Global superstar Jennifer Lopez has offered an unusually frank assessment of the critically acclaimed film 'Nomadland', branding it the 'worst' movie she has ever seen. Speaking on the podcast 'Films to Be Buried With', hosted by her 'Office Romance' co-star Brett Goldstein, Lopez admitted her choice would be 'unpopular' given the film's widespread accolades, including three Academy Awards.
'Nomadland', released in 2020 and directed by Chloé Zhao, was a significant success at the Oscars, securing Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress for its lead, Frances McDormand. The film follows a widow who embarks on a nomadic journey across America in her van after losing everything in the Great Recession. Despite acknowledging its beauty and the enjoyment many found in it, Lopez described it as her 'worst type of film', personally, finding it 'depressing' and lacking escapism.
Lopez elaborated on her cinematic preferences, stating that she typically gravitates towards romantic comedies, action movies, and musicals. She explained that 'Nomadland's' slow pace and focus on grief did not align with her reasons for watching films. "It's a slow-moving thing about grief, and there's no escapism to it," she commented, adding that while she understands the need for such films, they are "just not for me" – akin to her aversion to horror movies.
Despite her strong personal dislike for the film, Lopez was quick to commend Frances McDormand's performance. "She's amazing – we all know this. There's no surprise there. She deserves all the Oscars," Lopez stated, separating the quality of the acting from her overall enjoyment of the film's narrative and tone. 'Nomadland' garnered significant critical acclaim upon its release, with many UK critics praising its poignant exploration of loss and resilience.
The film's success was also recognised by British industry bodies, with 'Nomadland' winning four BAFTA Awards in 2021, including Best Film, Best Director for Chloé Zhao, Best Actress for Frances McDormand, and Best Cinematography. This widespread recognition underscores the contrast between the film's critical reception and Lopez's personal viewing experience. For UK audiences interested in forming their own opinion, 'Nomadland' is available to stream on Disney+ and Apple TV+.
Zhao's follow-up to 'Nomadland' was 'Hamnet', a fictional drama based on Maggie O'Farrell's novel, which explores the potential inspirations behind Shakespeare's 'Hamlet'. This project also garnered attention, with veteran actor Sir Ian McKellen expressing his own reservations about the film's premise.
Source: Films to Be Buried With podcast