With only three films to his name as a writer-director, Kenneth Lonergan has already cemented himself as a modern master, chronicling the intimate and cruel truths of the human condition with a deep sense of empathy. His short but impressive filmography includes: “You Can Count On Me,” “Margaret,” and “Manchester by the Sea.”
Last year, during a Q&A session, Lonergan confirmed that he was “working on” his fourth film. Earlier this year, he added that he was writing “two screenplays,” and didn’t know which was “going to be first.”
Well, here’s some news: Kieran Culkin has been given one of those scripts. After a showing of “Glengarry Glen Ross” on Broadway, Culkin slyly mentioned to a fan that he was currently reading the script for Lonergan’s next film.
This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, as Culkin and Lonergan share a long-standing creative partnership rooted in theater, television, and cinema.
Culkin first connected with Lonergan through the playwright’s seminal work “This Is Our Youth,” performing in multiple major productions, including the Broadway revival. The actor also appeared in Lonergan’s Off-Broadway play “The Starry Messenger” and had a small role in his film “Margaret.”
Over the years, Lonergan has remained a supporter of Culkin’s work, attending his performances and expressing admiration for his acting, including his turn in “Succession,” which featured Culkin’s character humorously attempting to seduce Gerri—played by J. Smith-Cameron, who, you guessed it, happens to be Lonergan’s wife.
Regardless, it’s been nearly ten years since “Manchester by the Sea.” The film received widespread acclaim for its poignant exploration of grief, loss, and personal redemption. Lonergan won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.