In a recent interview with Vulture, actress Jessica Lange criticized the Hollywood film industry for prioritizing profits over creativity. She expressed concern over the practice of shelving films as tax write-offs like Batgirl and Coyote vs. Acme by Warner Bros. Discovery, arguing that such practices should be against the law.
Lange argued that many of the best films of the past year are not from America, citing examples like Anatomy of a Fall. She emphasized the importance of artistic creativity in filmmaking and pointed out that many films leave ambiguity unresolved, which she believes is essential to a good movie. Despite Hollywood’s focus on big film franchises, Lange shared that she has never been asked to be in one, expressing uncertainty about how she would approach such roles if offered.
Reflecting on how technology has changed the film industry, Lange recalled waiting for hours on set for the cinematographer to perfect lighting in days gone by. In contrast, she expressed gratitude for working with digital technology today and embraced change while acknowledging past practices’ inevitable changes in the industry.
Overall, Lange’s critique highlights the challenges faced by artists who must balance their creative impulses with profit motives in an increasingly corporate-driven industry. As someone who has had a successful career spanning several decades, Lange offers valuable insights into how artists can navigate these challenges while still pursuing their craft.