Ethan Hawke and Richard Linklater, two of cinema’s most innovative and collaborative voices, recently sat down at the Berlin Film Festival press conference to discuss their latest project, Blue Moon. The film, which marks their first collaboration in over a decade, has sparked a thought-provoking conversation about the role of risk-taking in art and the dangers of prioritizing profit over creativity. Hawke and Linklater, who have worked together on nine feature films, including the beloved Before trilogy and Boyhood, shared their insights on the importance of challenging audiences and the diminishing willingness to create art that pushes boundaries. Their discussion not only shed light on the themes of their new film but also offered a broader commentary on the state of artistic expression in today’s commercialized world.
At the heart of their conversation was the concept of “offensive art” and its place in modern culture. Hawke argued that for art to truly resonate, audiences must care deeply about it, even if it challenges or offends them. He emphasized that the community—whether it’s critics, viewers, or artists themselves—plays a crucial role in elevating art that provokes thoughtful conversation. “If you love offensive art and you want it, demand it,” Hawke urged. However, he noted a concerning trend: when money becomes the primary motivator, artists often compromise their vision to appeal to the widest possible audience. This leads to generic, uninspired material that avoids controversy at all costs. Hawke likened this phenomenon to a collective dance, where everyone involved in the creative process feels pressured to conform to what’s deemed safe and profitable. The result, he said, is a lack of bold, daring art that challenges societal norms.
Blue Moon itself serves as a testament to the themes Hawke and Linklater discussed. The film follows Lorenz Hart, the former creative partner of composer Richard Rodgers, as he grapples with alcoholism and depression during the opening night of Oklahoma!, Rodgers’ groundbreaking musical with Oscar Hammerstein. Hart, portrayed by Hawke, criticizes the show for its inoffensive storytelling and overly happy ending, accusing it of being escapist during a time of global turmoil—namely, World War II. This critique reflects the film’s exploration of the tension between art that comforts and art that confronts. Linklater added nuance to this idea, pointing out that while offensive art can be a product of turbulent times, movies have historically served as a form of escapism for audiences. He questioned whether there’s truly less offensive art being made today or if societal changes have simply shifted our perception of what’s acceptable. Regardless, the film challenges viewers to think about the value of art that makes us uncomfortable.
The collaboration between Hawke and Linklater is a defining feature of Blue Moon, and their long-standing partnership is a testament to their shared commitment to bold storytelling. The two have now worked together on nine feature films, a collaboration that spans decades and includes some of their most acclaimed works. Their latest project, however, was years in the making. Hawke revealed that Linklater first approached him with the idea for Blue Moon over a decade ago, but the director wanted to wait until Hawke was “less attractive” to play the role of Lorenz Hart. At first, Hawke was perplexed by this request, but he trusted Linklater’s vision and agreed to revisit the project every few years until the time was right. This unconventional approach to filmmaking highlights the unique dynamic between the two artists, who prioritize authenticity and depth over rushed production timelines.
Blue Moon also features a standout cast, including Andrew Scott as Richard Rodgers, Margaret Qualley as Elizabeth Weiland, and Bobby Cannavale as a bartender named Eddie. The film’s ensemble brings to life the complexities of Hart’s world, both on and off the stage. By focusing on a pivotal moment in Hart’s career, the film offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Oklahoma!, a musical that went on to revolutionize American theater. At the same time, it delves into the personal struggles of its protagonist, painting a nuanced portrait of a man torn between artistic integrity and the pressures of success. This duality—between the brilliance of Hart’s work and the turmoil of his personal life—underscores the film’s themes of sacrifice and the cost of creativity.
As Blue Moon premiered at the Berlin Film Festival, it became clear that the film is not just a tribute to Lorenz Hart’s legacy but also a call to action for artists and audiences alike. Hawke and Linklater’s conversation at the press conference served as a reminder of the importance of embracing art that challenges us, even when it makes us uncomfortable. In a world increasingly driven by profit and algorithms, their collaboration stands as a testament to the enduring power of bold, uncompromising creativity. By taking risks and refusing to conform, Hawke and Linklater continue to push the boundaries of what cinema can achieve, inspiring others to do the same. As their film makes its way to audiences, it serves as a timely reminder that art’s greatest strength lies in its ability to provoke, to challenge, and to spark meaningful conversations—a mission that feels as urgent now as ever.
