But finding the right butts to kick took some searching.
The drama has to be real, and the reason for risk has to be the highest imaginable.
Jen gives you exactly what you want from the role, says director Pierre Morel (2009sTaken).
Credit: Michael Muller/STX Films
But in reality, Garner had only three months to prepare physically.
It was the greatest fun.
Im labeled as doing action stuff, so I was looking for something with a soul, he says.
Tony Rivett/ STX Films
Casting is everything, he says.
Part of Morels motivation for keeping the action realistic and connected to the plotline was to avoid gratuitous violence.
Theres movies where the violence becomes a spectacle, he says.
Real violence you see on the street gunshots and blades is bad enough, but theres truth to it.
Garner, for one, is glad the gore doesnt blot out the storys heart.
Im very easily grossed out, but this isnt that, she says.
Well have to see.
Peppermintis in theaters now.
