Ethan Hawke has expressed high expectations for his upcoming film with director Richard Linklater, describing it as potentially the best of their collaborations to date. The two have worked together on nine films, including the acclaimed Before trilogy, and their next project marks a significant milestone in their long-standing partnership.
During an appearance on the Today show on January 7, 2024, Hawke discussed the film that will be their tenth collaboration. When host Craig Melvin asked him about the project, Hawke confidently stated, “Everything’s been preparation for what’s to come. The 10th is going to be the best.” His assertion drew attention for its boldness, prompting Melvin to challenge him on this claim. Hawke responded without hesitation, emphasizing that they have been conceptualizing this film since 1998.
Linklater has reportedly been developing the idea for even longer, as Hawke explained, “He’s had this dream for a long time in his head, and it’s gonna be good.” The actor went so far as to claim that the film will rank “among the greatest films ever made.” He anticipates a release in 2027 and even promised to return to the show in about 18 months to provide further details.
Period Piece Focused on American Radicals
Hawke revealed that the new movie will be a period piece, a departure from many of their previous modern settings. This aligns with comments made by Linklater in a November 2023 interview with Filmmaker magazine, where he discussed a project centered on 19th-century American transcendentalists such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Margaret Fuller, and Henry David Thoreau. Linklater mentioned the historical context, highlighting the era’s connections to early feminism, environmentalism, and abolitionism, stating, “They’ve got a s—– president, Andrew Jackson.”
The film aims to explore the radical ideas and movements of the 1830s and 40s, a time of significant social change in America.
As for casting, Linklater expressed interest in featuring Natalie Portman and Oscar Isaac in the film. At this time, it remains unclear whether either actor has officially joined the project.
Hawke’s enthusiasm for this collaboration reflects both his and Linklater’s commitment to creating thought-provoking and impactful cinema. As they prepare to embark on this new journey, fans eagerly await what they hope will be a remarkable addition to their distinguished filmography.
