As awards season unfolds in Los Angeles, various venues host events ranging from film screenings to intimate discussions. Recently, the Little Gold Men podcast, presented by Vanity Fair and IHG’s Regent Santa Monica Beach, featured acclaimed actor Joel Edgerton for a live taping. This event occurred against a stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, offering guests a delightful Southern California evening.
Edgerton, recognized for his performance in Train Dreams, is at a pivotal moment in his career following his Golden Globe nomination. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and was later acquired by Netflix. During the discussion, Edgerton humorously compared the significance of his nomination to his role in the beloved Australian children’s series Bluey.
The facts
When moderator Rebecca Ford asked which achievement held more weight, Edgerton quipped, “I think I deserve a Golden Globe for my voice work in Bluey!” He acknowledged the thrill of recognition, stating, “Winning a Golden Globe nomination is exciting, and I won’t deny that it feels great to be acknowledged.”
Reflections on cultural narratives
Edgerton shared insights on the themes of Train Dreams and the parallels between Australia and the United States. He noted, “America is often celebrated for its westward expansion. Australia has its own narratives of homesteaders and pioneers. Despite the complexities surrounding colonialism, I admire those who bravely forge a life beyond urban confines. Rural existence is a significant part of the Australian identity.” The full discussion with Edgerton will air on an upcoming episode of Little Gold Men.
Creating immersive experiences
Tom Rowntree, vice president of global luxury brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts, explained the motivation behind hosting the event at the Regent Santa Monica Beach: “This collaboration reflects our commitment to developing luxury experiences that intertwine culture, storytelling, and sophistication. As the first Regent property in the Americas, we aim to create not just places to stay but immersive environments where narratives unfold, and guests can engage with their surroundings.”
After the discussion, attendees moved to the hotel’s terrace, enjoying cocktails and seasonal sliders while sharing their thoughts on the awards race. The ambiance was enhanced by live music, with the soothing sounds of the Pacific Ocean creating an idyllic setting. Later in the evening, guests gathered around fire pits, savoring desserts and hot chocolate as they exchanged opinions about the year’s best films.
Recognition at the Sun Valley Film Festival
In a related development, Train Dreams director Clint Bentley and co-writer Greg Kwedar received the Disruptors in Film Award at the Sun Valley Film Festival. Their innovative spirit and commitment to equitable practices in filmmaking have garnered widespread acclaim. Following their notable work on Sing Sing, which earned them an Oscar nomination, their latest project continues to challenge industry norms.
During a discussion at the festival, Bentley expressed astonishment at receiving congratulations from Steven Spielberg for Train Dreams. He remarked, “We’ve always wanted to create films that resonate with us personally, and any recognition from that point is just icing on the cake.”
Focus on storytelling and authenticity
Both filmmakers emphasized the importance of meaningful narratives over commercial success. Kwedar stated, “Our journey begins with the story itself and its significance to us. It’s essential to find value in the work we do, irrespective of the outcome.” Their adaptation of Denis Johnson’s novella showcases their commitment to authentic storytelling.
As they continue to explore narratives that resonate on a deeper level, Bentley and Kwedar remain passionate about fostering an environment where creativity can flourish, enriching both their experiences and the cinematic landscape.
