During the 79th edition of the Locarno Film Festival, Olivia Wilde engaged with the international press ahead of the screening of her latest directorial venture, The Invite. Set to be showcased in the festival’s iconic Piazza Grande, the film emphasizes Wilde’s commitment to ensuring that it reaches theatrical audiences.
The Call for Theatrical Releases
Wilde was candid when discussing the industry’s growing preference for streaming platforms over traditional cinema. “They bribe you to not take theatrical,” she remarked, expressing her determination to fight for the film’s theatrical release. She elaborated, stating, “It’s a bribe. They pay you more… the financiers will get a lot more money to go to streaming, and you can take that bribe and give that up if that’s where your priorities lie.” Fortunately, Wilde’s financier allowed her the flexibility to choose cinema, a decision she does not take lightly, acknowledging that it could have easily gone the other way.
Support from Distributors
Acknowledging her collaborators, Wilde praised A24 for their commitment to theatrical distribution. “A24 has been extraordinary because they really believe in the theatrical game,” she shared. She also highlighted FilmNation’s role in securing international theatrical deals, expressing her gratitude towards all distributors supporting the film’s cinema run.
The Importance of the Shared Experience
Wilde emphasized the unique communal experience that audiences gain from watching comedies in theaters, noting that the genre often gets relegated to a “second tier” that doesn’t reflect its cinematic value. She and her team aimed to create a “chemical reaction” from audiences, ensuring the film resonated in a communal setting.
A Personal Transformation
Reflecting on what she learned from creating The Invite, Wilde described how the process made her “so much more romantic,” saying it “melted the cynic out of me.” The film, which tackles the complexities of relationships, invites viewers to contemplate the “ridiculous experiment of co-habitation” and confront the societal stigma surrounding relationship failures.
The Stellar Cast and Collaborative Spirit
Written by Will McCormack and Rashida Jones, The Invite features a notable cast including Wilde, Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz, and Edward Norton. Wilde characterized the experience of working with her co-stars as uniquely collaborative, likening it to being part of a “jazz quartet.”
Wilde’s Passion for Directing
When asked about her enjoyment of directing, Wilde enthusiastically declared, “Directing is the greatest job in the world,” further illustrating her passion for the craft.
A Sold-Out Screening
Anticipation for the evening’s screening was palpable, with the festival announcing that the Piazza Grande event was sold out. An email from the festival urged attendees to arrive early, indicating that high attendance was expected.
As Wilde’s film prepares for its big night, the blend of personal insights and industry advocacy makes for an engaging narrative both on and off the screen.
