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Jay Kelly
2025 132 min United States of America, United Kingdom R 12+
★6.9
Drama, Comedy
Director: Noah Baumbach
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Description
Famous movie actor Jay Kelly embarks on a journey of self-discovery, confronting both his past and present, accompanied by his devoted manager, Ron.
Starring
George Clooney
Actor
Adam Sandler
Actor
Stanley Townsend
Actor
Awards
Venice Film Festival 2025
— Golden Lion
Golden Globe 2026
— Best Supporting Actor
Golden Globe 2026
— Best Actor (Comedy or Musical)
Key opinion
Jay Kelly is a polarizing exploration of fame, mortality, and the personal sacrifices inherent in an acting career. While some viewers admire the film's sincere, contemplative character study and technical craft, others find the narrative derivative and the protagonist unengaging.
| Acting | Adam Sandler delivers a standout, grounded performance that provides much-needed sincerity to the narrative. | |
| Direction | The film features technically superb direction and editing that create a seamless, intimate link between past memories and the present. | |
| Originality | The film's exploration of an aging star's existential crisis is viewed as a compelling, honest study by some, but as a tired, self-indulgent retread of classic cinema tropes by others. | |
| Acting | George Clooney's performance divides opinion, with some praising his vulnerable, restrained portrayal of weariness while others see it as a superficial, mannered compilation of his previous roles. | |
| Pacing | The contemplative, slow-moving pace is lauded for creating a meditative atmosphere, yet criticized for leading to scenes that feel overlong and underdeveloped. |