The excitement surrounding Olivia Wilde’s latest film, “The Invite,” is palpable following its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, where an all-night bidding war erupted for the project. Wilde expressed her exhilaration during an interview at Deadline’s Sundance Studio, stating, “It was the best night of my life. To sit and laugh with that audience was just so wonderful, so full of joy; I was just levitating in my seat.”
Wilde took a unique approach to the film, which she shot on film in chronological order, likening the creative process to that of a theatrical play. She described the opportunity to workshop the film, allowing actors to immerse themselves in their characters and rehearse, as instrumental in achieving an authentic and natural feel.
In her reflections about the filmmaking process, Wilde commented on the importance of having non-negotiables in the creative journey. She recounted times when filmmakers often defer to studio executives or financial backers, saying, “This time I was like, ‘Guys, what if we just do it the way we’ve always wanted to do it?’” This empowering sentiment resonated throughout the production, contributing to Wilde’s satisfaction with the outcome.
“The Invite,” based on Spanish filmmaker Cesc Gay’s “The People Upstairs” (2020) and co-written by Will McCormack and Rashida Jones, follows a couple, Angela (Wilde) and Joe (Seth Rogen), navigating a challenging evening with their neighbors, portrayed by Penélope Cruz and Edward Norton. The film explores themes of relationships and personal connections amid tensions and comedic elements.
Rogen noted that his collaboration with Wilde stemmed from their positive experiences working together previously, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative and dynamic environment on set. He appreciated the opportunity to shape characters in tandem with fellow actors, shaping the story in a way that suited their artistic instincts.
Norton also shared his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting Wilde’s interest in blending the script’s framework with the actors’ personal experiences, allowing for a richer narrative. He illustrated this with anecdotes from rehearsals, including discussions about life changes like menopause, enhancing the film’s authenticity.
Wilde likened the collaborative process to a potluck, stating, “It’s not me making dinner and you guys sitting down and eating it; it’s a full potluck.” This sense of shared creativity fostered strong on-screen chemistry, which Rogen and Norton reinforced by recalling their previous work together and the unique dynamics it brought to their characters.
As the film garners attention at the festival, it appears poised to capture audiences with its blend of humor, depth, and an innovative storytelling approach. Wilde’s vision and the collaborative spirit of her cast and crew are working together to create a film that reflects the complexities of relationships with warmth and authenticity.