Jay Kelly is an interesting movie that explores what it really means to be famous today. Does Hollywood actually make dreams come true? George Clooney plays an actor named Jay Kelly who closely examines his career and relationships after wrapping up another blockbuster.
With limited time off between projects, Jay Kelly manages to do a lot of self-reflection and inner work. First, his mentor dies, then he reconnects with his old roommate and suddenly he becomes spontaneous. Jay Kelly books a private jet last minute to intrude on his daughter’s summer Euro trip, but he can’t escape his intrusive thoughts.
You can’t run away from champagne problems! George Clooney spends several scenes running in the woods and I’m curious if all the exercise earns him a trophy at the Golden Globes.
Jay’s daughter Daisy (Grace Edwards) points out how he’s never alone because he’s always surrounded by his team. However, I think they showed too many people in his entourage. I don’t like when movies introduce too many minor characters you don’t need to keep track of. His manager (Adam Sandler), publicist (Laura Dern) and bodyguard would’ve sufficed.
Adam Sandler and Laura Dern’s kissing scene is horrifying to watch because it ignores a major peanut allergy risk. I don’t care where you are in the world or how romantic it seems – your health and safety need to come first!
Adam Sandler doesn’t just have a more dramatic role, he also has the wardrobe to back him up. He looks really polished in button down shirts and puffer vests, which makes you take him seriously even though Jay Kelly takes him for granted.
There are a few female stars who are fun to see pop up:
Director Noah Baumbach’s wife Greta Gerwig plays Adam Sandler’s wife in the movie. She takes care of his family while he takes care of Jay Kelly and plans his whole life around him.
Riley Keough plays Jay Kelly’s eldest daughter. Growing up in one of the most famous families as Elvis Presley’s granddaughter, she brings firsthand frustration to the role.
You’ll also recognize Isla Fisher as an actor’s wife and Eve Hewson as Jay Kelly’s dreamy costar.
By presenting a wide range of perspectives, Noah Baumbach offers a layered approach to analyzing who’s who in the entertainment industry. After travelling the world and confronting his memories, what will it take for Jay Kelly to stay grounded when he returns to LA?
Jay Kelly is now available to watch on Netflix.
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