Joey Magidson
Tonight, I see Taylor Swift in concert. I’ve been looking forward to this for literally months, so it’s sure to be an amazing show. In my excitement, I was also thinking about what might be next from her. Of course, she has another Taylor’s Version album coming out, but there’s also the little matter of the film she’s making. Yes, presumably after her tour ends, she’s going to be directing an original screenplay she’s penned. Folks, I’m very excited for this one, since she’s proven to be a great writer, as well as have a true director’s eye.
Swift is no stranger to directing, of course. So far, in front of the camera she’s proven very compelling in the documentary format, where she’s clearly had a hand in things. Both Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions (which she directed, as mentioned in my review here) as well as Miss Americana have been intimate experiences meant to highlight who she is, as much as what she does. These are tools that will serve her well as she makes this feature.
Of course, her most notable filmmaking so far has been with All Too Well: The Short Film, which arguably got her close to an Academy Award nomination. I’m not saying that this feature she’s got brewing is going to get her an Oscar nomination, but it’s something to look out for. She’s clearly got drive and talent, so it wouldn’t be a shock if this is more than just your average feature directorial debut. In a way, you can look at her as a music video director graduating to features. Now, this doesn’t make her the next David Fincher, but it does give you an idea that she’s starting from a really strong initial point.
So, all of this is just to say that I’m excited about Taylor Swift directing. Maybe the project will fall apart or not turn out well? That’s certainly possible. However, until proven otherwise, color me intrigued. This should be one to look out for, once it gets underway…
Stay tuned for more on Taylor Swift behind the camera!
Also, as someone who became a symbol for artists’ rights in the music industry with that dispute over the ownership of her master recordings in 2019, someone like Taylor Swift breaking into filmmaking could signal a much-needed ally during a time when Hollywood studios are seemingly doing everything they can to cut artists out of the filmmaking process in favor of A.I.-constructed “content” generation.
For sure.
Swift didn’t make the Shortlist for her category. ATW TSF was excellent – well paced and poignant, Her campaigning tactics were wrong.
Yes, I’m aware. We covered it at the time, shortlist wise.