly in complex roles, continue to resonate. With ‘Pretty Lethal,’ she reaffirmed her status not only as a star but also as a storyteller navigating the intricate landscape of character portrayal. The film stands as a testament to her enduring talent and a compelling narrative that blurs the lines of morality and artistry.