Ben Stiller Urges Viewers to Watch His Dramatic Biopic with Owen Wilson
Ben Stiller urged viewers to watch the dramatic biopic he made about Jerry Stahl, which also features Owen Wilson. The film adapts Stahl’s 1995 memoir Permanent Midnight into a raw look at addiction and Hollywood life.
From print to Hollywood
Jerry Stahl first gained notice after a Transatlantic Review short story appeared in 1976. Early work included pieces for adult magazines and ad copy for sexual supplements.
He later wrote for television shows like ALF and Moonlighting. Stahl chronicled his struggles and career in Permanent Midnight.
The film adaptation
Writer-director David Veloz adapted the memoir for the screen in 1998. Ben Stiller played Stahl in a role that surprised viewers familiar with his comedy work.
Owen Wilson appears as Nicky, a fellow addict. The supporting cast includes Elizabeth Hurley, Janeane Garofalo, Fred Willard, Connie Nielsen, and Cheryl Ladd.
Critical response
Contemporary reaction was mixed. Rotten Tomatoes shows a 60% approval rating based on 53 reviews.
Roger Ebert awarded the film three stars. Some critics, including Glen Lovell of Variety, questioned Stiller’s dramatic shift.
Noted scenes and tone
The movie does not glamorize addiction. It contains stark moments, including a scene of self-injection that underscores the film’s bleak tone.
Impact on Stahl’s career
The film’s release brought renewed attention to Stahl’s writing. He later secured higher-profile jobs in Hollywood.
Stahl contributed to major projects, including Bad Boys II and ten episodes of CSI. He also wrote episodes for Marc Maron’s 2013 sitcom Maron.
Books and later life
Stahl authored several books, including Perv: A Love Story, Plainclothes Naked, and I, Fatty. He remains active as a writer at age 72.
Stiller’s continued perspective
In a 2024 interview with Collider, Stiller said he wished more people had seen the film. He described the project as a true story he still respects.
Stiller has continued a busy career. Since 1999, he has averaged multiple film projects annually and worked behind the scenes on series like Severance for Apple TV.
Where to watch
Permanent Midnight is currently available on Prime Video. Readers can find more coverage at Filmogaz.com.
