Furiosa Prequel Features Epic 15-Minute Action Sequence

The highly anticipated Mad Max prequel, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, will feature a 15-minute action sequence called "Stairway to Nowhere" that took 78 days to shoot with nearly 200 stunt performers, according to producer Doug Mitchell and star Anya Taylor-Joy. The sequence marks a turning point for the character of Furiosa, showcasing her resourcefulness and grit.

Director George Miller and Taylor-Joy had extensive discussions about the importance of this lengthy action set-piece. "It's crucially important to understanding Furiosa and her resourcefulness and grit," said Taylor-Joy. "It's an accumulation of skills over the course of a battle."

The production of the "Stairway to Nowhere" sequence was a massive undertaking. It is described as the longest sequence ever shot by the filmmakers. The grueling atmosphere on set and the sheer scale of the action proved challenging, but the cast and crew prevailed without the reported tensions that plagued the production of Mad Max: Fury Road.

Why this matters: The epic scope and meticulous development of the Furiosa character in this prequel have generated high anticipation among fans. The film is expected to match the scale and impact of its acclaimed predecessor, Mad Max: Fury Road.

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga also stars Chris Hemsworth as the villain Warlord Dementus. The film serves as an origin story for the Furiosa character, covering a 15-year period that shows how she was taken from the Green Place and trained by the legendary biker horde warlord leader. Furiosa is set to have its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival on May 15 before hitting theaters on May 24.

Key Takeaways

• Furiosa prequel to feature 15-min action sequence shot over 78 days
• Sequence marks a turning point for Furiosa, showcasing her resourcefulness
• Longest action sequence ever shot by the filmmakers
• Furiosa stars Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Hemsworth as villain Warlord Dementus
• Film to premiere at Cannes on May 15, release in theaters on May 24