Although James L. Brooks’ recent work left me underwhelmed, it’s hard not to feel a sense of anticipation for his latest endeavor—his first film in over fifteen years.
Brooks' “Ella McCay,” which completed reshoots this past month, and has now seemingly set up an awards contending release date on December 19. The original plan was to have it open in September, but Disney/20th Century clearly had other ideas for this one.
The film has a noteworthy ensemble: Emma Mackey, Rebecca Hall, Jamie Lee Curtis, Woody Harrelson, Ayo Edebiri, Albert Brooks, Kumail Nanjiani, Jack Lowden, and Spike Fearn.
The story follows an idealistic young politician who navigates the complexities of familial responsibilities and a demanding professional life while preparing to succeed her mentor, the state's long-serving incumbent governor.
Robert Elswit is the DP on this film — he’s coming off the beautiful black & white photography he produced on Netflix’s “Ripley.” Elswit used to be Paul Thomas Anderson’s go-to cinematographer (“There Will Be Blood,” “Punch Drunk-Love”), but they sadly had a falling out during the production of “Inherent Vice.”
Brooks, 84, has directed only six films throughout his forty-year career, three of which—“Terms of Endearment,” “Broadcast News,” and “As Good As It Gets”—are widely regarded as classics. His last feature was 2010’s “How Do You Know,” which also marked Jack Nicholson’s final screen appearance.
As expected, Snyder's latest is being torn apart by TIFF attendees. No mercy given. The film, which had its world premiere this evening, is being called by some one of the worst movies to ever premiere at the festival.