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Actor's 'Ugly Cry' Fuels Dark Descent
14 Mar
Summary
- Debut feature explores an actor's spiral into perfectionism.
- Film addresses industry pressures on appearance and isolation.
- Story blends psychological thriller with dark comedy elements.
Writer-director and actor Emily Robinson's debut feature, "UGLY CRY," premiered on March 12th. The film's logline centers on an actor who spirals into a dangerous pursuit of perfection after an "ugly cry" costs them a dream role.
Robinson was inspired by the difficult aspects of the entertainment industry and the unhealthy self-objectification exacerbated by isolation, particularly during the pandemic. She aimed for a tone that is both grounded and comedic, reflecting Hollywood's inherent silliness while coping with life's challenges through laughter and cringe.
The narrative intricately weaves psychological thriller and haunting elements, with some spectral aspects offering a surprisingly heartwarming quality. Actors Robin Tunney and Ryan Simpkins discussed the pervasive pressures on actors' appearances, noting the rise of Botox and diet culture as contributing factors to a culture of numbness.
The film premiered at SXSW on March 12th, with the festival running through March 18th. Deadline's SXSW Studio captured discussions with the cast and creatives behind buzzy titles.
