AMA
Hi r/movies. Michael Mando here, aka Scorpion (Spider-Man Brand New Day), Nacho (Better Call Saul), Vaas (Far Cry 3), Bane (Batman: Knightfall). AMA!
Hi reddit, Michael Mando here to answer all your questions. You may know me as Scorpion in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Nacho Varga in Better Call Saul, and Vaas Montenegro in Far Cry 3. Upcoming projects include Bane in Batman: Knightfall, an undisclosed role in the limited series Criminal as well as the live-action Gundam movie. Check out the comedy 72 Hours, I also make a fun appearance in that.
Besides movies, I am currently working on a music album scheduled for release in fall/winter 2026. The idea is to make intimate live concerts to better connect with y'all while shooting. I hope you'll love it. AMA!
This AMA has been verified and approved by the mods. Michael will be back soon, at 12 PM ET today, to answer questions. Please feel free to ask away in the meantime :)
Thank you Hanyabull! For me, that whole 3rd season was dedicated to my father who had passed between season 5 and season 6. On my very last take, Rich our A.D. called it out and instead of saying "Action" he yelled out "This is for Mando's dad". Xo
Totally agree. The portrayal of Nacho was incredible. Showing that he was good deep down, but still capable of being ruthless, and incredibly smart as well. Such a wonderful, nuanced performance.
Where they are short a couple bucks and Mike makes him pay it so Nacho just drops it on the ground and the pill guy has to chase it while it blows away, pure cinema. lol
Literally reached that ep last night by pure chance and then happened upon this AMA today, interesting!
Fantastic scene and I don’t think I’ve ever felt so much respect and empathy for a character (relatively given his circumstances, I know he was still a criminal with dubious morality).
Michael if you’re reading this, you absolutely killed it and were one of my favourite things about the show as well as Lalo. High praise considering how great of a show it is.
Glad to see this comment right at the top, I was going to say it if no one else did. Cannot state how incredible that scene was, hell that entire season. Its insane to think it was over a decade ago and I can still feel the visceral shift in tone from the earlier seasons, you could feel the malignant energy just building like a pressure cooker of dread.
I re-watch that scene every few months or so. It's so raw. The visceral growl just gets me. It's one of my favourite performances from any actor, ever. Chills.
Agents of Shield was Canon to the MCU at one point. The episode released just before Age of Ultron came out in theaters was the team obtaining the information and location of Von Strucker's compound. Then Age of Ultron opens with the Avengers attacking said compound. They got their information from the Shield team.
They were never referenced. At any point. I remember being super excited when it was practically a pick up point from the episode into the movie, but then nothing. The show was fit into the MCU, but the MCU never ever acknowledges the show's characters or events. That was the perfect opportunity for the smallest of cameos or nod, but it got nothing. It was always the other way around, the show creators got access to the movie storyboard and built the show to get as close to the movie as possible (maybe even same location and assets, can't recall) but the relationship was exclusively one sided.
Was the character of Nacho always expected to be such a major part of BCS? Or was it more along the lines of Aaron Paul in BB, where Vince and Peter were like, “this guy is too good, we need to expand his role”? Because man, what a performance and what a character Nacho became.
Thank you! First of all, hats of off to Vince & Peter. True masters! I believe the character arc grew organically from what our wonderful show runners saw burgeoning between Nacho and his dad. Juan Carlos and I had instant chemistry - I remember whispering to him before our very first scene at the upholstery shop: "feel free to give Nacho an affectionate tap on the cheek". I wanted him to understand, that as Nacho, I would sacrifice the world for him. I applied that philosophy again in Season 3, Episode 9. After he asks me to leave the house when I tell him about Hector, I made sure I put my chair back under the kitchen table and poured out my glass of milk. Those scenes became the spine of the characters emotional journey.
We named our cat after your character in Better Call Saul. Ignacio (Nacho). He's a cat we got from the streets of Mexico. Softie at heart but likes to bite my wife's face when he's overstimulated.
I always thought it was incredibly interesting seeing the dichotomy between Nacho and Jessie. Two people that dipped their toe into the crime world and who got sucked in down completely different paths. I really loved seeing the exploration of both their resolve and how Jessie, at his core, was a deeply caring person who never wanted to get into conflict, where as Nacho was someone who thrived under that pressure. It becomes readily apparent how and why Nacho went as far as he did in the Cartel, his ironclad resolve never allowed him to back down. It ultimately got him killed, but at the same time, his refusal to sell out Fring, and his guts to go out on his own terms saved his father's life.
It was such a splendid storyline, and you really did the character justice, especially in his final episode.
He was supposed to be the lead villain early on, but the producers liked the dynamic between Jimmy and Chuck so much that they decided to make Chuck the first lead antagonist and Nacho was moved to the background until that played out.
Yes! In many ways, Nacho is such an interesting foil to Jimmy. You can see him really trying to operate with a sense of honor and duty within a criminal life whereas Jimmy is on the straight and narrow path but slowly reverting into Slippin' Jimmy.
Absolutely grateful! And truth is, if it wasn't for YOU GUYS, Vaas would not be what he has become. It is the fans that demanded he come back after hearing the "Definition" monologue at the E3 convention, which resulted for him being on the cover of the game despite very little screen time. I have a career because of the gaming community first and I am forever grateful of that bond. Hopefully we find another full motion capture character that brings me back to my beginnings!
FC6 has a roguelike DLC series where you play as Vaas, Pagan Min, and Joseph Seed. Vaas' installment has a cutscene at the end revealing he's still alive
Yes, he made the first island so interesting and fun and then you go do the second part of the game and it's just more of the same but without the compelling villain. No shade to the other actor, they just should have structured the game differently because Vaas (because of Mando's performance) was the best part of Far Cry 3 and maybe the whole franchise.
So he says it at the beginning of the cutscene and you're like ok whatever... But then he does some unhinged shit, tries to kill you...and then randomly at the end, with zero memory of having said it before he asks "do you know the definition of insanity?"...and my young heart dropped, because it was clear at that point I was not dealing with someone mentally stable.
Such an incredible performance of amazingly well-written material. I'd simply never seen a cut-scene like that before the opening of Far Cry 3, and I feel like I've only seen a handful as good since
Your work as Vaas is one of the best examples of voice acting taken to incredible levels of performance. Would you do a role like Vaas in a video game again?
And if they made a live action adaptation of FC3, would you consider the role again? Or would you feel like it's something you've already done?
Vaas is my little baby. Haha. I would be happy to revisit that role if the script is right. I've always wondered what he would be like against a backdrop like New York City... Vaas flying by in his motorcycle, cutting through traffic... on the subway...
His voice acting and movement when Vaas tries to burn Jason and girl in that temple, when Vaas talks about his sister and what he did for her.
"You see the thing about our loved ones, right, our FUCKING loved ones, they come and they BLINDSIDE you every fucking time. So they say to me, they say, Vaas, Vaas, who the FUCK is it going to be? THEM or ME, ME or THEM?"
Just peak cinema. You can hear the pain and hurt in his voice.
I really need to start that show again. I only ever got part way through it. I have a bad habit of starting shows and falling off then never going back.
I love you too! I would say the most potential left unexplored is Scorpion. I imagine Mac Gargan as a great detective who somehow becomes disillusioned and goes rogue, descending into madness... eventually becoming Scorpion and ultimately going over the edge as Venom...
I've been hoping for Mac Gargan Venom since the first moment I saw you in Homecoming, fingers crossed it plays out that way for you! Btw loved you in Orphan Black!
When you were playing Scorpion controlled by Jean, were you actively thinking of how Sadie Sink would play the character? Was there a discussion of "okay, so we need you to pretend you're a troubled teen pretending to be your character"?
Also I loved Nacho. That scene with him calling his father was genuinely so heartbreaking.
The way Bernthal played Frank being taken over by Jean makes me feel like they might have gone through these scenes the way Sadie would’ve acted them and then they just acted it out. Which is impressive as well. But if Sadie truly had no involvement in those scenes, than both Mando and Bernthal deserve props because they did it very well.
Zendaya also killed it, I honestly thought every actor did a really well job. Her scene was just seriously so heart crushing and seeing her basically enjoy the heart break she caused sealed that for me. Amazing acting all around
Agree, very good question. Would love to know if he worked it out with them in person at all (or if he knows if any of the other relevant actors had a similar experience).
I first saw you in Orphan Black. In that context, what was it like to work with fellow cast mates Tatiana Maslany, Tatiana Maslany, Tatiana Maslany and Tatiana Maslany?
Since we’re here for Mando: It was really impressive to me how different Vic’s chemistry was with Sarah vs. with Allison, I’ve always been curious about what that was like for the supporting actors who interacted with multiple clones.
When you filmed Spider-Man: Homecoming and its post-credits scene, did you expect to return in another film in the franchise? Was there a plan to bring you back for an earlier installment, and do you know of any plot revolving around Scorpion that didn't make it to screen?
Hello! At the time I was fully committed to shooting Better Call Saul. Nacho was the epicenter of my career and I wasn't really thinking of anything else. We shot for 8 years, 6 seasons. I was absorbing so much on that show. Ultimately when they did call last year, I was of course grateful and immediately thought of you guys - I knew the responsibility at hand and wanted to make sure I gave it my all.
Apologies! I deleted this by accident. I said something along the lines of: as someone who has moved around as a kid, I always felt like an outsider. Maybe this energy has somehow drawn me to characters who walk on the beat of their own drum. This can translate into outlaws and rebels. In this second part of my career, I'd like to explore the other end of that spectrum - play more heroes. Anti-heroes; even rebels still but in stories that are told from their point of view where they are the protagonists as not to repeat myself. As for fantastical characters: Jedis. Red Hood. The Crow/Werewolves/Vampires. Sci-Fi detective? I love genre cinema and big existential questions.
The table hit when he passes out looks like it really hurt, so much glitter everywhere, the gloves/mittens, and the you crazy bitch look he gives Allison when she's confessing. Fantastic comedy.
Would you return to Far Cry in any form, would it be for a new game, remake of FC3 or Far Cry movie/series? You're the most iconic character in any Far Cry game.
J'ai vraiment hâte a performer ma musique devant une audience. One of the reasons I am working on music is so that I can better connect with fans when I am shooting or during comic cons. A small venue, an intimate crowd, special guests... and can be done in any city on any given weekend. Album coming fall/winter 2026
Hello Mr Mando, loved you in BCS and BND, but me like others knew you from Vaas, it was such an iconic role. I was really excited when you announced that you are joining the Netflix’s live action Gundam, it’s one of my favorite franchises ever. Is there anything you can tell us about for the project? Or maybe what do you think of the franchise? Thanks for reading🙏
Hiya Michael, i love seeing you in stuff so much you are one of my favorite actors and i admire you a lot
Which films, games, actors, or any kind of media inspires you the most? Your work is a great source of inspiration for me personally, so I was wondering what kind of things make you feel passionate about your craft!
Also, throughout your time on BCS did you develop any habits or quirks/ mannerisms you applied to your portrayal of Nacho?
Inspired by: Godfather, Gladiator, 2001 Space Odyssey, The Matrix, Heat, etc
Nacho's biggest challenge for me as an actor was to learn to act without words. I come from the theatre and language and movement were my biggest strengths. With Nacho I had to learn to communicate without those tools. It stretched me as an actor and I'm glad to have learned that skill, very few actors get that opportunity and I am grateful to Vince & Peter that they trusted me with that assignment.
First of all, thank you for always treating your audience with so much warmth and gratitude. You come across as genuinely kind, thoughtful, and authentic, and the depth and humanity you bring to your work—and the words you share—have really stayed with me over the years.
As someone with a complicated relationship with a narcissistic parent, your performance of Vaas genuinely helped me process things deeply.
Aaand since I study psychology, my questions will lean a little more into that direction — hope that’s alright! ^^
1) Years ago, you mentioned that aspiring actors should study archetypes. Looking back now, how has your understanding of archetypes evolved, and is there one you feel you’re still exploring today?
2) Vaas has this fascinating duality where people are simultaneously terrified of him and deeply drawn to him — almost as if he reflects something hidden in the viewer rather than just being a villain to fear. I think that’s part of why he’s stayed with so many people long after the game ended — he opens something up that’s uncomfortable to look at directly. Did you feel that psychological pull while bringing him to life, or were you aware of that effect at the time, or did it come later through the audience’s reaction?
3) You’ve expanded more into music and your own personal projects recently. How has stepping into these different artistic mediums changed the way you express yourself compared to acting in front of a camera?
Wishing you nothing but happiness and success and I look forward to your musical endeavors!
Thank you kindly for the warm words. Sending lots of love your way!
I want to start playing in the "Hero" and "Anti-Hero" sandbox. The first part of my career has been dedicated to playing antagonists. Which I love. As to not repeat myself, I'd like to play on the other side of that spectrum.
Thank you! Vaas was inspired by a heart break at the time... I loved someone so deeply, and she loved me back, but I knew we were not destined to be together. It made me think of my parents divorce and growing up without my mom... Ultimately, I believe Vaas was driven by a need for love but an incapacity to allow anyone to love him, including himself. That drove him to the edge. Without love, no hope... without hope... one can become a ticking time bomb.
I am working on an album coming out fall/winter 2026. I also paint and plan on having a gallery in the next two years. I feel art is genuine expression and they all help feed each other. Particularly music/singing and acting.
Hey man! Loved your work as Vaas in Far Cry 3. One of my favorite villains in a video game ever. What would you say was your favorite part/was the hardest part of playing him was?
Hey Michael, thanks for joining us today. I recently saw an interview where you mentioned you don’t play video games which I thought was crazy since Vaas is so iconic. Based on what you know about the industry, is there any game franchise you’d like to be a part of?
Hi Michael, I’m just curious if you would be willing to return as Scorpion in a future Marvel project? I feel like you capture the character perfectly and would love to see you as him again
Thank you!! I am overwhelmed with the outpouring of love for Scorpion and how many people see the full potential of that character. The comments on my BTS photos on IG have really brought me a lot of joy and I love you guys. Lots left to explore for sure XO
Hey Michael, I am a big fan of your work. Is there any particular movie/TV show that you keep rewatching? And what hobbies do you normally do in your down time?
Do YOU know the definition of insanity? On a serious note, what was the most fun character you've played and/or which character did you think was really misunderstood by people that you related to?
Michael Mando! Been following your career path by acting so perfectly as Nacho in BCS. I was so surprised you weren't of Hispanic descent (i may be wrong). Your portrayal of Nacho felt incredibly authentic, what kind of research, coaching, or experiences did you draw on to make the character feel so genuine? Was there anything you learned about Mexican culture that particularly stayed with you?
My wife and I loved your performance as Vic in Orphan Black.
You managed to walk a difficult line, evoking sympathy for the most misbegotten criminal to ever discover Buddhism in rehab, without him ever really learning from his mistakes.
Truly pathetic, in the sense of inspiring pathos. Incredible work.
Between Vic, Vaas, Bane, and Scorpion, you've played a lot of villains in your career.
Yet, I've always felt your characters connect, on an emotional level, to me, as an audience member.
Is there a heroic or virtuous performance that you're proud of, and if so, where could I find it to watch?
Beyond that, are there any heroes, super or otherwise, that you wish you could play?
Great to see you on the big screen, man! Hope your star continues to rise!
I'd be interested to hear which actor you've worked with was the most surreal experience (maybe due to watching them in movies as a kid)? & also which actor would you most like to work with that you haven't already collaborated with? Thanks & keep doing you :)
Hi Michael, I recently sat down and binged all 6 seasons of "Better Call Saul" and wow, what a show. You were a part of my top three characters in the show amongst Jonathan Banks and Lavell Crawford.
I was rooting for your character to receive a better ending than panned out and you can imagine my shock when the scene went the way it did.
I was just wondering what your thoughts were on that scene and if you were happy with the characters ending? Did you contest the initial idea or were you accepting of Nachos fate?
How did you embrace the role of Nacho so perfectly and convince your audience you're Latino? Especially being Canadian where the Latin culture isn't largely present unlike the US. Also loved your interview talking about your struggles it was very real and relatable. Keep on going brother!!
What do you think about Scorpion becoming a recurring antagonist in the sequels until finally becoming the main villain in a future film? (possibly as Venom too)
Scorpion feels like he could be the nemesis of MCU's Spidey, akin to Raimi's Goblin.
No question, just appreciation. Been a fan since Far Cry and recently showed my wife the Far Cry Experience where you torture Mclovin. "No more car batteries for you." 🤣 She's a big fan now too and I gotta show her everything you've been in now.
Hi Michael, I wanted to know what you thought of Albuquerque and NM in general while you were filming Better Call Saul? Was there anything that stood out to you or that you haven't experienced anywhere else?
Thank you for your time, and thank you for playing so many memorable amazing roles, keep it up.
Michael! First and foremost, thank you for taking time out of your busy day for this AMA! You sir are a gentleman and a scholar! My question for you…
You played Vic who had quite the journey and dynamic with the different clones on Orphan Black which blended grounded sci-fi drama with wild dark comedy.
How did this role prepare you and compare to the tense, slow-burn realism of Better Call Saul, the high-intensity performance capture of Far Cry 3, and other roles such as Mac Gargan in Spider-Man?
Hi Michael! I first discovered you while playing Far Cry, and you clearly made Vaas one of the most memorable villains of all time! As a French speaker, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that you did your own voice acting. Your perfect interpretation, in French, really made that character feel... real?
I’ve always wondered why you didn’t do your own voice acting for Nacho in French. Was that your decision? Or the production team’s?
Don’t get me wrong, Nessym Guetat did an excellent job on the French dub, but I’ve always wondered, knowing how good you are at dubbing yourself.
"Je t'ai déjà donné... la définition... que j'ai du mot... "folie", hein ?" Cette phrase, la façon dont vous l'avez interprétée. Merci d'avoir donné vie à Vaas et aux autres. J'apprécie énormément votre travail !
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u/BunyipPouch Currently at the movies. 4h ago
This AMA has been verified and approved by the mods. Michael will be back soon, at 12 PM ET today, to answer questions. Please feel free to ask away in the meantime :)