Lily James has revealed that the upcoming reboot of the classic action film Cliffhanger is a “real re-imagining” of the original 1993 movie featuring Sylvester Stallone. In this fresh adaptation, James portrays Naomi Cooper, a character who is central to the new narrative. Speaking with Screen Rant, she emphasized that this version is “definitely different” from its predecessor.
James shared insights into her experiences while filming in the Dolomites, where production took place over a six-week period. “I had one of the most thrilling experiences of my life,” she stated. The actress highlighted the physical challenges faced during filming, including having to suspend production multiple times due to unexpected snowstorms.
New Storyline Focuses on Family Dynamics
The storyline centers on Naomi and her sister, Sydney. James expressed her hope that the reboot retains the beloved elements of the original while offering something entirely new. The film promises a “feral” and “raw” essence, reflecting a significant departure from the original plot. “It’s a real re-imagining, and I am producing it too,” she noted, indicating her deep involvement in the project.
In addition to her role, James spoke highly of director Jaume Collet-Serra, stating that working with him was a fulfilling experience. She also expressed excitement about collaborating with Pierce Brosnan, who plays her character’s father, Ray Cooper. “Pierce Brosnan is just a dream,” James remarked, as she eagerly anticipates the film’s release, currently in the editing phase.
Intensive Training for Authentic Performance
To prepare for her role, James underwent rigorous training in rock climbing, an experience she described as both empowering and challenging. “I fell completely in love with rock climbing,” she shared, emphasizing the importance of physical strength for the character. Her dedication has reportedly allowed the crew to capture remarkable shots that contribute to the film’s visual authenticity.
According to Collet-Serra, shooting on location in the Dolomites with large format cameras was crucial for showcasing the film’s scope. He praised James’s commitment to her role, stating, “Her dedication has allowed us to capture some incredible shots we couldn’t have achieved otherwise.”
The cast of Cliffhanger also features Nell Tiger Free, Franz Rogowski, Shubham Saraf, Assaad Bouab, Suzy Bemba, and Bruno Gouery. The official synopsis describes the reboot as a thrilling tale where seasoned mountaineer Ray Cooper and his daughter Sydney face off against a gang of kidnappers during a weekend trip. Naomi, haunted by a past climbing accident, witnesses the attack and finds herself in a fight for survival.
The anticipation surrounding this reboot reflects both the legacy of the original film and the fresh perspectives that James and her team bring to the project. As production progresses, fans are eager to see how this new interpretation of Cliffhanger unfolds on screen.
