Kiki Layne talks Netflix’s The Old Guard and her greatest power in life

“The script came to me at a time when I had been looking to move into a bigger sandbox and it ended up presenting me with the opportunity to do exactly what I wanted to: To put female heroes into the world, one of whom is a young black woman,” said Gina Prince-Bythewood when talked about the core of The Old Guard's storytelling. 

Best known for her role in If Beale Street Could Talk (which you can also watch it on Netflix), Kiki Layne (@kikilayne) has been building up her resume over the years with contrasting characters, and The Old Guard has marked her very first action film.

Here, the actress shares more about The Old Guard, her career and growing up:

Who's your hero and to whom do you think you're a hero?

My mom is my hero. [thinks]  Well, I hope that I am a hero, but instead of a 'hero', I want to be an inspiration and encouragement to all the young black actresses out there.

Growing up, what do you think is your greatest power?

My ability to cheer people up! [laughs]  You know, I hate to see any of my friends being down, so I am always happy to be the one who hypes them up and does some random stuff just to put a smile back to their faces. 

What course are you willing to fight for even though it will take your whole lifetime?

I think I am doing that right now – those I am doing and trying to do at the moment. Like being a black representation and voice in the industry, and how to not be limited to the same type of roles and storytelling.

Is there anyone you've learned a lot from recently?

I am lucky enough to work with a lot of amazing people who I've learned a lot from. Charlize is one of them. The Old Guard is my very first action film and I am so grateful to have Charlize -who is having great experience in this genre on set. The relationship between Andy and Nile is at the heart of The Old Guard, it truly shows how women lift and empower each other. Inside or outside the story, I've learnt a lot from Charlize.

[thinks] For my personal life, it's definitely my mother. Just looking at her taking care of me and my brother, and how she always tries to give us a better life give me strength. 

Any words to Netflix audiences in Malaysia?

First of all, Hiii! The Old Guard is the most global project I've ever been a part of, it will be delivered to people in different parts of the globe and it's just so amazing that I'm able to introduce myself to the friends in Malaysia, I hope y'all enjoy the story!