Spike Jonze: From Cult Films to Apple TV+ – What’s the Director Up To Now?
(archyde.com) – Fans of visionary filmmaker Spike Jonze have been wondering: what *has* the director of the mind-bending ‘Being John Malkovich’ and the Oscar-winning ‘Her’ been up to? After captivating audiences with his unique storytelling, Jonze seemingly stepped back from the spotlight. This is a breaking news update on the director’s recent activities, and a look at why filmmakers sometimes disappear – and what they do when they do.
The Quiet Period: A Common Trend in Filmmaking
It’s not uncommon for celebrated directors to vanish from the cinematic landscape for extended periods. Terrence Malick famously retreated for 20 years after early masterpieces, while Peter Jackson hasn’t released a feature film since completing ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy. Frank Darabont’s last directorial effort was back in 2015, and horror legend John Carpenter hasn’t directed a film since 2006. This phenomenon isn’t about a lack of talent; it’s often about creative recharge, exploring other avenues, or simply the demanding nature of filmmaking.
‘Her’ and Beyond: A Critical Darling
Jonze’s 2013 film, ‘Her,’ starring Joaquin Phoenix and featuring the voice of Scarlett Johansson, wasn’t just a critical success – it’s still being celebrated today. Recently, the New York Times’s poll of over 500 filmmakers placed ‘Her’ at number 24 on its list of the best films of the 21st century. Film Start editor Björn Becher, in a 4-star review, noted that while different from his earlier work like ‘Being John Malkovich,’ ‘Her’ reaffirmed Jonze as one of the most original voices in American cinema. The film’s exploration of connection and artificial intelligence continues to resonate with audiences.
Beyond the Big Screen: A Burst of Creativity
While feature films have been scarce, Spike Jonze hasn’t been idle. He’s channeled his creativity into a diverse range of projects. He’s directed striking commercials for artists like FKA Twigs and Margaret Qualley, showcasing his signature visual style. Perhaps most notably, he directed the Apple TV+ documentary ‘Beastie Boys Story’ (2020), a critically acclaimed and innovative look at the iconic hip-hop group. He also collaborated with musician Frank Ocean in 2017, designing the stage and visuals for Ocean’s tour following the release of “Blonde.” A brief cameo in Damien Chazelle’s ‘Babylon’ (2022) offered a glimpse of Jonze back on set, albeit in a different role.
From ‘Jackass’ to Artistic Vision
Jonze’s career trajectory is remarkably diverse. He first gained prominence co-creating the MTV cult hit “Jackass” with Johnny Knoxville and Jeff Tremaine, a far cry from the introspective themes of ‘Her.’ This early work demonstrates a willingness to experiment and push boundaries, qualities that continue to define his artistic output. The success of ‘Jackass 3D’ – featuring a guest appearance from Seann William Scott (Stifler from ‘American Pie’) – proves Jonze’s ability to connect with a broad audience.
At 55, Spike Jonze has directed only four feature films in 26 years. This isn’t a sign of inactivity, but rather a deliberate pace, prioritizing artistic exploration over constant output. The question of when – or if – he’ll return to feature filmmaking remains unanswered, but one thing is certain: when he does, the world will be watching. Staying informed about the latest developments in film and entertainment is crucial for both industry professionals and avid moviegoers. For more breaking news and in-depth analysis, keep checking back with archyde.com.
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