Noah Baumbach co-writes and directs the 2025 buddy movie Jay Kelly. It is really more than a buddy movie, of sorts, it’s about stardom. The journey, seen through the eyes of the titular “hero” of the film, via flashbacks. There are other devices involved. Some of which almost make it feel like Jay has died and is reliving his life in the “afterlife.”
*Baumbach shares writing credit with Emily Mortimer (A long time personal favourite.) who also works in the picture.*
Jay Kelly Story
Movie star Jay Kelly is at a crossroads of fame, anxiety and regret. His journey consists of trying to connect with his children and his friend and manager Ron.
Jay Kelly Cast
George Clooney is Jay Kelly.
Adam Sandler is Ron Sukenick.
Emily Mortimer is Candy.
Laura Dern is Liz.
Greta Gerwig is Lois Sukenick.
Sadie Sandler is Vivienne Sukenick.
Billy Crudup is Timothy.
Riley Keough is Jessica Kelly.
Grace Edwards is Daisy.
Kick Arse Cameos
Jim Broadbent is Peter Schneider.
Lenny Henry is Larry.
Isla Fisher is Melanie Alcock.
Patrick Wilson is Ben Alcock.
Stacy Keach is Jay’s dad.
Let’s Talk Jay Kelly
George Clooney is the American, modern day, equivalent to Bristol born Cary Grant. Like Grant, Clooney has aged like a fine wine. His presence in a film guarantees a certain touch of class, an expert performance. Regardless of what film Clooney does, he aces his character(s).
Adam Sandler has always been a on again/off again standing. I adored him in some, emphasis on some, movies. This one, however, took me straight to fandom. Sandler can really act, like he needs my approval, his role as Jay’s buddy and manager was deep, insightful and almost tragic. If he does not get an Oscar nod for this one, there is no justice.
None.
This awareness of self; this journey, feels like a cross between Babylon and The Hero. The first film, which felt like a big screen version of Kenneth Anger’s book Hollywood Babylon and the latter a love letter to Sam Elliot, were about fame. They were both about the vagaries of Hollywood. All three films leave the viewer feeling ultimately sad. Although Jay Kelly ends on a brilliant note.
It All Works
Jay Kelly is, to a huge extent, self referential. A scene on a French train with Jay and his daughter Daisy for example. Her new boyfriend is, she says, a singer and a filmmaker. She wants to go with him and be in his new film. Guigui, the new fella in her life, explains to Jay that the movie is a small one. “It’s just a little thing about memories and dreams.” This encapsulates Jay Kelly in just nine words. If that is not brilliance, I don’t know what is.
This 132 minute film is a loving look at Clooney and his character’s relationships and life. One almost feels that this could well be his “swan song.” He could easily retire after this one.
Jay Kelly looks beautiful. DP Linus Sandgren almost applies an artist’s brush to each scene. His frames make the most of the lush european locations and the lighting is spot on. Editors Valerio Bonelli and Rachel Durance put it all together with master craftsman’s touch. The musical score by Nicholas Britell matches each and every scene perfectly.
Everything here bespeaks of a career high for both Clooney and Sandler. This is a film to love.
The Verdict
Jay Kelly is a solid 5 star film. It is, at times, heart warming and other times it is heartbreaking. Above all, the film is breathtaking in its depth and emotional up and downs. It is streaming on Netflix right now. Watch this and be prepared to enjoy and marvel at this film.
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