Alfonso Cuarón’s much-anticipated limited series “Disclaimer” made a powerful debut at the Venice Film Festival, receiving a standing ovation that lasted over six minutes. The first four episodes of the Apple TV+ psychological thriller premiered at the festival’s Sala Grande, marking Cuarón’s return to directing since his Oscar-winning film “Roma.” The series is based on Renée Knight’s bestselling novel and features a star-studded cast including Cate Blanchett and Kevin Kline.
“Disclaimer,” set to unfold across seven chapters, immerses viewers in the gripping life of journalist Catherine Ravenscroft, played by Blanchett. Catherine is renowned for her investigative skills and ability to expose the secrets of others through her journalism. However, her life takes a darkly astonishing turn when she receives an anonymous novel that exposes her own hidden past. Throughout the series, this revelation poses a significant threat to both her personal and professional life, unravelling layers of secrets she had long kept buried.
Kevin Kline portrays Stephen Brigstocke, a retired professor with a deep-seated vendetta against Catherine. Their tumultuous relationship becomes the crux of the thriller, elevating the tension and drama significantly.
The Venice Film Festival premiere of “Disclaimer” was a momentous occasion adorned with red carpet glamour. Cate Blanchett captivated everyone with her presence, accompanied by the rest of the highly anticipated cast and, of course, director Alfonso Cuarón himself. The screening at Sala Grande was met with a wave of applause and admiration, lasting over six minutes, which speaks volumes about the audience’s immediate and profound reception of the series.
The festival screening is just the beginning for “Disclaimer,” with the remaining episodes scheduled for a Venice screening on Friday. The anticipation continues to build as viewers eagerly await to see how the intricate, suspenseful storyline will unfold across the seven chapters. The complete series is set to premiere on Apple TV+ on October 11, with new episodes releasing every Friday until November 15, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in Cuarón’s masterful storytelling over several weeks.
Cuarón, who wrote and directed the series, revealed an interesting backstory regarding the casting of Cate Blanchett.
. From the very inception of the project, Cuarón had envisioned Blanchett for the role of Catherine Ravenscroft. He admitted to having reservations, fearing that Blanchett might decline the offer. However, in a fortuitous twist, it was Blanchett who suggested Kline for the role of Stephen Brigstocke. This casting decision came about after a serendipitous conversation about Kline’s performance in “A Fish Called Wanda” during a dinner party in New York. This anecdote further underscores the synchrony and chemistry among the cast members, which is felt throughout the series.
The ensemble cast of “Disclaimer” is robust, featuring notable names such as Lesley Manville, Louis Partridge, and Hoyeon. Each actor brings depth and nuance to their roles, contributing to the rich tapestry of characters and complex narratives woven by Cuarón. Additionally, Indira Varma serves as the narrator, her voice adding another layer of intrigue to the unfolding drama.
The production of “Disclaimer” is a collaborative effort between several prestigious houses. The series is co-produced by Apple Studios, Esperanto Filmoj, and Anonymous Content. This collaboration brings together a team of eminent executive producers, including Cate Blanchett herself, ensuring that the series is crafted with the highest standards of cinematic excellence.
With its compelling narrative, outstanding performances, and exceptional direction, “Disclaimer” is poised to be a significant addition to the landscape of psychological thrillers. The series promises to take viewers on an intense journey, exploring themes of secrecy, revenge, and the intricate complexities of personal and professional life.
As the industry buzzes with excitement following its Venice debut, “Disclaimer” is already being hailed as a must-watch for fans of intense, thought-provoking drama. As the October 11 premiere date approaches, expect anticipation to grow as audiences prepare to dive deep into the dark, enigmatic world crafted by Alfonso Cuarón, with Cate Blanchett leading them through every twist and turn.
#BiennaleCinema2024 #CateBlanchett took everybody’s breath away on the Red Carpet of #Venezia81, together with director #AlfonsoCuarón and the rest of the cast of #Disclaimer.
