Misty Green is Chris Rock’s first directorial feature in a dozen years since his well-received Top Five. The A24 release has premiered in Toronto prior to its October 9th stateside release. Rosalind Eleazar, best known for her small screen work on Apple TV’s Slow Horses, plays the title role with a supporting cast including Adam Driver, Daniel Kaluuya, Anna Kendrick, Topher Grace, and Mr. Rock himself.
Initial reaction from TIFF is a mixed bag. The initial Metacritic score is 73. What’s not mixed is the praise for Eleazar in her portrayal of a fading Hollywood star. Critics are also being kind to Kaluuya, but the Supporting Actor winner for 2020’s Judas and the Black Messiah‘s role is likely too small for recognition.
Green‘s only Oscar play is for Eleazar. However, A24 could face a challenge in their campaign. Julianne Moore (The Debut) appears to be the frontrunner and Olivia Wilde (The Invite) has a strong shot at inclusion. Will A24 really get three performers in? I’m not so sure and that’s probably why Eleazar won’t be in my top five in my next update. My Oscar Prediction posts will continue…