I've actually been able to do this thanks to my husband and I feel like I'm very lucky for that. To be honest with you, all the time people ask my husband: "How come you are not jealous? She is kissing other men on screen! " He tells them: “You know, it's not about other men, I know it's their job and I'm not jealous because she doesn't make me feel jealous; I know that I am her first priority and our daughters are our first priority". My family is the first thing in our lives. We knew that this last year was going to be different because I was going to be working a lot. It has been the busiest year I have ever had! We knew that, we expected that and we came prepared and ready. Now we start working together.
In what kind of projects?
My husband is brilliant, he is a man who knows how to do business. We are developing some projects together, both in their business and in the field of storytelling, some have to do with the Holocaust and others with life stories of very special women. Anyway, we think that we are like a gypsy family and that is why we travel all the time: I could not expect that someone who has been such a successful person, A businessman like my husband will drop everything to come with me to Hollywood. We managed to unite and find our way.
And outside the entertainment industry?
When I was shooting Fast & Furious my husband, Yaron, and I started to travel quite a bit between Israel and the United States. We were staying in hotels all the time, but we wanted to feel at home. It was difficult, until we discovered some apartments inside a hotel in Los Angeles: that was the inspiration for Yaron's hotel, The Varsano. The good thing about our marriage is that we have a very high degree of understanding and communication, in which we constantly help each other. That has been essential for both of us, we are very involved with our respective jobs.
When I was shooting Fast & Furious my husband, Yaron, and I started to travel quite a bit between Israel and the United States. We were staying in hotels all the time, but we wanted to feel at home. It was difficult, until we discovered some apartments inside a hotel in Los Angeles: that was the inspiration for Yaron's hotel, The Varsano. The good thing about our marriage is that we have a very high degree of understanding and communication, in which we constantly help each other. That has been essential for both of us, we are very involved with our respective jobs.
We try to maintain a very normal family life. When I am not working, I take my daughter to school. I love cooking: in Tel Aviv we have a beautiful house and a beautiful garden with orange trees, olive trees and all kinds of different herbs, with which I make salads. I know my neighbors very well, we are friends with most of them and I live in a neighborhood where you can really live the neighborhood: we are five minutes from the ocean, there are many cafes, you can go for a walk all the time ...
We cannot talk about giving strength and total equality to women without educating men too. It is not a one-sided thing, we need both parties to be in this together.
Despite the fact that his career has been relatively short, his time in Hollywood has had an overwhelming pace. How do you assume fame?
I'm not paying attention to fame, it's just a side effect. As in Israel I have already been a recognized figure for years, I'm used to what's going on here with the paparazzi, so it's just white noise. The only good thing about all this is that now I don't have to fight and go through grueling castings: now I have the script, if I like it I will do it and if I don't like it, I thank you and let it pass. EThis is something incredible for me, I even feel bad when an agent sends me scripts and I consider that I do not want to do something because I think it does not suit me. But that's the only thing, I feel very grateful for everything that I am going through.
How has your husband taken this sudden fame?
In the best way a life partner could. He has always been with me through good times and bad of this profession, he is my fan, my biggest follower. The only thing that changed is that she started to train more because I have become very strong! [laughs].
I'm not paying attention to fame, it's just a side effect. As in Israel I have already been a recognized figure for years, I'm used to what's going on here with the paparazzi, so it's just white noise. The only good thing about all this is that now I don't have to fight and go through grueling castings: now I have the script, if I like it I will do it and if I don't like it, I thank you and let it pass. EThis is something incredible for me, I even feel bad when an agent sends me scripts and I consider that I do not want to do something because I think it does not suit me. But that's the only thing, I feel very grateful for everything that I am going through.
How has your husband taken this sudden fame?
In the best way a life partner could. He has always been with me through good times and bad of this profession, he is my fan, my biggest follower. The only thing that changed is that she started to train more because I have become very strong! [laughs].
How involved are you in the political arena?
Oh, are we getting into politics now? Well ... Fortunately I am not a woman who likes politics, I leave that to the politicians. I have a lot of opinions about what happens in the United States, I feel that we are in a very interesting era because there are many people who just want to have a change, who only want to achieve something different things But to be honest, I try to deliver a small gesture of good to the world by not bonding in that regard. I just try to be good to others and try to help and do what I can, without getting into ideologies of either side.
Oh, are we getting into politics now? Well ... Fortunately I am not a woman who likes politics, I leave that to the politicians. I have a lot of opinions about what happens in the United States, I feel that we are in a very interesting era because there are many people who just want to have a change, who only want to achieve something different things But to be honest, I try to deliver a small gesture of good to the world by not bonding in that regard. I just try to be good to others and try to help and do what I can, without getting into ideologies of either side.
I love my country, I really do, just as I love the people. I would love for all people to live together in peace. When my parents went to the army, they hoped that the next generation would not have to go, they thought that we would already have peace. Today I feel and think the same as my parents thought and I know that at the end of the day most of the people want to live in peace and in coexistence. We are all the same and we all have the same dreams. We all want our children to have the best education, we want to be healthy and have a good life. That is what I wish everyone in Israel and throughout the world.
What do you think makes Wonder Woman such a feminist heroine?
First of all, you don't see a huge gender difference with her. That is not even a problem. She comes from a world where men and women are equal and where there are no inequalities. She sees and feels that she can do the same as any man. She is a peace seeker, not looking to start battles or fights, but tries to solve everything in a different way. I think that's what's beautiful about Wonder Woman.
Do you think this is why the film has reached the female audience so well?
Honestly, I think this movie is not only important for the girls, but it is also important for the boys. As we are talking about empowering women, first of all it is important that girls have a strong female figure to watch; But, at the same time, it is important that children also have a strong female figure to observe. We cannot talk about giving strength and total equality to women without educating men as well. It is not a one-sided thing, we need both parties to be in this together.
Do you feel that this message has clearly reached the audience?
That is interesting. A few nights ago I had a conversation with my oldest daughter, Alma, of five years. He took her to sleep, I was reading her a story about princesses and then she said, "Princes are usually very strong!" And I asked him: "And the princesses?" "They are weak." "And how do you think they should be, Alma?" Then she said, "You must be strong, you must be strong!" I am very proud that this angle is finally showing with this film, because all men, from children, always had a hero to admire, whether it was Superman or Batman or whatever. While the girls usually saw a model in which the princesses are passive, they are saved. En cambio Wonder Woman is fearless, proactive, believes in herself and believes that she can do it all. She that's a real woman to me.
That is interesting. A few nights ago I had a conversation with my oldest daughter, Alma, of five years. He took her to sleep, I was reading her a story about princesses and then she said, "Princes are usually very strong!" And I asked him: "And the princesses?" "They are weak." "And how do you think they should be, Alma?" Then she said, "You must be strong, you must be strong!" I am very proud that this angle is finally showing with this film, because all men, from children, always had a hero to admire, whether it was Superman or Batman or whatever. While the girls usually saw a model in which the princesses are passive, they are saved. En cambio Wonder Woman is fearless, proactive, believes in herself and believes that she can do it all. She that's a real woman to me.
As you name your daughter Alma, congratulations on your baby Maya!
Thanks! She is very special because I was already pregnant with her when we filmed Wonder Woman and in some scenes we filmed you could see something on my belly. We had to hide it with special effects, but that didn't hinder the filming process because I was able to do physically demanding scenes. Now it's nice to watch the movie and know that Maya is in the movie with me as well, in a way. I love that and I am happy. Really I think everything happens for a reason. It was because of this character that I got pregnant with Maya and the birth of her in March was like a good omen that this movie, Like her, I was going to change my life in a positive way.
What important things are you trying to teach Alma and are you going to teach Maya?
To love herself, to have good self-esteem, to respect others and to respect herself. I think at the end of the day, if you love yourself enough… I'm not talking about that love of yourself where you go to look at yourself in the mirror and say that you are a queen, no; I mean to be proud of who you are, to have a strong personality and a strong character, but at the same time to be warm with the world, to be loving and to try to surround yourself with people who have those qualities. That's the way I see it. I will instill in them to believe in themselves, to always be respectful to everyone, and to love themselves for who they are.
Has Alma adjusted to her new baby sister?
It was very special. She is five years old and in general has been very excited. He wants to have her by her side all the time, but Maya isn't even six months old yet and it's too early for her to interact as Alma wants. There will be plenty of time for that! [laughs].
Let's go back to his childhood and teenage years. What women did he admire at that time?
I have to say that I think the greatest role model that I followed, and that I still greatly admire, is the singer and poet Maya Angelou. I always loved his ideological agenda, the way he expressed himself and all the messages he had to say. In fact, I named my youngest daughter Maya after her. That woman had a great effect on me.
And what is the story of the name of Alma, his eldest daughter?
In ancient Hebrew "Alma" means "universe." I was looking for deep meanings when I named my daughters. I feel very good to have brought them into this world. My husband is the one who controls the sex of our children and luckily he gave me two beautiful healthy girls [laughs].
I have to say that I think the greatest role model that I followed, and that I still greatly admire, is the singer and poet Maya Angelou. I always loved his ideological agenda, the way he expressed himself and all the messages he had to say. In fact, I named my youngest daughter Maya after her. That woman had a great effect on me.
And what is the story of the name of Alma, his eldest daughter?
In ancient Hebrew "Alma" means "universe." I was looking for deep meanings when I named my daughters. I feel very good to have brought them into this world. My husband is the one who controls the sex of our children and luckily he gave me two beautiful healthy girls [laughs].
He was in the Israeli army for two years. How much did that time in his life help you with the action scenes in his movies?
Well, I want to clarify that I never fought in the army. I was a combat instructor, but I never fought on the field. What I did was work in a gym, training and keeping the soldiers in good shape. But I guess the only thing that helped me was that during those two years I was very active and physically fit. When I worked for The Fast and the Furious I was in excellent physical condition and was sure of the way to move.
In your real life, when do you feel like a Wonder Woman?
When I have my girls in my arms. I know it sounds corny, but when you give birth you feel like you are a god. Oh my God, I made this little piece of life! [Laughs]. The best feeling of feeling like a wonderful woman is when one becomes a mother and brings a new life.
Well, I want to clarify that I never fought in the army. I was a combat instructor, but I never fought on the field. What I did was work in a gym, training and keeping the soldiers in good shape. But I guess the only thing that helped me was that during those two years I was very active and physically fit. When I worked for The Fast and the Furious I was in excellent physical condition and was sure of the way to move.
In your real life, when do you feel like a Wonder Woman?
When I have my girls in my arms. I know it sounds corny, but when you give birth you feel like you are a god. Oh my God, I made this little piece of life! [Laughs]. The best feeling of feeling like a wonderful woman is when one becomes a mother and brings a new life.
The most important thing is that we do not present this character as a cold woman determined to destroy all men just because she is so strong. I was interested that not only women identified with them, but also men. Also the little ones. I discovered that if we showed her flaws, if it became clear that she is not perfect and that she can be the best warrior and at the same time be very innocent, curious, too direct, confident and focused on her mission, the result was going to be much more robust. She wanted her to also see her worried and that on certain occasions she did not know what to do. That makes it interesting and credible. In any case, I insist that this film is not only important for girls, but also for boys. We talk about female empowerment all the time and yes, girls need a strong female figure to look up to, but at the same time they also need it, because you cannot empower women if you do not educate men.
Was it important to you that she look vulnerable?
It was essential. Because he is someone who does not belong to that place, he discovers a world that he had never seen. She is an idealistic young woman who believes in the good and is convinced that the world is very simple. That makes her vulnerable because she doesn't understand the complexities of life. But at the same time, I don't see that her vulnerability is a weakness. It gives you many opportunities to resolve situations.
It was essential. Because he is someone who does not belong to that place, he discovers a world that he had never seen. She is an idealistic young woman who believes in the good and is convinced that the world is very simple. That makes her vulnerable because she doesn't understand the complexities of life. But at the same time, I don't see that her vulnerability is a weakness. It gives you many opportunities to resolve situations.
What was it like working with Patty Jenkins?
You know how to create intimacy with your actors. In the whole process I felt that she was there with me and that I could talk about everything with her. When I was in front of the camera and she was behind the monitor, I felt her by my side. On a personal level, we connect on a very deep level. I adore her. When they tell me they were looking for a director because it is a film about women, I have mixed feelings. It's good to have someone behind the camera who went through the experience of going from a girl to a woman, but they didn't get the film because she was a woman, but because she was the right person for the task.
Was there a time in your life when you felt like Wonder Woman?
Sure, when I had my daughters. When you are in labor and give birth, you feel like a goddess. You can't believe you made it. Nothing can be compared to becoming a mother and giving life.
Sure, when I had my daughters. When you are in labor and give birth, you feel like a goddess. You can't believe you made it. Nothing can be compared to becoming a mother and giving life.
He also participated in 'Fast & Furious 8'. What attracts you to blockbusters?
I like them very much. As a child I was very active and I always enjoyed using my body as a form of expression. The first movie I participated in was Fast & Furious. And the second. That pigeonholed me very quickly. But it's something I enjoy, even though it never occurred to me that one day I was going to play Wonder Woman. I'm one of those who believe that things happen for a reason and i know i'll get my chance to do dramas.
I like them very much. As a child I was very active and I always enjoyed using my body as a form of expression. The first movie I participated in was Fast & Furious. And the second. That pigeonholed me very quickly. But it's something I enjoy, even though it never occurred to me that one day I was going to play Wonder Woman. I'm one of those who believe that things happen for a reason and i know i'll get my chance to do dramas.
Are you surprised how quickly it has become famous on a world scale?
Yes, but I don't pay attention to fame. It is just a consequence of my work. I have been famous in Israel for many years and that helped me get used to dealing with the paparazzi in the US. The good thing is that now I don't need to fight for a role or go through exhausting auditions. They send me the script and, if I like it, I do it. It never ceases to amaze me. I feel bad every time I say no, which is why I always explain that I am very sorry and appreciate the opportunity. I know that I am very lucky.
Yes, but I don't pay attention to fame. It is just a consequence of my work. I have been famous in Israel for many years and that helped me get used to dealing with the paparazzi in the US. The good thing is that now I don't need to fight for a role or go through exhausting auditions. They send me the script and, if I like it, I do it. It never ceases to amaze me. I feel bad every time I say no, which is why I always explain that I am very sorry and appreciate the opportunity. I know that I am very lucky.
There are not many actresses who have done military service. How was it for you?
I wish that no country needed an army, but unfortunately it is not the case in Israel, and for me that women do military service is the most normal thing in the world. My parents went to the army and so did my grandparents. My best friend is a fighter pilot. In Israel at 18 you have to do your military service. It's hard, because you give up your freedom for two years, but if I analyze it with a romantic look, there is something very beautiful in giving things back to your community and to your country. And that's the way to do it, putting on the uniform.
I wish that no country needed an army, but unfortunately it is not the case in Israel, and for me that women do military service is the most normal thing in the world. My parents went to the army and so did my grandparents. My best friend is a fighter pilot. In Israel at 18 you have to do your military service. It's hard, because you give up your freedom for two years, but if I analyze it with a romantic look, there is something very beautiful in giving things back to your community and to your country. And that's the way to do it, putting on the uniform.