Elizabeth Olsen has firmly established herself as one of the most compelling figures in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) through her portrayal of Wanda Maximoff, the enigmatic Scarlet Witch. Her performance in “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” has garnered widespread acclaim, but behind the scenes, Olsen’s evolution into this iconic role was significantly shaped by an unexpected mentor—Scarlett Johansson. In an exclusive interview with InStyle, Olsen opens up about how Johansson’s guidance transformed her approach to playing a superhero.
Olsen’s journey into the MCU began with her introduction as Wanda Maximoff in “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” and she has since become a central figure in Marvel’s intricate narrative web. As the Scarlet Witch, Olsen portrays a character who is both extraordinarily powerful and deeply complex, dealing with a range of emotional and psychological challenges. For Olsen, stepping into this role required not just physical preparation but also a profound mental and emotional commitment. Fortunately, she had Scarlett Johansson to guide her through this demanding transition.
In her conversation with InStyle, Olsen reflects on the impact of Johansson’s mentorship, which began as a supportive friendship and evolved into a crucial professional relationship. Johansson, who has long been celebrated for her role as Natasha Romanoff (Black Widow), offered Olsen invaluable insights into the world of superheroes. “Scarlett was a rock for me during this entire process,” Olsen shares. “Her experience as Black Widow gave her a unique perspective on the challenges of playing such a powerful character.”
One of the most significant aspects of Johansson’s mentorship was her guidance on balancing the physical and emotional demands of the role. The Scarlet Witch’s powers are not just visually spectacular but also deeply psychological, involving complex emotional undertones. Johansson’s advice on handling the intensity of such a character was instrumental for Olsen. “Scarlett taught me how to stay grounded amidst the chaos of filming and how to manage the emotional weight of the role,” Olsen explains. “Her support was crucial in helping me navigate these challenges.”
Johansson’s influence extended beyond mere acting tips. She offered practical advice on maintaining physical fitness, managing stress, and finding a healthy work-life balance. This guidance was particularly important given the rigorous demands of the MCU’s filming schedules and the physicality required for superhero roles. Olsen reveals that Johansson’s ability to maintain her own balance while playing Black Widow provided a roadmap for her own journey as the Scarlet Witch.
Moreover, Johansson’s emotional support played a pivotal role in boosting Olsen’s confidence. “Scarlett’s belief in me helped me believe in myself,” Olsen admits. This affirmation was essential as Olsen took on the more intricate aspects of Wanda’s character, especially as the Scarlet Witch’s storyline delved into darker, more complex territory.
The results of Johansson’s mentorship are evident in Olsen’s portrayal of Wanda in “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.” Her performance not only showcases Wanda’s formidable powers but also her profound internal struggles. Olsen’s ability to convey these dimensions of her character reflects the depth of insight and support she received from Johansson.
InStyle’s interview with Olsen highlights the collaborative spirit that defines the MCU, where stars support and uplift one another to create extraordinary cinematic experiences. Elizabeth Olsen’s journey, deeply influenced by Scarlett Johansson’s mentorship, serves as a powerful example of how guidance and camaraderie among actors contribute to the creation of iconic superhero stories. As the MCU continues to evolve, the bond between these two remarkable actresses underscores the importance of mentorship and mutual support in the pursuit of excellence.
