Olivia Wilde recently premiered her film “The Invite” at the famed Locarno Film Festival, expressing her excitement and gratitude to the audience. Addressing the crowd gathered at Piazza Grande, home to one of the world’s largest cinema screens, she remarked, “I’m in shock. This is overwhelming and exciting.” Wilde emphasized the significance of the event as it marked the European premiere of her film, saying, “This is the first time – and probably the only time – it will be seen on a screen this big. I can’t tell you how much this means. I’m so grateful that you came tonight.”
Fighting for Theatrical Release
Earlier in the day, Wilde shared insights into her journey with “The Invite,” highlighting her determination to ensure the film received a theatrical release. “If you don’t fight for it, they ‘bribe’ you to not take theatrical. But we were really lucky that our financier gave me the opportunity to make this decision, which is something I don’t take lightly,” she explained during a press conference at the festival.
The gamble to release “The Invite” theatrically has proven successful, with Variety recently declaring it a “rare hit summer comedy.” In a glowing review, Owen Gleiberman described the film as a “bravura dinner-party dramedy that’s like ‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?’ redone as vintage Woody Allen.”
A Love Letter to Filmmaking
Wilde described her film as a “love letter to so many of the filmmakers that made us want to do this,” citing influences such as Cassavetes, Mike Nichols, Woody Allen, and Nora Ephron. She acknowledged how these filmmakers introduced her to the concept of independent cinema, which emphasizes real vulnerability.
“The Invite” stars Wilde alongside Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz, and Edward Norton, revolving around two couples at a dinner party where tensions rise and relationships are tested. Wilde cherished the collaborative nature of the project, stating, “This film is the most incredible experience of my life because it was the most collaborative project.” She elaborated that it was workshopped by the cast and screenwriters and noted its international roots as it is a remake of the extraordinary Spanish film “Sentimental.”
Comedy Amidst Tragedy
While “The Invite” delves into darker themes, humor plays a pivotal role. “First and foremost, it’s a comedy,” Wilde asserted. She explained that even the most tragic experiences can be transformed into something relatable and humorous. “There’s something about understanding the universal experience that removes shame and allows things to be funny — and survivable,” she said. She expressed her hope that audiences would find joy in the film, noting its dual nature as a narrative about heartbreak that is still “supposed to be a good time.”
Wilde also revealed her delight in witnessing audiences laugh and connect while watching the film. “I hope you guys are not too hot and that you can laugh together. The most rewarding thing about this has been hearing audiences laugh together, and maybe cry. You are allowed to cry if you want to. But it is designed to be something that will bring you joy,” she concluded, reminiscing on the laughter shared during the film’s creation. “We have to find the hilarity inside the tragic. It’s the only way.”
