For Novinky, the famous actress answered in the form of an interview given by the Czech film distributor, Bioscope. The video also contains interviews with other filmmakers, which were made as part of an international gathering. Journalists also interviewed director Martin Bourboulon, screenwriter or actor who plays the musketeer.

How well do you know the world of Alexandre Dumas, the author of book templates?

I read The Three Musketeers when I was in school, but I was heavily influenced by Lana Turner’s Milady in the George Sidney film adaptation. I love her sense of adventure and romantic style.

What was your reaction when you read the script by Alexandre de la Patellière and Matthieu Delaport?

I feel like they succeeded in fleshing out Milada’s character and moving her away from the traditional view of her. I got what I needed to understand why he was the way he was. And they also bring the musketeers to life in a way that is very different from the childlike appearance often seen in various adaptations. I feel their concept is at once modern, intertwined with humor, yet true to the spirit of Dumas.

How do you see Milady’s character? do you understand it?

In general opinion, it is ingrained in society that Milady is evil, mysterious, fearless, evil, and willing to do anything to get what she wants. In the second part of the film, we will find out why she became that immoral woman. It was this inner journey that we will see in the adaptation that convinced me to participate in this project. Madam is also a warrior. He was manly and skilled in the use of weapons like any man. She is a free, independent and modern heroine who is in charge of her destiny. I love her cheerfulness and ability to mock social conventions.

In The Three Musketeers saga, there are three main female characters – Madame, Constance, and Queen…

I like it very much. In our film, these women are less submissive than in the novel. All three are more developed on this adaptation.

How did you prepare for your role?

I have to practice the sword and dagger scene for two months. I first learned to ride horses with Mario Luraschi, then with experienced equestrian Margot Passefort, who worked with us and helped me to become less afraid of horses. I also took aikido lessons. All of this helped me discover the inner strength of the character. I really enjoy working with stuntmen. They were very patient with me because I was quite clumsy.

Another thing that really helped me was the fantastic costume designed by Thierry Delettre. Thierry wanted us to feel that Madame travels a lot. He achieves this through the selection of certain materials and details, such as Eastern jewelry. She came up with the idea to wear Milady under a trouser dress, giving her a practical and modern “if she has to fight” dimension. And of course Milady is a chameleon, she is fun to play with.

However, Milady’s character is very multi-layered…

Madame is always unpredictable. He managed to surprise each time. I just hope that the audience will also be by his side and understand who he is. Playing a villain is always fun, and knowing why he does what he does makes it even more interesting.

Why is playing a negative character so much fun?

Because it’s usually impolite. Goon presses the chainsaw. It’s fun to play, it crosses the line because it’s so far from what you experience in everyday life. You allow yourself to go beyond, it’s liberating!

Did you do your voice acting for this film?

I try to use my low pitch and modulate my voice as Madame changes character. When she pretended to be Isabelle de Valcour, I raised my voice – she was more fragile, younger. When I speak English to the Duke of Buckingham, I change the pitch and modulation of my voice so he doesn’t recognize it. It’s a lot of fun because it’s not often you get to play multiple characters in the same movie.

How do you approach the period dialogue in the film?

Martin wants us to avoid declamation, to speak as simply and naturally as possible. I enjoyed working on the dialogues because I thought the language of that time was very beautiful. People speak very well!

Did filming in real exterior conditions inspire you?

It’s a luxury to film in real locations – in majestic castles and forests! It’s rare to see a production like this and it’s truly magical. When you step out in costume, your eyes will widen and you will need some help! Like in a fairy tale.

How was your experience working with Martin Bourboulon?

I had a few work sessions with Martin, where we went through individual scenes. I also discussed the script with François Civil because I had most of the scenes with him. Milada’s relationship with d’Artagnan is rocky – he tries to seduce her. He seems to have played less with it than the others. During filming, Martin had the whole film in mind and we believed him. It is very easy to be led by him.

How does it work with other actors?

Reading the script with François really helps because you tap into the energy of the other actors and gain confidence. François is a very professional and passionate actor. He is a good listener, instinctive and a perfectionist, which is contagious. He is also very humble and forthright. He is an amazing actor.

I had the advantage of knowing Vincent Cassel, and it helped because when I first appeared on set, I was acting out key scenes with him. Romain Duris and I both played on Arsene Lupin, but we only met briefly in this set. Éric Ruf who plays Richelieu has a lot of charisma and you immediately feel very comfortable in his presence. But Milady does not fulfill all the characters. He was often alone and friendless!

Is there a scene that sticks in your head?

I love shooting masquerade balls with lots of additions. The square is full of fire eaters, people in lots of pretty masks, and real musicians. It was filmed at the castle of Saint-Germain-en-Laye. Truly extraordinary. A truly magical and unforgettable moment.