SXSW 2026 Pretty Lethal red carpet interviews: Lana Condor and the rest of the cast talk high-camp action, ballet, and female teamwork. [VIDEO]
Pretty Lethal is a film that perfectly matches the loud, colorful, and high-camp atmosphere of SXSW 2026, so I was looking forward to attending the premiere and covering the red carpet.
This action-packed thriller follows a group of elite ballerinas who must trade their pointe shoes for tactical gear when they are targeted by a lethal underground organization. It’s a story that blends the elegance of ballet with intense fighting and gore, but at its heart, it’s a refreshing look at female empowerment and the necessity of teamwork in the face of total chaos.
Mama’s Geeky had the absolute pleasure of catching up with the powerhouse team behind this film. I spoke with director Vicky Jewson and writer Kate Freund about crafting such a unique genre-bend, and I also chatted with the incredible ensemble cast.
I spent time with Iris Apatow, Millicent Simmonds, Avantika, Maddie Ziegler, and the legendary Uma Thurman. I also spoke with Lana Condor to discuss what it’s like being a role model and how this film is literally tailor-made for a new generation of fans.
Empowerment Through Teamwork
Lana was incredibly sweet as she shared her excitement for the project and the deep bond she formed with her co-stars. She emphasized that the film’s core message is about leaning on those around you to survive.
“It’s really about teamwork,” she explained. “You’re not going to survive on your own. You have to lean on your friends, even if you don’t think they’re your friends. Anyone can kind of become a friend, you know? So, yeah, it’s about it’s about teamwork and we’re stronger together”.
It was so wonderful to hear her talk about a movie where women aren’t pitted against each other, but are instead lifting each other up. The connection between the five lead women was something Lana found truly special and unique to this production.
“I’ve never been a part of a group of five women that are this locked in with each other,” Lana shared. “We have all different strengths and weaknesses. And wherever we fall, the other person will step right in wherever we thrive. We always lift each other up. It’s been the most amazing experience getting to work with all five of these women and see that the teamwork started behind the camera and clearly showed in front of it”.
Be sure to watch the full video for more of our interviews with Lana Condor and the rest of the Pretty Lethal cast! Stay tuned for more of our SXSW 2026 red carpet coverage, including Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, Normal, Power Ballad, Brian, and Over Your Dead Body.
