In an exclusive interview with Vulture, actress Jessica Lange slammed the Hollywood film industry for prioritizing profits over creativity. She expressed her concern about the practice of shelving films as tax write-offs, such as Batgirl and Coyote vs. Acme by Warner Bros. Discovery. Lange argued that such practices should be illegal, stating that the industry has become more corporate-driven, with the artistic impulse often overshadowed by the profit motive.
Lange also pointed out that many of the best films of the past year were not from America, citing examples like Anatomy of a Fall. She emphasized the importance of artistic creativity in filmmaking, noting that films that leave ambiguity unresolved are rare and valuable.
Despite Hollywood’s focus on big film franchises, Lange revealed that she has never been asked to be in one. She expressed uncertainty about how she would approach such roles if offered. Despite this, Lange reflected on how technology has changed the film industry and expressed gratitude for working with legendary directors like Sydney Pollack and Costa-Gavras early in her career.
While acknowledging the inevitable changes in the industry, Lange emphasized the importance of embracing change while not dwelling on past practices. Her comments highlight a growing concern among artists and filmmakers who fear that Hollywood’s profit-driven culture is stifling creativity and innovation in filmmaking.