Legendary Duo Linklater and Hawke Dive into the Life of Lorenz Hart

In 2025, acclaimed director Richard Linklater and actor Ethan Hawke have reunited for their ninth collaboration, "Blue Moon," a real-time drama set in 1943 New York that explores the life of famous Broadway lyricist Lorenz Hart.

Hawke gives a standout performance as Hart, who is navigating the end of his creative partnership with his former colleague, Richard Rodgers, portrayed by Andrew Scott. The film takes place over the course of one evening as Rodgers celebrates the opening night of his new musical, "Oklahoma!," which he co-wrote with Oscar Hammerstein II.

The creative breakup between Hart and Rodgers stems from Hart's struggles with alcoholism and depression, which have made him an unreliable collaborator. As Hart sits at the bar of the iconic Sardi's restaurant, he reflects on his career and the void he feels as his friend's success continues without him.

Linklater's film works almost like a play, with the audience feeling immersed in the intimate setting and dialogue-heavy scenes. The director is known for celebrating the ordinary and making the fragile feel important, and "Blue Moon" is no exception. Hawke and co-star Bobby Cannavale discuss the vulnerability of being an artist and the timely questions the film raises about the role of art in society.