Julia Roberts Unleashes Passion on Campus Thriller "After the Hunt

Julia Roberts Says 'After the Hunt' Is "About Love and Forgiveness" NEW YORK - Julia Roberts, one of Hollywood's most beloved stars, weighed in on her latest film, "After the Hunt," at its premiere during the New York Film Festival's opening night screening. The Luca Guadagnino-directed campus thriller has sparked conversations about love, forgiveness, and the complexities of human relationships. According to Roberts, who plays Alma, a mentor and close friend to Andrew Garfield's character Hank, the film is "about love and forgiveness" in the face of adversity. "It's a story that makes you think, it's a story that makes you feel," she said during an interview after the screening. The movie follows Maggie (Ayo Edebiri), a promising PhD candidate who accuses Hank of sexual misconduct, sending shockwaves through their academic community. As Alma navigates her own relationships with Hank and Maggie, the film raises questions about power dynamics, consent, and the consequences of actions. Industry insiders have praised Guadagnino's direction, calling it "a masterclass in subtlety" that allows the audience to fill in the gaps. The film's exploration of complex themes has also been noted for its timeliness, given the current cultural conversation around MeToo and accountability. While some viewers may find themselves questioning the narrative's ambiguities, the cast has expressed a willingness to engage with the uncertainty. "I think that's what makes it so interesting," said Edebiri in an interview. "It's not a straightforward story, but it's one that will stay with you long after the credits roll." The New York Film Festival continues through October 15, with "After the Hunt" set to screen again on October 13. The film is expected to generate further discussion and debate among audiences and critics alike. As for Roberts' involvement in the project, she has stated that she was drawn to the script's nuanced portrayal of relationships and its exploration of difficult themes. "It's a story that needs to be told," she said simply. With its thought-provoking narrative and standout performances, "After the Hunt" is poised to become a major player in this year's festival circuit. As the conversation around the film continues to unfold, one thing is clear: it's a movie that will leave audiences talking long after the credits roll. *Reporting by Hollywoodreporter.*