Rupert Everett Reflects on His Friendship with Madonna and The Next Best Thing Movie Flop
In a candid revelation on the How to Fail With Elizabeth Day podcast, Rupert Everett opened up about the complexities of friendship and the weight of expectations in Hollywood. With a star-studded cast including the iconic Madonna and talented Benjamin Bratt, the film “The Next Best Thing,” released in 2000, was poised for success but fell short of the mark, leaving emotional ripples in its wake, particularly for Everett and Madonna.
The Ill-Fated Journey of The Next Best Thing
Set against the backdrop of urban romance, “The Next Best Thing” delves into the unexpected territory of a same-sex friendship that blooms into parenthood. Everett’s character, Robert, enters into a one-night stand with his close friend Abbie, played by Madonna. Their agreement to raise the child together creates a unique yet complex familial dynamic. However, the trio’s story complicates when Abbie begins dating Ben, portrayed by Bratt, leading to a whirlwind of emotions and disputes.
Despite its intriguing premise, the film’s execution faltered. Everett admitted that while the box office numbers weren’t disastrous thanks to video sales—largely attributed to Madonna’s vast fanbase—the film itself struggled to resonate with audiences. “It didn’t work,” he reflected, acknowledging that it was a significant moment in cinematic history despite its flaws. The narrative of two friends navigating parenthood amid societal constraints was ambitious, but perhaps the timing and production fell short of the community’s expectations.
Behind the Scenes: A Challenging Experience
Everett shared the grueling experience of filming, asserting that “everything went wrong” on set. This tumultuous period weighed heavily on him, leading to a profound shift in his Hollywood career trajectory. He noted that this project marked a pivotal moment, stating, “it completely finished things for me in Hollywood.” Such a sentiment underscores the precarious nature of success in the film industry, where a single misfire can have lasting consequences on relationships and careers.
In the midst of setbacks, Everett took a moment to commend Madonna’s performance. Describing her as “touching” in the role, he empathized with her struggles in an industry that often places unrealistic expectations on performers. “I think it’s very difficult for her to be in films because everyone has such a preconception,” he remarked, highlighting the unique challenges faced by individuals who are already cultural icons before they even step on the screen.
The Aftermath of Failure
As the dust settled from the film’s release, the strain on Everett’s friendship with Madonna became palpable. The weight of expectations—both from audiences and within their circle—cast a shadow on their once-solid relationship. “Friendships and failure in Hollywood are very difficult things to keep going,” he professed, offering a glimpse into the emotional turmoil that often accompanies professional disappointment in the glitzy but unforgiving realm of Hollywood.
Conclusion: Reflections on Friendship and Failure
Rupert Everett’s reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the fragility of Hollywood friendships amid the pressures of fame and success. While “The Next Best Thing” may have stumbled out of the gates, its exploration of complex interpersonal relationships remains significant. As Everett and Madonna navigate the aftermath of their artistic endeavor, their story highlights the profound impact that both triumphs and failures can have on personal connections.
FAQs
What is “The Next Best Thing” about?
The movie tells the story of a one-night stand between two friends, Abbie and Robert, who decide to raise a child together. The situation becomes complicated when Abbie starts dating another man, leading to conflict and confusion.
Who directed “The Next Best Thing”?
The film was directed by John Schlesinger, a renowned filmmaker known for his contributions to cinema.
Why did the film fail?
According to Rupert Everett, while the film did not perform poorly at the box office, it struggled to resonate with audiences due to its execution, which did not live up to its ambitious premise.
How did the film affect Rupert Everett’s career?
Everett revealed that the difficulties faced during the filming and the subsequent flop significantly impacted his career trajectory in Hollywood, leading to lost opportunities.
What did Rupert Everett say about Madonna’s performance?
Even though the film was not well-received, Everett praised Madonna for her touching performance, acknowledging the challenges she faced in being perceived as an actress in the industry.
How did the film strain Everett’s friendship with Madonna?
With the high expectations surrounding the film and its eventual failure, Everett noted that it put considerable strain on his friendship with Madonna, showcasing the delicate balance between personal and professional relationships in Hollywood.
Where can I watch “The Next Best Thing”?
For those interested in revisiting or experiencing “The Next Best Thing,” it is available for streaming on platforms like Netflix and Prime Video.
What themes does the movie explore?
The film explores themes of friendship, parenthood, and the societal expectations surrounding unconventional family structures.
What was the audience’s reaction to the film?
Overall, audience reactions were mixed, with many highlighting strong performances but criticizing the film’s narrative execution.
Is there a deeper message in Everett’s reflection?
Everett’s reflections suggest a broader commentary on the pressures of fame and the impact of creative failures on personal relationships, highlighting the human side of Hollywood’s glitz and glamour.
Tags
Rupert Everett, Madonna, The Next Best Thing, Hollywood, Film Review, John Schlesinger, Friendship, Movie Flop, Celebrity Relationships