Jennifer Lopez reflects on iconic films and their impact in an engaging conversation on Brett Goldstein’s podcast, “Films to Be Buried With.” The episode, which aired on 10 June, saw Lopez spotlight her choice for a film that she found both captivating and problematic – the 1993 thriller “True Romance,” directed by Tony Scott and penned by Quentin Tarantino.
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In the episode, Lopez joined the actor and comedian Goldstein, known for his role in Apple TV’s acclaimed series “Ted Lasso,” to delve into the movies that have influenced her over the years. When prompted to discuss a film that elicited mixed feelings of attraction, the 56-year-old actress did not hesitate to choose “True Romance.” Her lively discussion highlighted the film’s intriguing characters and storyline.
Lopez enthusiastically recounted the film’s ensemble cast, which includes notable names such as Christian Slater, Patricia Arquette, Val Kilmer, and Gary Oldman. The actress expressed a curious admiration for the characters and the actors portraying them, admitting with a laugh, “I would have had sex with any one of them!” Her frank remarks provided a glimpse into the allure of these characters, each steeped in emotional complexity and engaging narrative.
She elaborated on the film’s plot, describing Slater’s character, who works in a record store and experiences vivid hallucinations of Elvis Presley, portrayed by Val Kilmer. Lopez expressed particular admiration for Arquette’s role as a hooker with a heart of gold, describing her performance as ‘the sweetest’. This blend of gritty realism and romantic allure is a hallmark of Tarantino’s writing, which has both attracted and perplexed audiences over the years.
The film also features a number of iconic performances, with Lopez pointing out the contributions of actors such as Dennis Hopper, Samuel L. Jackson, Christopher Walken, and James Gandolfini, who plays a hitman in a particularly memorable scene. Lopez’s admiration extended to Brad Pitt’s portrayal of a stoner, and she remarked on the collective talent that graces the film, saying, “All of them were so incredibly f—ing good in this movie.”
Interestingly, Lopez also acknowledged the complexity of attraction in the film, citing Oldman’s character, Drexl Spivey, an intimidating pimp. “The gold teeth,” she quipped, along with a nod to his dreadlocked hair, underscored how the characters, despite their unsettling traits, maintained a captivating charm. She commented on Arquette’s resilience as her character endures hardships, yet still, “she’s still sexy,” which speaks to the film’s complicated portrayal of love and desire even amidst violence.
Beyond “True Romance,” Lopez shared other films that have significantly influenced her, including classics such as “West Side Story” (1961), “Flashdance” (1983), and “9½ Weeks” (1986), alongside more contemporary titles like “The Notebook” and “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story,” the latter released in 2004. Each of these films showcases different facets of romance and drama, reflective of the actress’s diverse cinematic interests.
Lopez and Goldstein’s on-screen collaboration in the romantic comedy “Office Romance” adds another layer to their intriguing discussion. With Goldstein serving as co-writer along with Joe Kelly, the film presents a contemporary view on love and relationships. Currently available for streaming on Netflix, the film further highlights Lopez’s ongoing relevance in the evolving cinematic landscape.
“Films to Be Buried With” airs weekly on Wednesdays, offering listeners a blend of poignant reflections on cinema and an insight into the personal experiences of its guests. Lopez’s insights into “True Romance” not only reveal her personal connection to the film but also invite listeners to consider the complexities of attraction and narrative in cinema.
In summarising her vivid experiences related to the film, Lopez encapsulates a common refrain among cinema lovers—the magnetic pull of well-crafted characters, regardless of their moral implications. Indeed, her remarks serve as a reminder of the power of film to evoke strong emotional responses while also challenging societal norms and expectations.