Telluride Review: Noah Baumbach Creates His Own Fellini-inspired Film with Jay Kelly

      Let’s begin with the fact that Billy Crudup stands out as one of our truly exceptional actors. Early on in "Jay Kelly," penned by Noah Baumbach and Emily Mortimer and directed by Baumbach, Crudup has a one-scene appearance that propels the story forward. While having drinks, his character Timothy confronts the movie star Jay Kelly (played by George Clooney), who resembles Clooney himself, accusing him of “stealing his life.” They were once friends in acting school, but Timothy regrettably invited Jay to an important audition with a notable filmmaker (Jim Broadbent). Now, Jay Kelly has achieved fame while Timothy works as a child therapist, leading to a fistfight between them.

      This encounter thrusts Jay into an escalating existential crisis. As he grapples with these feelings, his long-suffering manager (Adam Sandler, who is delightful) and publicist (Laura Dern, who is charming) attempt to rein him in, but Jay insists on taking his entourage to Europe under the pretense of his daughter’s backpacking trip (Grace Edwards) and a tribute at an Italian film festival. In reality, he is in search of meaning, looking for justification for the choices he has made in life. He finds himself wandering through a train filled with "ordinary people," initiating conversations with strangers who recognize him solely as an action hero. Their interactions are amicable, as one would expect. However, when Jay tries to become a real-life hero in a particularly humorous moment, he feels uncomfortable and embarrassed. Flashbacks reveal his greatest loves and significant mistakes, while those in his life gradually start to drift away. Ultimately, Jay Kelly’s existence begins to pale in comparison to theirs.

      Baumbach is crafting a film reminiscent of Fellini, and it is a delight to watch. There are humorous, recurring gags involving cheesecake and a lonely man perpetually surrounded by others. Tender, regretful scenes, often featuring Sandler — the co-MVP alongside Crudup — abound. Clooney navigates both sides of his talents; he is reflective and somber during introspective moments yet playful and goofy in the few instances of physical comedy. Clooney has always had a slightly shaky mid-range when playing it straight. Ironically, although he possesses the quintessential matinee idol look, he shines best when subverting that image with elements of absurdity or starkness. This film encompasses both aspects, expertly directed by Baumbach.

      The supporting cast, which includes Patrick Wilson, Greta Gerwig, and Mortimer herself, alongside a commendable performance from Riley Keough as Jay’s older, neglected daughter, adds depth to the film. Cinematographer Linus Sandgren creates a subtly dramatic visual style, with shadows encroaching upon Jay as he sinks deeper into self-doubt. Although the film's final act drags slightly, it still showcases some of the most beautifully crafted shots by Sandgren.

      Everything builds to a closing scene that cleverly utilizes nostalgia. The autobiographical nature of Jay Kelly for Clooney and Baumbach is unmistakable. Both are accomplished artists who have received their fair share of accolades (Baumbach was honored at this very festival in Telluride). Their contributions to the arts hold significant value. Hasn't it?

      "Jay Kelly" premiered at the 2025 Telluride Film Festival and will be released in theaters on November 14 before arriving on Netflix on December 5.