Mixed Reactions to Luca Guadagnino‘s “After the Hunt” at New York Film Festival
Luca Guadagnino’s latest film, “After the Hunt,” has sparked a wave of divided opinions since its premiere at the Venice Film Festival in late August. While the film showcases strong performances and impressive filmmaking, critics have expressed confusion over the screenplay, penned by first-time writer Nora Garrett. The narrative grapples with complex themes such as privilege, power dynamics, and the aftermath of the #MeToo movement within the academic sphere. As the film made its debut as the opening night gala at the New York Film Festival (NYFF), the question loomed: could it find a more favorable reception this time around?
A Controversial Narrative
“After the Hunt” centers on a Yale philosophy professor, played by Julia Roberts, who becomes embroiled in a sexual assault accusation involving her Black student (Ayo Edebiri) and a white colleague (Andrew Garfield). The film’s exploration of sensitive topics has led to polarized reviews, with many critics noting that while the performances are commendable, the screenplay lacks coherence.
At the NYFF, held at Alice Tully Hall, the film was met with a similar mix of reactions. Critics and journalists, particularly from the millennial demographic, expressed disappointment. The film’s runtime of nearly two hours and twenty minutes was cited as a contributing factor to its perceived narrative incoherence. One journalist remarked that although the film wasn’t outright boring, its length exacerbated the confusion surrounding its plot elements. For instance, the decision of Roberts’ character to keep a revealing photograph hidden under her bathroom vanity raised eyebrows, as it seemed inconsistent with her character’s established behavior.
Historical Context and Comparisons
Guadagnino, known for his previous works such as “Call Me by Your Name” and “Bones and All,” has a history of films that have garnered critical acclaim. However, “After the Hunt” appears to be struggling to find its footing in the same way. The film’s thematic exploration of trauma and generational differences has been noted by some critics as a redeeming quality. The juxtaposition of Roberts’ character, who is implied to be twice the age of Edebiri’s character, offers a lens through which to examine how trauma is processed differently across generations.
This thematic depth is reminiscent of films like “The Graduate,” which also tackled generational divides and societal expectations. However, unlike the clear narrative arc of that classic, “After the Hunt” seems to falter in delivering a cohesive story, leaving audiences and critics alike questioning its intentions.
The Awards Race
Despite the mixed reviews, “After the Hunt” is positioned as a potential contender in the upcoming awards season. Amazon MGM Studios is banking on the film to be a strong player in the Oscar race, particularly with hopes for a Best Actress nomination for Julia Roberts. Her previous win for “Erin Brockovich” in 2001 and a nomination for “August: Osage County” in 2014 add weight to these expectations. However, the film’s reception at festivals may influence its chances as it moves forward.
The Golden Globes, which have undergone significant changes in recent years, could also play a pivotal role in the film’s success. The international makeup of the voting body may resonate more with the film’s themes, especially among audiences who may not have grown up in the same cultural context as the film’s narrative. Roberts’ history with the Globes, having won three times from ten nominations, could further bolster the film’s chances.
Audience Reception and Future Prospects
As “After the Hunt” prepares for its theatrical release on October 10, followed by a nationwide rollout on October 17, the response from general audiences will be crucial. The film’s eventual availability on Amazon Prime Video may also provide it with a second chance to connect with viewers. Fans of the cast and Guadagnino may find the film more accessible in a home-viewing setting, where they can engage with the material at their own pace.
The film’s exploration of contemporary issues, such as the complexities of privilege and the nuances of trauma, may resonate differently with various demographics. As social media continues to shape public discourse, clips and discussions surrounding the film could lead to a renewed interest and a more favorable reevaluation.
Conclusion
“After the Hunt” stands at a crossroads, grappling with its identity amid a landscape of mixed reviews and critical scrutiny. While the film showcases the talents of its cast and the directorial vision of Guadagnino, its narrative coherence remains a point of contention. As it embarks on its journey through the awards circuit and into theaters, the film’s ability to resonate with audiences will ultimately determine its legacy. Whether it becomes a cultural touchstone or fades into obscurity remains to be seen, but its exploration of timely themes ensures that it will continue to spark conversation in the months to come.
