In a recent interview with Vulture, actress and director Jessica Lange criticized the Hollywood film industry for valuing profits over creativity. Lange specifically called out Warner Bros. Discovery for shelving films like Batgirl and Coyote vs. Acme for tax write-offs, arguing that such practices undermine the artistic process in the industry.
Lange emphasized that many films are now driven by a profit motive rather than an artistic impulse. She praised foreign films like Anatomy of a Fall, which she said explore ambiguity in storytelling, something that is often overlooked in mainstream Hollywood productions.
Lange also bemoaned the prevalence of big franchises in Hollywood, noting that despite her respect for the craft, she has not been approached to star in any franchise movies as she wouldn’t know what to do with such roles.
Looking back on her career, Lange reminisced about the days when filmmaking involved meticulous attention to detail and waiting for hours on set to get the lighting just right. She contrasted this slower, more deliberate process with the fast-paced digital age, where cinematographers no longer have the time to craft each shot.
Despite her concerns about the changing landscape of the industry, Lange expressed gratitude for the opportunities she had to work with renowned filmmakers early in her career. She acknowledged the inevitability of change but reflected on how the industry’s shift towards profit-driven strategies has impacted the creative process.
Overall, Lange’s comments highlight a growing frustration among artists and creatives in Hollywood who feel that corporate interests are overshadowing their work. As technology continues to advance and streaming platforms dominate the industry, it remains to be seen how filmmakers will navigate these changes while still staying true to their artistic vision.
