Shailene Woodley is set to star in the upcoming thriller film, Ultra. Directed by Victoria Negri, this movie draws inspiration from Negri’s real-life experiences as an ultramarathoner.
The Plot of Ultra
In Ultra, Woodley portrays Eve, a character coping with the death of her twin sister. The film revolves around her participation in the infamous Badwater 135, a grueling 135-mile ultramarathon held in California’s Death Valley.
Key Themes of the Film
- The film explores themes of grief and resilience.
- Eve battles the harsh elements of the ultramarathon while confronting her inner demons.
- A mysterious runner dressed in white pursues Eve, adding a layer of suspense.
Director’s Insight
Victoria Negri, an accomplished ultramarathoner, has completed multiple endurance races, including the Badwater 51-miler. She emphasizes the connection between running and processing grief.
Negri stated, “It’s through testing my limits in each of these epic races that I process loss.” Her personal experiences play a significant role in the film’s narrative, particularly influenced by her father’s paralysis due to a stroke.
Background on the Badwater 135
The Badwater 135 is one of the most challenging ultramarathons globally, known for its extreme heat and tough terrain. Historically, films about this event have been documentaries, making Ultra a unique addition to its cinematic portrayal.
Creative Career of Victoria Negri
Negri has directed several projects, including the ultramarathon documentary short, Personal Best, and has worked on films such as Gold Star and Mermaid, Bitch.
Shailene Woodley’s Transformation for the Role
Known for her roles in the Divergent series and Big Little Lies, Woodley is no stranger to outdoor adventures and physical challenges, which will serve her well in this role focused on ultrarunning.
Ultra promises to deliver a thrilling experience, seamlessly blending the intense sport of ultramarathon running with deep emotional storytelling.
