Julia Roberts: We're losing the art of conversation

Julia Roberts, the well-known American actress, recently attended the Venice Film Festival to premiere her latest film, 'After The Hunt'. During a press conference, Roberts expressed her concern that people are losing the art of conversation. She hopes her new movie will encourage viewers to talk more openly about difficult topics. 'After The Hunt' tells the story of a student at Yale University who accuses a college professor of sexual assault. The film does not clearly show which side is telling the truth, making the story complex and open to interpretation. Roberts said the movie is meant to challenge people and spark conversations, whether they feel excited or upset by what they see. In the film, Roberts plays Alma, a college professor who finds herself caught between her star student Maggie, played by Ayo Edebiri, and her friend and fellow teacher Hank, played by Andrew Garfield. Hank is the professor accused by Maggie, and Alma must decide who to believe as new information comes to light. Roberts explained that the movie is not trying to make a clear statement about who is right or wrong. Instead, it presents the lives of the characters and encourages viewers to discuss their own opinions after watching. She believes that getting people to talk to each other is the most important thing the film can achieve, especially since she feels society is losing the ability to have meaningful conversations. The film is directed by Luca Guadagnino, an Italian filmmaker known for movies like 'Call Me by Your Name' and 'Challengers'. The script was written by Nora Garrett, who is making her debut as a screenwriter. The cast also includes Michael Stuhlbarg and Chloë Sevigny. Ayo Edebiri, who plays Maggie, said she enjoys movies that challenge her and make her think. She believes that watching a film like 'After The Hunt' can change your perspective from the beginning to the end. Throughout the movie, Alma's opinions shift as she learns more about both Maggie and Hank. Roberts rejected the idea that her character's actions revive old arguments about women not supporting each other. She said the film brings up old debates in a new way that encourages conversation. As the story unfolds, Alma realizes that her own past experiences may have influenced how she sees the situation. Critics have praised Roberts's performance, calling it her best in years and suggesting she could win an Oscar for her role. However, opinions about the film itself are divided. Some critics feel the movie does not offer valuable discussion about complex issues and that its attempt to be provocative is not as fresh as it claims. Others believe the film's moral ambiguity is not strong enough, making the story feel more straightforward than intended. Andrew Garfield, who plays Hank, said he was drawn to the project because the characters are flawed and their motivations are sometimes hidden, even from themselves. He finds it interesting how people can convince themselves they are the hero of their own story, especially in situations where survival feels important. Director Luca Guadagnino agreed, saying he likes to explore what people carry inside themselves without realizing it. He believes that even lies can reveal truths about a person. Roberts, who has starred in movies like 'Pretty Woman' and 'Notting Hill', said she enjoys playing troubled characters because it makes her work more interesting. She described the film as full of conflict and challenges, which she finds exciting. The Venice Film Festival also featured other celebrities, such as Emma Stone and George Clooney. Roberts attended the Critics Choice Awards in Los Angeles earlier this year. Overall, Julia Roberts hopes 'After The Hunt' will inspire viewers to talk more openly and honestly about difficult subjects, helping to bring back the art of conversation.