Richard Linklater and Ethan Hawke, celebrated as one of cinema’s most enduring director-star partnerships, have reunited for their newest project, Blue Moon. Set on the night of March 31, 1943, the film delves into a pivotal evening centred around lyricist Lorenz Hart, portrayed by Hawke, during the afterparty for Richard Rodgers’ latest hit, Oklahoma!, played by Andrew Scott. This Richard Linklater Blue Moon collaboration explores a rich historical moment with layered personal tensions and evolving relationships.
Tense Afterparty Sparks Revelations and Complex Dialogues
The Blue Moon trailer hints at a charged atmosphere where Hart contends with feelings of rivalry and longing. Early in the trailer, Hawke’s Hart remarks to a barman played by Bobby Cannavale,
“We write together for a quarter of a century and the first show he writes with someone else is gonna be the biggest hit he ever had,”
followed by the candid, “Am I bitter? Yes!” This sets the tone for a night filled with intense conversations about Hart’s sexuality, his desires, and his past with Rodgers, all unfolding in Linklater’s trademark rapid-fire and witty dialogue style. The intimacy of these exchanges captures the nuances of two creative icons grappling with change and unspoken emotions.
Critical Acclaim and Notable Supporting Cast
Already praised at the Berlin Film Festival, Hawke’s portrayal of Hart is being recognized as one of his most compelling performances to date. The cast also features Simon Delaney as Oscar Hammerstein and Cillian Sullivan as Stephen Sondheim, adding further depth to the story’s strong ensemble. With Linklater’s distinctive direction and Hawke’s intense acting, Blue Moon is poised to become an essential film for fans of thoughtful historical dramas.
Release and Audience Expectations
American moviegoers can anticipate the film’s arrival in US cinemas on October 24, offering a rare glimpse into the creative and personal dynamics behind one of musical theatre’s defining moments. Meanwhile, UK audiences await announcements on the local release date, eagerly anticipating their own chance to experience this evocative night at Sardi’s alongside Hart and Rodgers. The Richard Linklater Blue Moon collaboration promises both a reflective look back at a storied past and a stirring meditation on art, fame, and friendship.
