Although it didn’t make huge waves, Jeanne du Barry marked Johnny Depp’s return to film after his highly publicized legal battle with Amber Heard. Time will tell if the actor can maintain his momentum following this movie, directed and starring Maïwenn.
One of the most successful comebacks in recent Hollywood history is that of Demi Moore, which has already earned her a Oscar nomination. The Substance also reflects the actress’s own experience, as it tells the story of a woman losing relevance in the entertainment world due to her age.
However, The Substance is not the first story of its kind, with a meta-narrative commenting on its own context and actors. Sunset Boulevard tells the story of Norma Desmond, a silent film star trying to regain her fame, portrayed by Gloria Swanson. An old Swanson film, directed by Erich von Stroheim, is referenced in this title, with Stroheim himself playing a role here.
While Michael Keaton never stopped working, it’s true that his career never reached the same heights as when he starred in Tim Burton’s Batman films. Then came Birdman, directed by Mexican filmmaker Alejandro González Iñárritu, a favorite of the Oscars and other international awards. The film tells the story of an actor who rose to fame playing a superhero and struggles to regain credibility with a Broadway play. Art continues to imitate life...
In of box office and global fame, Iron Man might be the ultimate comeback story for an actor on the ropes. After years battling addiction, Robert Downey Jr. had lost all credibility. Jon Favreau trusted him for the project that launched the movie franchises in Hollywood history, turning Downey into one of its biggest (and highest-paid) stars.