Madelyn Miranda plays a young Dora in James Bobin’s adventure film, Dora And The Lost City Of Gold.
Close-up Culture’s James Prestridge caught up with Madelyn to learn more about this big role, working with Eva Longoria, being adventurous away from the camera, and much more.
Q: How did it feel to see yourself in the trailer for one of the biggest films of the summer?
A: The first time I saw myself on the trailer was when I went to see another movie in the theater and I couldn’t believe it. It was me on the big screen! That’s a moment I will never forget.
Q: What does it mean to you to play Dora and be part of her big-screen debut?
A: I grew up watching Dora The Explorer so to be able to play Dora was a dream job. She’s an icon who is known around the world and so many people grew up watching her. Being in her costume and talking like her was all so exciting for me.
Q: Your on-screen family includes Eva Longoria, Michael Peña and Malachi Barton. How much fun did you have working with them?
A: They were all so nice and easy to work with. Eva Longoria really felt like a mom to me because she’s always so lovable. Michael Pena was always making everyone laugh off and on set. Malachi and I got along from the start when we met at the airport. We really became best friends and spent a lot of time together.
While on set we would spend a lot of time with the cast and crew making up songs and playing games. We all really became like family.
Q: The older version of Dora is played by Isabela Moner. Have you met her yet?
A: Unfortunately I wasn’t able to work with Isabela, but I did spend some time with her while schooling and also took some pictures with her while in the Dora costume. We really do look a lot alike!
Q: I hear you are just as adventurous and active as Dora. What do you like to get up to away from the camera?
A: I am as adventurous as Dora. I love to travel, see new places and try new things. Anything outdoors is fun for me. My favorite trips are camping and swimming. I also love to ride my dirt bike.
Q: You recently posted on Instagram wearing a ‘Stranger Things’ t-shirt. Is that a show you’d love to appear on in the future?
A: I would love to appear on Stranger Things. That’s my favorite show right now. All the actors are great and I love how the show always keeps you wondering what’s going to happen next. Also fighting demons sounds like a lot of fun.
Q: What are your hopes for the future?
A: I hope to continue working as an actor on some fun movies and keep traveling.
Title photo by Shandon photography