Ethan Hawke Praises Irish Production of 'Blue Moon' Following Festival Premiere

Actor Ethan Hawke expressed significant satisfaction with his recent filming in Ireland for the biographical comedy-drama 'Blue Moon,' indicating a strong desire to undertake future projects within the country. The production, which reunited Hawke with director Richard Linklater, known for the 'Before' trilogy and 'Boyhood,' completed principal photography across Dublin and County Wicklow in the summer of 2024, concluding in September. Hawke, 55, noted the caliber of the Irish actors and crew, stating he departed Ireland hoping for a swift return to film there again.

The film, written by Robert Kaplow, centers on the final days of legendary Broadway lyricist Lorenz Hart, portrayed by Hawke. The narrative unfolds on the opening night of 'Oklahoma!' on March 31, 1943, as Hart reflects on his career and personal life, marking the artistic conclusion of his partnership with Richard Rodgers. This partnership had previously yielded 28 stage musicals and enduring standards such as 'Blue Moon' and 'My Funny Valentine.' Hawke embodies Hart as an artist confronting his diminishing relevance as the era of traditional show tunes transitions to a new artistic landscape.

Director Richard Linklater, 65, echoed Hawke's positive assessment, specifically commending the skilled Irish collaborators and production crew. A notable aspect of the production involved the construction of a meticulous recreation of the iconic New York venue, Sardi's restaurant, within Dublin, which served as the primary setting for the film’s events. Linklater, who previously earned the Silver Bear for Best Director at the 2014 Berlinale for 'Boyhood,' described the experience of filming in Ireland as fulfilling due to the available talent pool.

'Blue Moon' also features Andrew Scott as Richard Rodgers, who is depicted moving forward professionally with Oscar Hammerstein II, the co-writer of 'Oklahoma!.' Scott's portrayal earned him the Silver Bear for Best Supporting Performance at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival on February 18, 2025, an award category restructured in 2021. The film, which includes Margaret Qualley as Elizabeth Weiland and Bobby Cannavale as the bartender Eddie, premiered at the Berlinale and subsequently secured a U.S. theatrical release through Sony Pictures Classics on October 17, 2025. Critical reception has been generally favorable, with an 89% positive consensus reported on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 80 out of 100, highlighting praise for Hawke's nuanced portrayal of the complex lyricist.