Diego Luna has opened up about the intense transformation he underwent for his latest television drama, La Máquina, describing the experience as feeling like he was “choking on his own skin” due to the extensive use of prosthetics.
The Mexican actor, known for his collaborations with childhood friend Gael García Bernal, has been a significant figure in cinema for over two decades. Their newest project, La Máquina, available on Disney Plus, features García Bernal as an aging boxer named Esteban, with Luna portraying Andy, his manager, who is obsessed with his appearance.
This series marks Hulu’s first Spanish-language original and follows the two characters as they strive for one last chance at success. However, their ambitions are threatened by sinister forces lurking in the background.
In a recent interview with Metro, Luna discussed the process of embodying Andy, emphasizing that his transformation involved more than just the facial prosthetics. He described Andy as a complex character who struggles with his identity and desires, living in the shadow of a prominent figure in the boxing world. “Andy is a very strange character. A guy that lives behind the most popular boxer in Mexico,” Luna explained. “He really wants to be seen. He’s obsessed with popularity and the way he looks.”
Luna noted that Andy’s “sickness” reflects a societal obsession with appearances and superficiality. “He’s going through the process of having to let go,” he said, highlighting a deeper narrative about the emptiness of such pursuits.
While the prosthetics contributed significantly to Luna’s portrayal, he admitted that he found them uncomfortable. “They’re painful. Basically, your skin doesn’t breathe. You’re choking your own skin,” he said. Despite the discomfort, Luna praised the talented team behind the character’s creation, which involved strict guidelines for the use of prosthetics.
Moreover, he emphasized that Andy’s story goes beyond physical appearances. “There’s an amazing work of costume design, the sets, the props—everything around him tells a story,” he said. He pointed out that Andy embodies the futility of chasing superficial worth, prompting viewers to reflect on what truly holds value in life.
Luna and García Bernal’s enduring friendship, which began in childhood, has led to numerous collaborative projects, including the Ambulante Documentary Film Festival. “He’s been part of my life since day one. I’m pretty sure that as long as I tell stories, he’ll be part of that somehow,” Luna remarked.
The duo has contemplated creating a story about a boxer and his manager for nearly a decade, making the release of La Máquina particularly significant. Luna believes the series serves as a commentary on the challenges of saying goodbye and recognizing new beginnings. “It’s quite fascinating to see these characters that have reached the end of something, or at least what they think life is about, and finding something else,” he said.
In addition to La Máquina, Luna continues to expand his career. He gained fame as Cassian Andor in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story in 2016, and the film has since been celebrated as one of the franchise’s best. He returned to this role in the successful series Andor, which has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
Regarding the upcoming second and final season of Andor, Luna remained tight-lipped but expressed his excitement about the work involved. “The wait is worth it. The amount of work behind the second season… the connection between the audience and the characters is going to pay out,” he stated. He emphasized that the conclusion of Andor will add new dimensions to Rogue One.
Luna’s passion for the Star Wars universe is evident, as he expressed gratitude for the love and enthusiasm from fans. “The connection doesn’t happen often,” he noted, appreciating the opportunity to work with talented individuals in the industry.
As for his future projects, Luna humorously mentioned that he is currently taking a break from acting. “I’m producing and developing stuff, but as an actor, I’m gonna take a second. I’m gonna promote La Máquina and Andor and find what’s next,” he quipped. With a successful career in both television and film, Diego Luna continues to leave a significant mark in the entertainment industry.
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