Richard Linklater, the acclaimed director known for films like 'Boyhood' and 'Before Sunset', has announced his plans to shoot a French-language film in Paris. Linklater has expressed his desire to create a New Wave-style movie in the City of Lights, drawing inspiration from the rich cinematic history of France. This announcement comes after Linklater's recent success with his film 'Hit Man', which received critical acclaim and was acquired by Netflix for $20 million. Linklater's unique style and willingness to experiment with different genres have made him a beloved figure in the film industry.
Linklater has a special connection with France, having previously shot scenes for 'Before Sunset' in the country. His work has garnered a deep appreciation from French audiences, as evidenced by a retrospective dedicated to him in Paris. Now, he is set to further explore the French film landscape with his upcoming project.
Paul Schrader, the renowned director behind films like 'Taxi Driver' and 'First Reformed', is confronting mortality in his latest project titled 'O Canada'. The film, based on Russell Banks' novel 'Foregone', centers around the last days of documentary filmmaker Leonard Fife. Schrader, a longtime friend of Banks, corresponded with him until Banks' death in January 2023. During the development of the screenplay, Schrader contracted COVID-19 and faced subsequent respiratory issues. 'O Canada' explores Fife's realization that his entire life has been built on lies and his attempt to confront himself before he dies. Richard Gere portrays Fife, while Jacob Elordi plays the younger version of the character.
Schrader has recently completed a trilogy of films focused on men battling themselves, and he clarifies that 'O Canada' is not the fourth installment in the series. The film includes flashbacks to Fife's twenties and combines quiet performances with captivating storytelling techniques. Schrader's health has improved since finishing the screenplay, and he is now ready to move on to other projects.
Zach Braff, Vanessa Hudgens, and Evelyne Brochu discuss their roles in the movie 'French Girl' in a recent interview. The film follows Gordon, an English teacher in Brooklyn, and his girlfriend Sophie, who is offered a job in Quebec City. During their visit, Gordon discovers a history between Sophie's friend Ruby and Sophie. The movie was inspired by the writers and directors' parents' experiences. The cast also includes Luc Picard, who impressed Braff with his acting. Brochu expresses her desire to be part of the 'Orphan Black' world forever. Hudgens mentions her excitement for 'Bad Boys 4'. 'French Girl' is currently in theaters.
'The Birdcage', a 1996 American comedy film starring Robin Williams, was inspired by the 1978 French film 'La Cage aux Folles'. The two films share a satirical plot with funny hijinks, but 'The Birdcage' has a lighter tone and updates the characters to present a more wholesome take on the acceptance of non-traditional families. The key difference between the two films is the tone of the comedy. 'La Cage aux Folles' features more intense arguments and a physical fight between the main couple, while 'The Birdcage' has less toxic arguments and a more light-hearted relationship. The 1996 film also updates two characters, Jacob and the young fiancée, to provide more depth and a different dynamic. Robin Williams initially didn't want to do drag again in 'The Birdcage', but he eventually joined the cast alongside Nathan Lane, creating a dream team. The set design in both films reflects the ultra-conservative and gay characters, with the conservative homes being drab and lacking personality, while the drag club apartments are vibrant and liberated. 'La Cage aux Folles' feels more grounded in reality and doesn't shy away from portraying homophobic attitudes, while 'The Birdcage' presents a brighter and more wholesome story. Both films convey the powerful LGBTQ message of living authentically. 'La Cage aux Folles' remains one of the highest-grossing foreign language films released in the US and has two sequels, while 'The Birdcage' is still celebrated in queer cinema. The films offer distinct viewing experiences while sharing familiar beats and recreated scenes.
Sources:
- [Collider]
- [Variety]
- [IMDb]
- [Screen Rant]
- [IMDb]