George Clooney’s latest film, Jay Kelly, premiered at the Venice Film Festival this week and it has already garnered rave reviews from critics. The two-time Academy Award winner delivers a career-defining performance in this new film directed by Noah Baumbach. With a star-studded cast that includes Adam Sandler, Laura Dern, Emily Mortimer, and Greta Gerwig, Jay Kelly is a must-watch for all movie lovers.
The movie follows the journey of a famous Hollywood actor, played by Clooney, as he embarks on a trip through Europe with his manager. Along the way, they confront their life choices and reflect on the legacy they have created. Many critics have interpreted Clooney’s role in Jay Kelly as a meta-commentary on his own career, making it a deeply personal and poignant performance.
The Times gives the film a solid 4 out of 5 stars and declares it an “Oscar alert!” Clooney’s portrayal of an aging Hollywood A-lister suffering from a midlife crisis is being hailed as his best performance ever. The Telegraph gives it a perfect 5 out of 5 stars and calls it a “masterpiece” that will “reduce you to tears.” The review also suggests that Clooney may be playing a version of himself in the film, which adds to the authenticity and emotional depth of his character.
Vulture praises Clooney’s performance as “the role of a lifetime” and declares it the “performance of his life.” Deadline also commends Clooney’s acting skills and states that the film manages to find its own identity in the often overdone genre of movies-about-movies. TheWrap echoes the sentiment, stating that Clooney is “damn good” at playing a pampered movie star and that Baumbach has once again struck the perfect balance between comedy and thought-provoking drama.
Little White Lies describes Jay Kelly as a charming and wistful take on the myth of celebrity. While the film may not break new ground, it is a refreshing and honest portrayal of the struggles and vulnerabilities of those in the limelight. Variety, on the other hand, has a slightly different take on the film, calling it “overly soft” and “diverting” but lacking in depth.
IndieWire gives the film a B- and praises Clooney for his performance, stating that “no one does Clooney better.” However, the review also points out that Clooney’s star power may have hindered the believability of his character. Radio Times gives the film a 3 out of 5 stars and notes that while Clooney’s performance is glossy and navel-gazing, it is Adam Sandler who steals the show with his nuanced acting.
The Hollywood Reporter also highlights Sandler’s standout performance and calls Jay Kelly a “sentimental comedy-drama.” The review also praises the talented supporting cast and states that the film is a mid-tier effort from Baumbach. However, The Daily Mail gives the film a disappointing 2 out of 5 stars and calls it a “real bore.” The review suggests that the film’s attempt to turn the mirror on the movie industry falls flat and fails to evoke any emotion from the audience.
The Guardian gives the film a dismal 1 out of 5 stars and declares it a “dire Noah Baumbach effort.” The review criticizes the film for being overly sentimental and self-indulgent, with Clooney’s character being described as “affable” but ultimately unconvincing. Despite the mixed reviews, one thing is clear – George Clooney’s performance in Jay Kelly is not to be missed.
The film is set to release in cinemas in November and will be available on Netflix in December. With Clooney’s stellar performance and a talented supporting cast, Jay Kelly is a must-watch for anyone who loves thought-provoking and emotionally charged films. So mark your calendars and get ready to witness George Clooney at his best in Jay Kelly.
