It seems to be all about Spanish actors when it comes to tent-pole movie villains. After Javier Bardem’s memorable Salazar in the latest “Pirates” entry, award-winning actress Elena Anaya (The Skin I Live in) is one of Wonder Woman’s foe in the mega anticipated DC/Warner Bros. adaptation.

I recently enjoyed a conversation with the talented performer, were she talks about her experience bringing to life Dr. Maru, A.K.A. Dr. Poison, the other powerful women in front and behind the camera, and much more.

WONDER WOMAN is now playing in theaters nation-wide.

Was Wonder Woman part of your childhood?

I didn’t see many superhero movies when I was a kid, to be honest. My mom always made me think that I was a superheroine. She always gave me the freedom and support necessary to pursue my dreams and do whatever would make me happy. Having self-confidence is very important. But I am also a tiny being, full of insecurities.

This is your first Hollywood blockbuster since 2004’s Van Helsing. Is there a reason why?

I don’t know. An actor’s career isn’t just built with box-office hits. I have been working non-stop, but doing more personal, independent films. For example, being the protagonist in a Pedro Almodóvar film. But I am very proud of being part of a movie that brings to life such an iconic, female comic-book character.

How did you and Director Patty Jenkins craft this character?

Patty is very approachable and smart woman. All the actors constantly bombarded her with questions, and she always had a perfect answer, and a smile. That can be very difficult in such a big project, with so many people involved.

You are wearing a mask again, like in The Skin I live in. Which one was more uncomfortable?

They were very different. The mask from The Skin I live in was custom-made from a semi-rigid latex, and it made my face feel hot after a while. In this movie I wear adhesive prosthetics, that were a little bit uncomfortable, but immensely helpful in terms of getting into Dr. Poison’s darkness.

How would you describe the relationship between Dr. Poison and General Ludendorff?

I think that they have a relationship based on loyalty. Ludendorff is a very tormented General that lacks self-confidence. That’s why, in part, he takes these drugs that Dr. Poison gives him. They are from different worlds, but they complement each other. These are very well-written villains.

What was your first impression after meeting Gal Gadot?

She is a very good person, positive and full of light. Also, extremely professional and tireless. She was the real-life hero of the entire crew, an amazing example. On top of being beautiful, she is physically imposing. The first time that I met her, she stood up and I was like “Oh, my god!” To play her antagonist I also had to feel very powerful.

WONDER WOMAN is now playing in theaters nation-wide.

Before she was Wonder Woman, she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior. Raised on a sheltered island paradise, when an American pilot crashes on their shores and tells of a massive conflict raging in the outside world, Diana leaves her home, convinced she can stop the threat. Fighting alongside man in a war to end all wars, Diana will discover her full powers and her true destiny.