When director Pierre Morel and producer Luc Besson began casting District 13 , they needed actors who could actually fight. David Belle was a co-founder of parkour. Cyril Raffaelli was a world champion in martial arts tricking. For the role of Ally, they needed a woman who could match their intensity without stunt doubles. Dany Verissimo walked into the audition, and within minutes, it was clear: she was Ally Mac Tyana.

Verissimo’s journey to mainstream stardom was unique. After leaving the adult industry in 2003, she was discovered by legendary French producer , who reportedly became interested in her after seeing her in a documentary. Besson was so impressed by her screen presence that he had the role of Lola in District 13 written specifically for her . Behind the Scenes of District 13

(also known by the pseudonym ) in the cult classic action film District 13 ( Banlieue 13 ). Identity and Origins