Minority Mindset

Recently, many romantic movies – whether funny or serious – have heavily promoted the obvious connection between their stars. Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney almost had everyone believing they were actually a couple, and Jessie Buckley famously described her co-star Paul Mescal in very passionate terms. Even though these relationships are almost always purely professional, the publicity surrounding the films often feels like advertisements for dating apps, suggesting viewers could find a similar connection. It’s therefore surprising to hear Margot Robbie describe how she and her friends reacted intensely to her co-star. She’s repeatedly had to clarify that a romantic moment in the film was inspired by something her co-star actually did. Both Robbie and her co-star are far more engaging and appealing when they showcase their individuality. Robbie shines when sharing stories about her nights out, and her co-star is at his best when discussing his creative work. If this adaptation of Wuthering Heights truly wants to evoke strong emotions, as its marketing suggests, it should embrace the story’s wildness and unpredictability and abandon traditional filmmaking approaches.

The new series, officially named Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette, kicks off Ryan Murphy’s latest television project, an expansion of his “American Story” anthology. This means Murphy and his team can create shows in various genres, drawing from historical events and scandals for compelling stories. Originally called American Love Story, the title suggests future installments won’t be limited to American subjects. This series is a departure from the over-the-top style of American Horror Story, and more in line with the realistic approach of American Crime Story, where Murphy has done some of his best work. American Crime Story delivered hits like The People v. O.J. Simpson, The Assassination of Gianni Versace, and Impeachment, which succeeded because they combined accurate historical details with strong themes and memorable performances – like Sarah Paulson as Marcia Clark, Darren Criss as Andrew Cunanan, and Beanie Feldstein as Monica Lewinsky. Feldstein’s performance, in particular, could have become iconic if the show hadn’t had issues with its release on Hulu.