Scarlett Johansson brings mystery, glamour and a surprising musical dimension to Ray Gunn, Brad Bird’s long-awaited animated film from Netflix and Skydance Animation.

During a recent virtual press conference moderated by Erik Davis, Johansson joined Bird to discuss portraying the enigmatic Venus Nova, her collaboration with singer-songwriter Kimbra and the creative process behind the film.

Finding the Many Sides of Venus Nova

Johansson voices Venus Nova, a multimedia superstar caught up in a mystery involving private investigator Raymond Gunn (Sam Rockwell), aliens and murder in the futuristic city of Metropia.

For Johansson, the challenge was capturing the contrast between Venus's larger-than-life public persona and her more vulnerable private identity. She and Bird explored how the character's voice changes depending on whether she's performing for an audience, interacting with Ray or revealing her true feelings.

Johansson also revealed that Bird frequently performed opposite her during recording sessions, allowing her to respond to his expressions and physical performance as they developed the character together.

Creating Chemistry With Sam Rockwell

The relationship between Venus and Ray draws inspiration from the sharp dialogue and romantic tension of classic Hollywood detective films.

Johansson explained that her longtime friendship with Rockwell helped establish their characters' playful chemistry. Recording together allowed them to experiment with different deliveries, while additional sessions with Bird helped refine individual moments.

Bird cited His Girl Friday and To Have and Have Not as influences on the film's witty exchanges.

Finding Venus Nova's Voice Through Music

Johansson also performs original songs written and produced by New Zealand singer-songwriter Kimbra, adding another dimension to Venus's personality.

The actress admitted that recording the music felt particularly exposing and technically demanding. The songs evolve alongside the character, moving from catchy pop performances to more emotional moments that reveal her vulnerability.

Johansson praised Kimbra for writing from Venus's perspective, describing the character as a creative collaboration between them.

The Woman Behind the Mask

Beyond the mystery and music, Johansson sees Venus as a character struggling to reconcile her public image with her true identity.

She connected that experience to the different versions of ourselves people present in everyday life, while Bird emphasized how trust allows someone to reveal their more authentic side.

Johansson also shared her reaction to seeing the completed film for the first time at its London Film Festival premiere, describing the experience as unexpectedly moving.

For the actress, the film's striking visuals and emotional storytelling make Ray Gunn an experience that extends beyond its animated spectacle.

Ray Gunn opens in select theaters December 4 before premiering on Netflix December 18.