George Clooney and Laura Dern Reflect on Filming ‘Awful’ Horror Flick Four Decades Ago
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Renowned Hollywood stars, George Clooney and Laura Dern, took a trip down memory lane as they reminisced about their experience working on the ‘dreadful’ horror movie, Grizzly II, 40 years ago. Meeting at the New York Film Festival to promote their latest film Jay Kelly, the actors engaged in a post-screening Q&A session where they shared anecdotes from their past collaboration.

The discussion shed light on the challenging circumstances surrounding the making of Grizzly II: Revenge, a low-budget horror production that faced financial constraints leading to filming delays. Clooney, 64, affectionately recalled their time in Budapest, where the production encountered hurdles due to budget limitations.
Dern, 58, who began her acting career at a young age, acknowledged Clooney’s support and mentorship during their time on the set of Grizzly II. The duo, along with their fellow cast members, including Billy Crudup and Riley Keough, fondly recollected their shared journey as actors in the industry.
Grizzly II, a sequel to the 1976 horror classic Grizzly, features a star-studded ensemble cast, which includes Charlie Sheen, Louise Fletcher, and Jonathan Rhys-Davis. Despite its initial setbacks, the film has since found its way to the audience through streaming platforms like Netflix, offering viewers a glimpse into the actors’ early work.
In contrast to the horror flick, Jay Kelly presents a more introspective narrative, with Clooney portraying the titular character, a disillusioned movie star navigating personal challenges. Dern, in the role of Liz, Kelly’s publicist, brings depth to the storyline, exploring themes of fame and self-discovery.
Clooney, known for his versatility as an actor, delved into the character’s complexities, drawing parallels between Kelly’s journey and his own experiences in the limelight. The film offers a poignant reflection on the price of fame and the pursuit of authenticity in a world driven by celebrity culture.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Noah Baumbach, Jay Kelly promises to deliver a thought-provoking narrative, supported by a talented ensemble that includes Patrick Wilson, Eve Hewson, and Greta Gerwig. The film’s release in cinemas and on streaming platforms is set to captivate audiences with its compelling storytelling.
As Clooney and Dern navigate the realms of past and present projects, their collaboration in Jay Kelly marks a significant milestone in their careers, reaffirming their enduring bond as artists. The actors’ journey from Grizzly II to Jay Kelly encapsulates the evolution of their craft, showcasing their growth and resilience in an ever-changing industry.
In a world where success is often measured by box office figures and critical acclaim, Clooney and Dern’s candid reflections offer a glimpse into the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring impact of shared experiences onscreen. Their reunion at the New York Film Festival stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and camaraderie that defines the world of cinema.
