Camilla Mendes on Becoming Teela in 'Masters of the Universe'

Camila Mendes plays Teela in the new movie "Masters of the Universe." Teela is the captain of the Royal Guard on the planet Eternia. This alien world is where the heroes He-Man and the villain Skeletor fight for control. The film mixes many different styles. It has science fiction, fantasy, comedy, and action. It also includes a lot of nostalgia for the 1980s. Teela must balance her role as a serious warrior with deep emotional connections to others.

Mendes explains that the character has a tough exterior. However, there is more to her. "Obviously, she is a very tough outer shell, but you get little glimpses of this, like inner sensitivity and empathetic side throughout," Mendes told Space.com. This balance makes Teela a complex and interesting character for audiences to watch.

Mendes found a way to connect with Teela’s dual nature. She focused on the relatable emotions behind the warrior’s mask. Mendes sees Teela as someone who had to grow up too quickly. "I see her very much as this parentified child, somebody who had to grow up really fast, really young, and she's had to take on so much responsibility and hasn't really had a break," Mendes said. She believes that many people today can relate to this feeling of carrying heavy responsibilities at a young age.

Some readers might call this "eldest daughter syndrome." The pain of this experience is clear in the film. Teela shows her softness and pain most clearly in her relationship with her father, Duncan. Duncan is played by Idris Elba. He used to be the captain of the Royal Guard. However, he later went down a darker path. This change has created tension between him and Teela.

"There's a bit of a strained relationship and a little bit of resentment," Mendes explained. This conflict adds depth to the story. It shows that even strong warriors have personal struggles. The film explores these emotional wounds through action and dialogue.

Teela’s relationship with Adam, also known as He-Man, is also important. The movie does not show them as a romantic couple. Instead, it shows them as childhood friends. They have known each other for a very long time, even across different lifetimes and planets. The film focuses on them slowly breaking down the awkward barriers between them. This approach highlights their deep bond without relying on romance.

Playing Teela was not Mendes’s first role in science fiction. She is famous for her role in the TV show "Riverdale." Many viewers might not think of "Riverdale" as a science fiction show. It is based on the "Archie" comic books, which are not sci-fi. However, the show includes many science fiction elements. It features time travel and alternate dimensions. It even includes a show-within-a-show called "Griffins & Gargoyles." This is a spinoff of the game Dungeons and Dragons. It includes flying creatures like griffins.

Despite her experience in "Riverdale," taking on the role of a warrior required new skills. Mendes had to prepare extensively for the physical demands of the part. She worked with a stunt double for the most dangerous scenes. However, she also underwent intense training to make her performance look authentic.

"The training process really felt like the perfect way to get into Teela's body," Mendes said. She explained that Teela herself had to train hard as a young girl to become a leader. Mendes felt that her own training helped her embody the character. "Through all the weight training and stunt training that I had to do, I felt like I was literally becoming Teela through that process."

This physical preparation was crucial for her performance. She did not just act like a warrior; she trained like one. This method helped her move and fight with confidence on screen. It allowed her to connect with Teela’s history of discipline and strength.

He-Man is not the only one who uses a sword in the film. Teela is highly skilled with weapons as well. Mendes had to learn how to handle various arms for her role.

"I had a lot of sword training," Mendes said. She added that she also had to practice with a rifle. "I had to do some rifle training because of her rifle staff." The rifle staff is a unique weapon that Teela uses in the story. Mendes practiced with these props until she felt comfortable. Holding the weapons helped her finalize her portrayal of the character.

"And when I finally got those props, that's when it really started to come together and come to life when I really got to hold her sword and hold her rifle staff," she said. She felt that the weapons became an extension of Teela herself. This connection helped Mendes deliver a more convincing performance. The physical tools allowed her to step fully into the warrior’s mindset.

The film "Masters of the Universe" is set to release in theaters worldwide. The release date is June 5. Audiences can look forward to seeing Mendes’s portrayal of Teela, a character who balances strength with vulnerability. Her preparation and insight into the role promise a dynamic and engaging performance. The movie aims to honor the classic 1980s source material while updating it for modern viewers. It combines action, humor, and heart to tell the story of Eternia.

Mendes’s dedication to the role is evident in every scene. Her ability to show Teela’s inner sensitivity alongside her combat skills makes the character feel real. The film explores themes of responsibility, family conflict, and friendship. These themes resonate with audiences who understand the pressures of growing up too fast. By connecting these universal feelings to a fantasy setting, the movie creates a deeper impact. It invites viewers to see Teela not just as a soldier, but as a person with a rich inner life.

The production team worked hard to create a world that feels both familiar and new. The visual effects bring Eternia to life. The costumes and props, like Teela’s rifle staff, add authenticity to the story. Mendes’s training ensured that these elements were used effectively. Her performance bridges the gap between the comic book origins and the live-action adaptation. Fans of the original series and new audiences alike can appreciate her work.

As the release date approaches, excitement is building. The blend of genres makes the film appealing to a wide range of viewers. It is not just an action movie. It is also a story about personal growth and relationships. Teela’s journey is central to this narrative. Her interactions with Duncan and Adam provide emotional weight to the larger conflict between good and evil. Mendes’s insights into the character help audiences understand Teela’s motivations. She is driven by a desire to protect her world and her family. This drive is clear in her actions and her training.

The film also highlights the importance of teamwork. Teela works closely with He-Man to save Eternia. Their partnership is built on trust and mutual respect. The movie shows that strength comes in many forms. It is not just about physical power. It is also about emotional resilience. Teela demonstrates this resilience throughout the story. She faces challenges with courage and determination. Her character arc is one of the highlights of the film.

Mendes’s performance is a key part of this success. Her portrayal of Teela is both strong and vulnerable. She captures the essence of the character while adding her own unique touch. This balance makes Teela a memorable figure in the "Masters of the Universe" franchise. The film promises to be an entertaining and emotional experience for everyone.