Olivia Wilde Chooses Indie Path for New Sundance Comedy ‘The Invite’
Olivia Wilde embarks on a unique journey with her new project, *The Invite*, blending her directorial efforts with acting. This film, which she describes as an experiment, marks a significant departure from conventional filmmaking practices.
Innovative Filmmaking Approach
Wilde adopted an unconventional method during production. Rather than adhering to the typical shoot structure, she workshoped the screenplay with her cast for several weeks prior to filming. This involved significant collaboration with writers Rashida Jones and Will McCormack, allowing for real-time feedback and modifications.
“We’ve accepted this kind of paradigm of the way movies have to happen,” Wilde commented in an interview. She aims to challenge the traditional rules that often dictate the filmmaking process.
Star-Studded Cast
- Olivia Wilde
- Seth Rogen
- Edward Norton
- Penélope Cruz
The film centers on a couple, played by Wilde and Rogen, whose relationship is faltering. Their world is upended during a dinner party with their charismatic neighbors, portrayed by Norton and Cruz. The narrative unfolds almost entirely in one location over a runtime of 107 minutes, a format that allows for deeper character exploration.
The Concept of *The Invite*
*The Invite* is a remake of the Spanish film *Sentimental*. Wilde’s path to directing this project began years ago when she was initially approached to star. After pursuing her directorial career with *Booksmart* and *Don’t Worry Darling*, she decided to helm this production.
She quickly assembled her dream cast, recalling a prior collaboration with Rogen. Eventually, when another actress left the project, Wilde stepped in to ensure the ensemble remained intact, much to Rogen’s encouragement.
Creative Collaboration
The filming process took place at Sunset Las Palmas Studios, a location rich in television history, famously known for the pilot of *I Love Lucy*. The setting added a nostalgic touch to their comedic exploration of adult relationships.
- Filming was conducted sequentially.
- The process involved extended rehearsals and discussions on character development.
Consultation with Experts
Consulting with Esther Perel, a well-known author and psychotherapist, added depth to the film. Wilde and Cruz frequently discussed character dynamics and story nuances with Perel during lunch breaks, strengthening the narrative’s authenticity.
Aiming for Authenticity
This film represents Wilde’s return to directing, moving outside the traditional studio system. Collaborating once again with her *Booksmart* producer, Megan Ellison, the project prioritized creativity over commercial constraints.
Wilde described the production as a dream experience, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among creative minds. As filming progressed, the actors engaged in heated discussions about the film’s ending, striving for an outcome that felt genuine.
Audience Expectations
Audience members at the Sundance Film Festival will soon witness how this experimental approach translates on screen. Alongside Wilde, Rogen and Norton will be present to promote the film, with Cruz filming in Spain.
As *The Invite* explores themes of love, marriage, and monogamy, Wilde hopes to cater to mature audiences often overlooked by mainstream Hollywood. She stated, “We didn’t want to underestimate the intelligence of the audience.”
With her unique vision and collaborative spirit, Olivia Wilde’s *The Invite* promises to be a refreshing addition to contemporary cinema—one that invites discourse on relationships in a relatable format.
