'I wanted to challenge myself' — Nomzamo Mbatha talks exploring thriller and sci-fi genres

From her first international breakout role in Eddie Murphy’s Coming 2 America to starring in the American thriller film Assassin, Nomzamo Mbatha has been making major moves.

Playing the role of Alexa in Assassin, premiering on Showmax on May 13, is exactly what she needed to explore the thriller and sci-fi genres.

“There’s a lot of emotion and heart involved. I  wanted to portray a complex character who also experiences surprise in the end. But more than anything, I wanted to challenge myself in a different genre, to add sci-fi thrillers to the list of films and projects I’ve accomplished.”

Playing such a complex character took several months of preparation, Nomzamo said.

“My character is trying to balance between grief and worrying about whether I have lost him forever.

“I had notes upon notes — every kind of note imaginable. It took me months of wanting to do my best. I’m very nervous because I get to be alongside Bruce Willis, someone who's had a career where he has done a great deal of action films and Hollywood blockbusters. I was very nervous, but once I started production the nerves vanished. I wasn’t nervous at all.”

She stars with award-winning actor Willis in his final film after he announced his retirement.

“I enjoyed working with him so much. He still has that amazing smirk — the Bruce Willis smirk. The biggest lesson I've learnt from him is the beauty of humility. That you can be the biggest star in the world but still greet everyone on set, just taking a moment to make people feel seen. It was beautiful to witness. It stuck with me that you lose nothing by being a global superstar but still have humility as your core.”

Nomzamo said having two Hollywood films under her belt has assured her she is on the right path.

“It’s  inspiring and affirming in that you are on the right path and the universe is saying yes to your dreams. I’m someone who doesn’t sweat the small steps and the small wins.

“I always feel things are moving forward and everything is a building block. That’s a beautiful thing about being South African and being celebrated for achievements, not only in Hollywood, but also even on the South African stage. It’s that warm feeling, support and love.”

Having played many powerful female characters in her career, Nomzamo spoke of the women who've had an impact on who she is today. 

“Looking at the matriarchs in my family, I think of my grandmother, who has taught me everything I know about running my own race, humility and treating people well. I’ve always leaned into the female narrative, whether it's my peers, friends, family or people in the industry. 

“I look at those who were able to transform their careers from one narrative to another, such as Oprah Winfrey, and how they find different avenues to transform their brand and tap into various opportunities as businesswomen, creatives and voices of reason in the industry. I also look at women such as Angelina Jolie who have inspired my work with the UN and have also influenced my work as an actress and filmmaker.”