Filmmaker Richard Linklater recently shared new details about his long-anticipated project set in 19th-century America, a period he describes as pivotal for the country’s cultural and political awakening. In an interview with Filmmaker Magazine, Linklater revealed the film will explore the lives of transcendentalists and radicals like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, with Ethan Hawke and Natalie Portman starring. This Richard Linklater 19th-century project aims to capture a critical era of reform and early activism.
Exploring America’s Early Reformers and Intellectuals
Linklater described the film as a historical exploration focusing on the transcendentalists—figures who were early advocates for feminism, abolitionism, and environmentalism in the 1830s and 1840s. The director characterized these reformers as
“the hippies of the 1830s and 40s,”
reacting to what they saw as a problematic nation under President Andrew Jackson. The film intends to portray these idealists’ hope and activism as they sought to improve America’s future.
“I’m trying to make a bigger historical thing from the 19th century [about] the transcendentalists — Emerson, Margaret Fuller, Thoreau. The 19th-century American radicals,”
Linklater said.
“The hippies of the 1830s and 40s, the beginnings of feminism, environmentalism, abolitionism, all that. They’ve got a shitty president, Andrew Jackson. There’s a lot to complain about in our young country, a lot to be corrected and made better. Early reformers who are optimistic about this young country’s future. I’m going to drop in on the 19th century, and hang out with them.”
— Richard Linklater, Director
The setting revolves around Concord and Cambridge, Massachusetts, home to the transcendentalists and editors of The Dial, America’s first major literary magazine. This cultural hub was a hotbed of early critical thought on the young nation’s developing identity, which Linklater believes is rich ground for storytelling.
Notable Cast and Long-Held Ambitions
This project has been brewing in Linklater’s mind for over two decades, and now several notable actors have expressed interest. Natalie Portman reportedly wants to portray Margaret Fuller, a prominent 19th-century feminist and writer, while Ethan Hawke will embody Ralph Waldo Emerson. Oscar Isaac’s involvement is also rumored, though this would mark a first collaboration with Linklater. The director conveyed his gratitude for the enthusiasm the project has sparked in actors and supporters alike.
“I’ve been researching this for 20-something years, so I think it’s time,”
Linklater shared.
“Natalie Portman wants to play Margaret Fuller. She’s perfect. Ethan will be Emerson. Oscar Isaac…. I think it might be coming together. People feel a certain urgency to help it in a way that I’m grateful for. Like, our country needs to see this. I don’t really care about the social impact, but that’s what attracts other people. I just want to make it.”
— Richard Linklater, Director
Despite this promising lineup and the director’s enthusiasm, funding for the project remains uncertain. Large studios may hesitate to back a film focused on American transcendentalists and early intellectual reformers, but Linklater’s track record of delivering thoughtful and original films may sway potential investors.
Context of Linklater’s Recent Works and Current Projects
Richard Linklater has maintained a busy and critically respected career, which strengthens his chances of bringing this passion project to life. He currently has two films in theaters: Blue Moon, which he promoted earlier this year at the Berlinale, and Nouvelle Vague, which debuted at Cannes. Additionally, 2023 saw the release of Hit Man, starring Glen Powell and Adria Arjona, which received favorable reviews and was acquired by Netflix.
Linklater’s career includes iconic films like Waking Life, School of Rock, and Boyhood, the latter recognized for its unique narrative style of filming actors over many years. His ongoing ambitious project Merrily We Go Along similarly captures the real-time aging of actors Paul Mescal, Beanie Feldstein, and Ben Platt through 2040, demonstrating Linklater’s commitment to innovative storytelling.
The Future of Linklater’s Historical and Collaborative Endeavors
While this 19th-century America film remains in development, Linklater, Hawke, and Julie Delpy could potentially reunite for another installment in their acclaimed Before series. Regardless, the historical narrative about transcendentalists fits well with Linklater’s style—intimate, thoughtful, and character-driven—which could attract a devoted audience despite possible limited commercial appeal.
If funding is secured, this project could ultimately provide a compelling look at America’s early reform movements through the eyes of significant cultural figures, offering both historical insight and contemporary resonance. For now, the film is a hopeful ambition with the promise of adding a career highlight to Linklater’s diverse filmography.
