Since her breakthrough role in the 1976 version of King Kong, Jessica Lange has always embraced hard work and diverse roles. With two Academy Awards under her belt for Tootsie in 1982 and Blue Sky in 1994, Lange’s filmography includes a wide range of films such as The Postman Always Rings Twice, Cape Fear, Rob Roy, Big Fish, and Broken Flowers. Her television work, including portraying Joan Crawford in Feud and winning an Emmy for Grey Gardens, has also garnered critical acclaim. Additionally, Lange has showcased her talent on stage in both London and Broadway, starring in classic plays like A Streetcar Named Desire, The Glass Menagerie, and Mother Play.
Lange’s ability to seamlessly transition between stage and screen, as well as between classic and contemporary works, ensures a dedicated audience for every project she undertakes. Her latest endeavor involves bringing Eugene O’Neill’s acclaimed play, Long Day’s Journey into Night, to the big screen. Despite the challenges of adapting this Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Lange views it as a significant project that delivers emotional depth and universal themes that resonate in today’s world.
In the film, Lange plays Mary Tyrone, a complex character struggling with addiction, loneliness, and fears for her family. Her deep connection to the role is evident, having previously portrayed Mary Tyrone on stage. The film adaptation, directed by Jonathan Kent, brings Lange and co-star Ed Harris together once again, following their collaboration on the Broadway production in 2016.
As Lange and Harris unveiled the film at premieres in Dublin and Glasgow, memories of past projects resurfaced, including their shared experience on the set of Rob Roy in 1995. While Roth reminisces about battling Highland midges, Lange fondly recalls the beauty of the Scottish Highlands and the joy of having her family on set. Looking ahead, Lange’s upcoming projects will continue to spotlight women’s stories, such as starring in the adaptation of Joan Didion’s The Year of Magical Thinking and delving into the life of Marlene Dietrich. With a desire to challenge Hollywood’s ageist perceptions, Lange remains dedicated to portraying complex and compelling female characters on screen.
Legendary actress Jessica Lange, at the age of 75, continues to challenge Hollywood’s ageist norms by delving into a fascinating new project that sheds light on the enigmatic life of Marlene Dietrich. This upcoming venture promises to be a captivating exploration of Dietrich’s later years, particularly during a transformative period marked by an unexpected partnership with renowned composer Burt Bacharach.
Lange, known for her exceptional performances on screen, is set to portray the iconic Dietrich during a pivotal moment in her career when she embarked on a peculiar Las Vegas act. The narrative delves into the intriguing encounter between Dietrich and the young composer, which ultimately led to a remarkable rejuvenation of her artistic endeavors.
Reflecting on the significance of this upcoming project, Lange emphasizes the allure of this lesser-known chapter in Dietrich’s life. “It’s an interesting period,” she muses, hinting at the complex layers of Dietrich’s personal and professional evolution. Notably, the storyline also delves into Dietrich’s poignant return to Germany post-war, offering a poignant glimpse into her reclusive years in Paris.
Excited about the production timeline, Lange expresses her optimism for the project to be in full swing before the year draws to a close. This ambitious endeavor not only celebrates the enduring legacy of Dietrich but also serves as a testament to the resilience and talent of older women in the entertainment industry.
In a landscape where aging actresses are often sidelined, Lange’s unwavering commitment to portraying multifaceted female characters resonates as a powerful statement of empowerment and artistic integrity. Her dedication to bringing Dietrich’s complex narrative to life exemplifies a deep respect for the nuances and challenges faced by women in the spotlight.
As the project unfolds, audiences can anticipate a rich tapestry of emotions, music, and storytelling that transcends mere entertainment, offering a profound exploration of human experience and resilience. Through Lange’s nuanced portrayal and the compelling narrative arc, viewers will be transported into the captivating world of Marlene Dietrich, where passion, talent, and reinvention converge in a mesmerizing display of creativity.
With Lange at the helm, this upcoming production promises to be a poignant tribute to Dietrich’s enduring legacy while shining a spotlight on the timeless artistry and indomitable spirit of women who defy societal expectations and carve their own path in the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood.
