George Clooney’s Netflix comedy Jay Kelly has debuted at the Venice Film Festival, and critics are sharing their insights on this latest film from Noah Baumbach.
Critics Weigh In on Netflix’s ‘Jay Kelly’
George Clooney‘s Netflix comedy Jay Kelly premiered at the Venice Film Festival on Thursday evening, and critics are beginning to share their thoughts.
Plot Overview
Noah Baumbach‘s new film follows the journey of a famous movie actor, Jay Kelly (Clooney), and his devoted manager, Ron (Adam Sandler), as they navigate an unexpectedly profound adventure through Europe. Along the way, both characters confront their choices, relationships, and the legacies they will leave behind.
Cast and Crew
Written by Baumbach and Emily Mortimer, the film features an ensemble cast that includes Laura Dern, Billy Crudup, and Riley Keough.
Critical Reception
The initial critical response has been largely positive, with many praising the performances of Clooney and Sandler. However, some outlets have noted that the film leans towards the “soft” side, with a few particularly harsh critiques emerging from the UK.
Deadline’s Pete Hammond expressed a positive view, stating that the film “manages to find its own identity in the movies-about-movies genre, making it fresh, smart, and quite welcome.” He commended Clooney for delivering some of his best screen acting, while also praising Sandler’s portrayal of Ron, who must reclaim his own identity amidst his intertwined life with Jay.
Tim Grierson from Screen International appreciated Clooney’s performance, noting his “old-school Hollywood handsomeness” combined with a vulnerability that makes Jay a complex character. However, he pointed out that the film’s comedic tone sometimes feels uneven.
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Bilge Ebiri at Vulture remarked that Clooney “delivers the performance of a lifetime,” while The Independent highlighted the actor’s ability to reveal a more raw side of himself in this film, ultimately tugging at the heartstrings.
In contrast, Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian gave the film a disappointing one out of five stars, criticizing it for lacking originality and being overly sentimental.
The Wrap praised Clooney’s performance as a pampered movie star, stating that Baumbach successfully balances comedy with deeper themes.
Loud and Clear awarded the film five stars, commending the cast and the film’s message about embracing illusions.
IndieWire rated the film a B-, describing it as “soft and sad,” and noting that it feels lost in its narrative direction.
Despite missing the Venice press conference due to a sinus infection, Clooney attended the world premiere later that evening.
