Aaron Sorkin returns to the big screen after last year’s The Trial of Chicago 7 with the release of Being the Ricardos, recounting the politically turbulent relationship between Hollywood power couple Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball during the 1950’s. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences tend to favor films about old Hollywood, hence David Fincher’s Mank garnered the most Oscar nominations in 2020. Amazon Studios’ new movie could follow the same path.
Behind Sorkin’s writing and direction, Being the Ricardos offers the true essence and mannerisms of Ball, portrayed by the award-winning actress Nicole Kidman.
“Kidman will break your heart and demand the viewers’ sympathy,” Variety reports. Over the last couple of decades, Kidman has portrayed a remarkable number of strong roles in TV and film, including her Oscar-winning role as Virginia Wolf in The Hours, so she can set her sights for a best actress nomination next year.
Bardem’s character lies between lead and supporting role, although reportedly his performance does not amount to his co-stars’ leading role. J.K. Simmons (Whiplash) was casted as William Frawley, which seemed quite perfect. His charisma onscreen could expect him to be in the running for his second Oscar nomination and perhaps second win.
Sorkin’s distinguishable dialogue presents humor and wit throughout Being the Ricardos, and could be the funniest script he’s written since The Social Network, the film that won him the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
The film is produced by Steve Tisch, Todd Black, and Jason Blumenthal.
Being the Ricardos will be released in theaters on Dec. 10 prior to its streaming via Prime Video on Dec. 21.
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