Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk was supposed to be an Oscar contender. It’s directed by Ang Lee who has two Oscars. It’s based on an acclaimed book of the same name. The film uses new technology that’s supposed to be the future of filmmaking. So there were big expectations for its world premiere at the New York Film Festival. Unfortunately, many of the critics were underwhelmed. And, ironically, many reviewers felt that the tech actually took away from the story. So, unless Billy Lynn really makes a statement at the box office – and it’s out for US Thanksgiving so it’s not impossible – its Oscar chances are probably weaker now after the festival.
Here’s the cast in New York promoting the film. Of all the reviews I read, Kristen Stewart seems to be the standout, with several critics pointing out that her scenes carry the most emotional weight. After a short trip to Paris last week, Kristen was back in NYC and was seen again with St Vincent. And it’s not like they don’t know that their relationship was confirmed by US Weekly just a few days ago. So. It’s as good as official, really.
Can we talk about Garrett Hedlund though? Just before the start of the New York Film Festival, I wrote that I was hoping we might get some shots of Garrett and Charlie Hunnam together. Charlie couldn’t make it but here’s Garrett holding it down on his own.
