Emma Corrin proves that you don’t need rippling muscles or a martial arts black belt to make an impact in the Marvel universe. Instead, all it takes is a shiny bald head and a set of unnervingly creepy fingers to be the next big supervillain.
In the upcoming film "Deadpool & Wolverine," Corrin, who won a Golden Globe for their role as Princess Diana in "The Crown," takes on the role of Cassandra Nova, a formidable telepath who sends shivers down the spine of Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool and Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine. As Cassandra Nova, Corrin brings a chilling presence to the screen, quite literally digging into the heroes' minds with her unsettling fingers.
The plot thickens when Deadpool and Wolverine find themselves banished to the Void—a desolate purgatory where Cassandra reigns supreme with her loyal henchmen. It’s a nightmarish realm that poses a significant challenge for the heroes, who must navigate this hellish landscape and confront Cassandra if they hope to escape.
The Appeal of Playing Evil
After portraying the beloved Princess Diana and the sharp-witted hacker/detective Darby Hart in "A Murder at the End of the World," Corrin relished the chance to explore the darker side of the spectrum. “The twinkle in her eye and the way she casually destroys people—it’s really fun,” Corrin says with a hint of delight. The role of Cassandra Nova offers Corrin a refreshing departure from their previous characters, allowing them to dive into a role that’s as sinister as it is captivating. Corrin, who identifies as nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns, found a unique thrill in embracing this malevolent character.
Cassandra Nova’s MCU debut is highly anticipated, especially given her connection to a legendary character from Fox's Marvel films. In the comics and the film, Cassandra is the twin sister of Charles Xavier, also known as Professor X, a role famously portrayed by Patrick Stewart and James McAvoy. Like her brother, Cassandra is an Omega-level mutant, which means she has extraordinary powers that can be both terrifying and awe-inspiring. She has the ability to tear someone apart with a mere thought, a power that makes her a formidable adversary.
A Unique Villain
Director Shawn Levy has been particularly intrigued by Cassandra’s complex relationship with her sibling. “Her issues with the world and her brother create a fascinating dynamic, especially in relation to Wolverine,” Levy explains. Cassandra’s resentment and her understanding of the special bond between Wolverine and Professor X provide rich storytelling potential. This tension adds depth to her character and creates a compelling narrative thread throughout the film.
Corrin was the perfect choice for the role due to their versatility as an actor. Levy appreciates how Corrin can seamlessly shift from charming and witty to dark and menacing, which is crucial for portraying Cassandra Nova. “Emma brings a fluidity and unpredictability to the role,” Levy notes. “Their ability to convey both the charm and the darkness of the character adds a unique layer to the film.”
In contrast to the physically imposing presence of Wolverine and Deadpool, Cassandra Nova’s power lies in her mental prowess rather than physicality. “She doesn’t need to be physically imposing to be effective,” Corrin says. “There’s a certain power in her calm demeanor. She’s relaxed and composed, and then suddenly, you see the full extent of her power, which can be quite refreshing.”
Training and Transformation
Initially, Corrin wondered if they would need to undergo rigorous training to prepare for the role. “I was ready to hit the gym, learn stunts, and master Taekwondo,” Corrin recalls. “But then they told me I only needed to focus on telepathy. I was surprised, but also excited about the challenge.” Corrin’s role doesn’t involve physical combat but relies heavily on their ability to convey the intensity of Cassandra’s mental powers.
To embody Cassandra Nova’s distinctive look, Corrin underwent a dramatic transformation. They sported a buzz cut and wore a bald cap to achieve the character’s signature appearance, reminiscent of Professor X. Additionally, prosthetic fingers were used to give Cassandra’s hands a more eerie and elongated appearance, enhancing her telepathic abilities.
Wearing the prosthetics was a challenge in itself. “I couldn’t use my phone or touch anything,” Corrin admits. “It was great for my screen time, but not so much for practical tasks like going to the bathroom. I always needed help because I couldn’t manage on my own.” Despite the difficulties, Corrin found the experience fascinating. “It was like a small taste of hell, but it was also really interesting.”
In Conclusion
Emma Corrin’s portrayal of Cassandra Nova in "Deadpool & Wolverine" marks an exciting new chapter in the Marvel universe. With a character that combines psychological terror with complex familial dynamics, Corrin brings a fresh and thrilling edge to the superhero genre. Their transformation into the bald, telepathic villain showcases their range as an actor and promises to deliver a captivating performance that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
Login