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Baumbach’s Jay Kelly Draws Fresh Readings as Clooney Drama Streams on Netflix

Critics are probing Baumbach's L.A. obsessions through a mentor homage that recalls Peter Bogdanovich.

Overview

  • The film debuted on Netflix on Dec. 5 after a brief theatrical run, extending its awards-season visibility.
  • George Clooney stars as an aging A-lister who leaves a production to trail his daughter across Europe en route to a career tribute in Italy.
  • Adam Sandler and Laura Dern play the star's longtime manager and publicist, with Emily Mortimer credited as co-writer and appearing on screen.
  • Coverage identifies Jim Broadbent’s mentor character, Peter Schneider, as a thinly veiled echo of director Peter Bogdanovich.
  • Recent analysis highlights Baumbach’s preoccupation with Los Angeles, the film’s reflections on fame and fatherhood, and a tribute sequence that incorporates real clips from Clooney’s past work.