The Superman Homepage hosts Steve Younis and Marc Lax had the pleasure of chatting with Neva Howell, who played Ma Kent in James Gunn’s “Superman” movie. Howell shared insights into her casting, her approach to the iconic role, and the joyful atmosphere on set.
The Road to Ma Kent: A Surreal Audition Process
Howell revealed that her journey to becoming Ma Kent was a lengthy and somewhat mysterious one. She initially received an audition request from her agent for a project with a codename like “Genesis,” and the character names were different, so she didn’t even know it was for a Superman film. The audition process was extensive, involving:
– An initial reading.
– A callback audition submitted on tape, potentially a third one.
– A screen test at the studio.
– A chemistry test with two potential Pa Kents.
It was at the end of this long day that James Gunn personally told her he wanted her for the role, a moment she described as “surreal” and one where she “almost fainted” due to the overwhelming joy and the smiling faces of producers like Peter Safran. She particularly highlighted Pruitt Taylor Vince, who ultimately landed the role of Pa Kent, noting that he “just nailed it” and “melted her heart” during their chemistry read.
Embracing the “Old School Vibe” of Ma Kent
Howell shared that her primary familiarity with Superman before this role came from Christopher Reeve’s first Superman film, which she adored, calling it “pitch perfect”. Despite other iterations, she hadn’t felt the need to see it reinvented, believing “they really got it”.
When it came to preparing for Ma Kent, Howell made a deliberate choice not to reach out to previous actresses who played the role. She understood that James Gunn was taking the character in a “different direction,” leaning back towards the “Christopher Reeve old school vibe”. She watched “little reels” of other interpretations online but avoided immersing herself, trusting Gunn’s clear vision. Gunn himself simply described Ma Kent as “down to earth” and a bit “more animated” than Pa. Howell felt she “got it” from the well-written script, making it an “easier role to wrap her head around”. She also felt her portrayal aligned more with Ma Kent from the old comic books.
A Family Vibe on Set: Praise for James Gunn and Co-Stars
The set of “Superman” was described as having a “family vibe,” filled with friendly and respectful cast and crew. Neva Howell attributed this atmosphere directly to James Gunn, whom she praised for setting the tone. Gunn’s philosophy was clear: “no divas,” only people who were “joyful, happy to be there and want to work together to bring the vision to the screen”. Howell loved watching Gunn’s “glee” and “intensity” as he focused on the monitors, soaking in every detail. She also fondly remembered him bringing “very sugary cupcakes” for the crew.
Howell was equally effusive in her praise for her on-screen family:
– David Corenswet (Clark Kent/Superman): She found him “fantastic” and “really that nice.” Seeing him in the suit, she instantly felt he was “perfectly cast”.
– Pruitt Taylor Vince (Pa Kent): Howell “adores” him, calling him “incredibly talented” and “generous,” treating her as an “equal” despite his extensive credits. Though she initially found his casting an “interesting choice,” she couldn’t imagine anyone else as Pa Kent once he spoke. She emphasised that they “look like Kansas farm folk” together and felt “authentic” in their roles.
The Kansas Accent and Emotional Impact
One topic of discussion was Ma Kent’s accent. Howell revealed she studied tapes of a woman named Pat Christie to develop the accent. While some fans had “taken issue” with it not sounding “Kansas” enough, Howell explained that there’s a similarity between her natural Alabama southern accent and rural southeast Kansas accents. She noted that Pat Christie herself liked the accent, and they’ve since become friends. Howell acknowledged that fans often expect what they’ve seen before, and James Gunn’s different direction might “startle” some. However, she remains “happy with Ma” and how she played her. She even hopes to “perfect” the accent in future appearances by consulting with her new friend, Pat.
Howell highlighted several memorable moments from filming and the finished product:
– The home movies montage: She was deeply moved reading the script’s ending, crying at its beauty. Filming with the young actors, especially Jack (young Clark), was a joy. She felt the scene’s impact during filming and observed the audience’s silence at the premiere, noting the “perfect” song choice.
– The phone call scene: She recalled James Gunn’s laughter from the other room while watching the monitors during the scene and his simple, effective direction: “Louder, louder”.
– The “mush” line: Howell clarified that Ma Kent wasn’t making fun of Pa but was being “endearing” and “loves to rib him” about his emotional side.
– Filming wrap: She admitted to crying “ugly tears” at the bittersweet conclusion of filming, feeling a deep connection to the cast and crew.
Ma Kent’s Guiding Example and Future Hopes
Howell sees Ma Kent as guiding Clark “by example more than words,” much like her own grandmother. She believes Clark absorbed Ma’s selfless actions of helping people in the community and cooking for her family, mirroring his own desire to help others.
Howell has seen the film three times herself: at the Hollywood premiere, with her apartment complex group, and with her family. She prefers this version of “Superman” due to its “light,” “color,” “fun,” and “comic book” feel, contrasting it with potentially darker past adaptations.
Perhaps the most touching aspect of her experience has been the overwhelming fan response. She’s been “surprised and touched” by how many people are “genuinely moved” by Ma Kent, as the character reminds them of a lost loved one, like a grandmother or mother. Howell described this as the “biggest blessing” of the role.
While there’s no guarantee regarding Ma Kent’s return, Howell “hopes so,” expressing a strong desire to “bring her back” and even “perfect what [she] might not have gotten right” with the accent. She noted that fans particularly appreciate that both Ma and Pa Kent are alive in this version of the story.
Neva Howell concluded the interview by expressing her immense gratitude for the opportunity, calling it an “unforgettable experience,” and thanking James Gunn, Pruitt Taylor Vince, and the fans. While there are no confirmed upcoming projects, Howell hinted that “things are being talked about,” leaving fans eager to see what’s next for this beloved Ma Kent.
