Emma Mackey Draws Stark Contrast Between “Ella McCay” and Narnia’s White Witch Role

Actress Emma Mackey has opened up about her latest film projects. She spoke with Variety about her experience filming two very different roles. The interview took place recently as her film “Ella McCay” hit theaters.

Mackey is known globally for her role in “Sex Education.” She compared her new political comedy character to the iconic villain she is now playing. Her insights reveal the thoughtful process behind her acting choices.

Finding Humanity in Political Satire and Fantasy Villainy

In “Ella McCay,” Mackey plays a young political aide. The film is a comedy-drama directed by the legendary James L. Brooks. She stars alongside veteran actress Jamie Lee Curtis in the project.

Mackey described her character, Ella, as not always poised. She explained they looked for moments where the character faltered. This was key to showing Ella’s humanity and clumsiness.

This contrasts sharply with her next major role. Mackey is currently filming as Jadis, the White Witch. The film is “Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew,” directed by Greta Gerwig.

A Privileged Position Between Cinematic Giants

Mackey expressed deep gratitude for her current opportunities. She called working with both Gerwig and Brooks a tremendous privilege. According to her, both directors share a truthful and passionate approach.

She finds the environment on both sets invigorating. Being surrounded by such dedicated cinematic minds is enriching, she noted. They lead by example in their profound care for the work.

The actress acknowledged a vast gap between her two characters. Ella McCay is a modern, flawed political figure. Jadis is an ancient, poised, and powerful fantasy antagonist.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: What two roles did Emma Mackey compare?

She compared her role as Ella in the political comedy “Ella McCay” to her upcoming role as Jadis, the White Witch, in “Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew.” Mackey highlighted the differences in their poise and power.

Q2: Who directed “Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew”?

The upcoming “Narnia” film is directed by Greta Gerwig. Emma Mackey praised Gerwig’s truthful approach and deep passion for cinema. The film is a major Netflix production.

Q3: When is the new Narnia movie coming out?

“Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew” has a two-part release. It will first appear in IMAX theaters for a limited time starting November 26, 2026. The film will then premiere on Netflix on Christmas Day 2026.

Q4: What did Mackey say about her “Ella McCay” character?

She said Ella is not always poised and can be clumsy. Mackey and the director focused on finding the character’s cracks and surprising moments. This was to make her more human and relatable.

Q5: Who did Mackey star with in “Ella McCay”?

She starred alongside acclaimed actress Jamie Lee Curtis. The film was directed by Oscar-winner James L. Brooks. “Ella McCay” was released in theaters on December 12.