Alexandra Daddario shared insights about her character in the upcoming film I Wish You All the Best, which Lionsgate will release in theaters on November 7. The actress spoke with ComingSoon about portraying a new mother who supports her estranged nonbinary sibling after they are rejected by their family. This role allowed Daddario to explore themes of kindness and resilience while working alongside Cole Sprouse and other cast members.
A Modern Coming-of-Age Tale About Self-Acceptance
The story, adapted from Mason Deaver’s best-selling novel, centers on a high school junior who comes out as nonbinary and is subsequently forced to leave their family home. With no other options, they move in with their older sister, played by Alexandra Daddario, and her husband, portrayed by Cole Sprouse. Starting at a new school, they find encouragement from an unconventional art teacher, played by Lena Dunham, and develop a special connection with a compassionate student, played by Miles Gutierrez-Riley.
The official synopsis describes the film as
“a sweetly funny journey of self-discovery that celebrates the power of being true to yourself,”
following the main character as they navigate the challenges of young adulthood through these new relationships.
Daddario Reflects on Portraying the Role of a Steadfast Mother
When asked about her character Hannah’s strength, Alexandra Daddario explained how she immediately related to the role despite filming before becoming a mother herself. She admired Hannah’s calm demeanor under pressure and her ability to support those around her without being overbearing. Daddario emphasized how the character’s approach allows her family members to grow into their best selves, highlighting the importance of kindness and patience within family dynamics.
“I shot this before I became a mother myself, but I think I was so on the track to become a mother and wanted to be a mother for so long that I immediately related to that. And I think that she’s an amazing mother because she’s able to stay calm under pressure, deal with all these different things, and support the people around her, and not be heavy-handed about it. Really just allow people to be the best version that they can be in her family. So I was very drawn to that.” — Alexandra Daddario, Actress
Tommy Dorfman’s Confident Debut as Director
This film marks Tommy Dorfman’s first time directing, and Daddario praised her for the assurance and clarity she brought to the production. Despite being a debut effort, Dorfman managed to lead the cast and crew confidently, creating a working environment free from chaos. Daddario noted that the director’s skilled leadership helped everyone feel at ease to deliver their best work, making the set an enjoyable place to be.
“I think you said it. I was incredibly impressed by her confidence, and I’ve been on a lot of sets that do not feel as confidently run, and you have a little bit of distraction or chaos because of the lack of confidence. And she is such a confident director, and allowed us to all relax and do our jobs to the best of our abilities, because coming to set every day was fun. She made it all look easy when it’s not easy at all.” — Alexandra Daddario, Actress
Cole Sprouse and Alexandra Daddario’s On-Screen Chemistry
Daddario described the dynamic between her and Cole Sprouse, who plays her husband in the film, as a particularly enjoyable experience. Sprouse’s portrayal of his character felt authentic and fatherly, which complemented Daddario’s maternal role naturally. Both actors were ready to embrace their parts wholeheartedly, resulting in a believable and engaging couple on screen. One humorous moment in the movie features Sprouse’s character referring to himself as a “brother-father” to Corey Fogelmanis’s character, adding levity to their complex family relationships.
“Yeah, we had great… I think it was, he really did such a great job being the sort of the dad and he felt like such a dad to me. I fell into that sort of mother role, and I think we were both ready to be open and to take on these roles. So it was really easy. It was really fun, and I think we bounced off each other really well.” — Alexandra Daddario, Actress
Working with Corey Fogelmanis and Other Cast Members
Daddario commended Corey Fogelmanis for his dedicated and natural performance in the film. She admired his professionalism and the strong collaborative relationship he established with director Tommy Dorfman. The thoughtful interaction between actor and director impressed Daddario, who considered herself fortunate to work alongside such a talented cast.
“Corey is an incredible actor, very devoted, very natural, all I think just incredible. Watching Corey and Tommy work with each other was beautiful as well. So I was incredibly impressed and lucky to be in a film with such an amazing actor.” — Alexandra Daddario, Actress
The Film’s Important Message Amid Book Bans
Daddario spoke about the significance of telling stories like this one, especially as the source novel by Mason Deaver has faced bans in some schools. She highlighted the diversity of human experiences and the value in sharing narratives that reflect different ways of life. For Daddario, acting provides a way to explore and communicate these perspectives, helping audiences gain empathy and understanding.
“I think it’s wonderful. I think that there are all different types of people who live all different types of ways, and that’s what being human is all about. That’s what I love about being an actress. I get to tell stories, and through art, we can learn about other people and how other people live and how other people have lived. So, it’s just for me a wonderful opportunity to tell a great story, and it’s nothing to be afraid of.” — Alexandra Daddario, Actress
Anticipation Builds Ahead of the Film’s Release
I Wish You All the Best promises to be a heartfelt exploration of identity, family, and acceptance. With strong performances from Daddario, Sprouse, Fogelmanis, and others under Tommy Dorfman’s assured direction, the movie offers a fresh take on coming-of-age challenges for today’s audiences. The story’s positive message and depiction of support networks are likely to resonate widely, making its November 7 release an important moment for fans of meaningful, character-driven films.
