Directed by Jonathan Levine, ‘Long Shot’ is a 2019 romantic comedy featuring Charlize Theron and Seth Rogen in the lead. At the heart of the story is Charlotte Field (Charlize Theron), a U.S. Secretary of State and a presidential hopeful. Fate reunites her with Fred Flarsky (Seth Rogen), an idiosyncratic yet gifted journalist from her past. In a bid to infuse her campaign with wit and originality, Charlotte appoints Fred as her speechwriter.
As they collaborate closely, their bond transforms from friendship to a romantic relationship, navigating the challenges posed by their contrasting social standings and ways of life. The film shows how difficult it is to have a fulfilling love relationship and a thriving profession. It stresses the significance of balancing personal goals with those of one’s career. Given the film’s exploration of realistic themes of love and relationships, one might wonder if ‘Long Shot’ is based on real events. Here are the facts.
Long Shot is an Original Creation
The concept for the movie is an original creation of write-director Jonathan Levine, who’s a well-known name in the industry for directing movies like ’50/50′, ‘The Wackness,’ ‘Warm Bodies,’ and more. The depth of the story owes itself to the creative prowess of not only Levine but also the talented penmanship of Dan Sterling and Liz Hannah. Together, they breathe life into the story, intertwining their unique perspectives and storytelling finesse to deliver a movie that captivates and resonates with its audience.
When asked where he found the movie’s screenplay, Levine stated that Seth presented him with the script, but James Weaver, his producing partner, truly championed it. Dan Sterling had penned this script long before he wrote ‘The Interview,’ showcasing his knack for blending politics and humor. The initial read happened years back, even before Charlize became involved. At that time, they were engrossed in Warm Bodies, unable to commit. The project took a different path afterward. When Charlize Theron joined, the script circled back, presenting an opportunity too good to let go.
Seth Rogen, the actor who plays the role of Fred Flarsky, insisted Levine cast Charlize Theron for the role of Charlotte Field. When inquired about the same in an interview, Seth Rogen stated that there was only one actress who perfectly fit the role of Charlotte. Charlize Theron was the only actress Seth Rogen envisioned making the movie with. He further continued that it took almost seven years to attain the level of success that enabled him to have Charlize Theron in the film.
Despite being completely fictitious, the movie explores some concerns that seem grounded in reality. The film adeptly portrays the gender-related challenges that women encounter in the political sphere. Through Charlotte’s perspective, a female politician, it sheds light on the harsh scrutiny she faces regarding her appearance, behavior, and relationships. These struggles mirror the unfortunate double standards and biases prevalent in our society, revealing the uphill battle women often navigate when in comparable positions of influence and power.
When questioned about his strategy to tackle the film’s political theme, Jonathan stated that his primary objective was to create an entertaining film that humorously dissected politics and the contemporary world while highlighting its absurdities. He also aimed to adopt a Capra-like approach, focusing on shared ideals rather than partisanship.
Jonathan hoped the film would outlast current political events, providing viewers with a timeless experience. Their approach incorporated elements of romance, comedy, and politics. For in-depth political analysis, Jonathan deferred to individuals like Stephen Colbert and John Oliver. The goal was to find common ground and depict the everyday absurdities of American life without excessive anger or outrage.
In addition, Charlotte vividly embodies the ethical dilemma that politicians often confront in the real world. The pressure to compromise personal values and beliefs for the sake of political advancement is a common struggle. This mirrors the difficult balance many politicians strive to strike between staying true to their convictions and fulfilling the demands of their roles while meeting public expectations. The film sheds light on this internal conflict, providing a glimpse into the complex decisions and compromises made within the political landscape.
In summary, ‘Long Shot’ may be a work of fiction, but it effectively unveils the realities of a male-dominated political sphere and the substantial influence of media, all while delivering its message through humor. The film emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s principles, regardless of position or circumstance. It’s a reminder that being true to oneself is the only way to overcome the struggles of life.
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