Monica Bellucci Discusses Action Sequences and Playing Antagonist Julia Leone in 7 Dogs
Italian actor Monica Bellucci has shared details regarding her portrayal of the antagonist Julia Leone in the upcoming Arabic action feature 7 Dogs. Directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, the film unites an international cast across multiple regional industries and is set to arrive in Indian cinemas on August 21.
What Happened
In 7 Dogs, Monica Bellucci portrays Julia Leone, an influential criminal figure commanding operations across Europe while constantly outmanoeuvring law enforcement. Bellucci noted that the role was a marked departure from her customary work due to the substantial volume of action sequences. Describing her approach to the antagonist, she explained that she opted to step into the character without moral judgment, embracing the challenge of playing a woman in total power and control despite not being accustomed to filming action scenes.
The project also marked Bellucci’s initial experience filming in Saudi Arabia. She observed that the large studio setup and comprehensive organisation provided the resources of a major cinematic production. The production reunites directors Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, known for directing Hollywood action titles such as Bad Boys for Life and Bad Boys: Ride or Die, whose energetic and multi-genre filmmaking drew Bellucci to the venture.
Key Highlights
- Role and Dynamics: Monica Bellucci plays Julia Leone, an elusive European crime leader.
- New Genre Experience: Bellucci noted that handling action scenes presented a fresh challenge, as she is not traditionally accustomed to the physical demands of the genre.
- Saudi Arabia Shoot: The production served as Bellucci’s first project filmed in Saudi Arabia, where she commended the facilities and organizational scale.
- International Ensemble: The cast includes Egyptian stars Ahmed Ezz and Karim Abdel Aziz, alongside appearances by Indian actors Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt, as well as Hollywood performers Martin Lawrence and Giancarlo Esposito.
- Blend of Styles: Bellucci described the film as a hybrid combining action, thriller elements, comedy, and visual energy reminiscent of a comic book.
Why This Matters
The project highlights expanding multi-national film collaborations. 7 Dogs weaves together talent from Hollywood, Egypt, Italy, and India under a production based in Saudi Arabia. Bellucci highlighted this cross-border dynamic, pointing out that such international partnerships have increasingly become a prominent aspect of modern global filmmaking.
What to Watch Next
Audiences in India can watch 7 Dogs when it releases in domestic theatres on August 21. Viewers will see the story unfold around police officer Khalid (played by Ahmed Ezz) and temporarily freed convict Ghali (played by Karim Abdel Aziz) as they join forces to dismantle a dangerous criminal syndicate.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is 7 Dogs scheduled to release in India?
The action film is scheduled to arrive in Indian cinemas on August 21.
Who directed 7 Dogs?
The movie is helmed by directing duo Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, who previously directed Bad Boys for Life and Bad Boys: Ride or Die.
Who does Monica Bellucci play in the film?
Bellucci portrays Julia Leone, a powerful European crime figure who repeatedly eludes law enforcement.
Which Indian actors feature in the cast?
Indian actors Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt make appearances in the production alongside the international ensemble.
Source: Bollywood Hungama