Director Scott Derrickson Acknowledges Aubrey Plaza's Comments on 'The Gorge' and Grief

What's Happening?

Scott Derrickson, the director of the Apple TV+ movie 'The Gorge,' has responded to comments made by actress Aubrey Plaza regarding how the film helped her process grief over the loss of her husband, Jeff Baena. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Derrickson expressed that he was deeply moved by Plaza's remarks, highlighting the emotional impact of his work. Plaza, known for her role in 'Parks and Recreation,' shared her experience on Amy Poehler's 'Good Hang' podcast, where she likened her grief to the vast chasm depicted in the film. The movie features two snipers, played by Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy, separated by a gorge, which Plaza used as a metaphor for her emotional state. Baena, a screenwriter and director, passed away earlier this year at the age of 47, and Plaza has been open about her journey through grief.

Why It's Important?

The interaction between Derrickson and Plaza underscores the powerful role that art and cinema can play in personal healing and emotional expression. For audiences, this highlights the potential of films to resonate on a deeply personal level, offering solace and understanding in times of loss. The acknowledgment from Derrickson also emphasizes the filmmaker's role in creating works that can provide meaningful experiences beyond entertainment. This dialogue may encourage other filmmakers to consider the emotional impact of their work and inspire viewers to seek out films that offer more than just visual storytelling.

What's Next?

While there are no specific next steps outlined, the ongoing conversation about the emotional impact of 'The Gorge' may lead to further discussions in the film industry about the therapeutic potential of cinema. It could also prompt more public figures to share their personal experiences with grief and healing, potentially leading to broader societal conversations about mental health and support systems.

Beyond the Headlines

The discussion around 'The Gorge' and Plaza's grief highlights the often-overlooked therapeutic aspects of storytelling in film. It raises questions about how filmmakers can intentionally create narratives that support emotional well-being and how audiences can engage with media as a form of self-care. This could lead to a shift in how films are marketed and discussed, focusing more on their potential to aid in personal growth and healing.