About The Player

The Player is a satirical film noir, released in 1992. Directed by Robert Altman and based off of the novel of the same name by Michael Tolkin, who also wrote the screenplay, this film provides an incisive critique of Hollywood film industry. The story follows Griffin Mill, a studio executive who starts to receive death threats from an unknown writer. As the threats increase, Mill goes from victim to potential murderer, further complicating the situation. The film effectively blends elements of drama and dark humour to paint a revealing picture of the harsh realities behind Hollywood's glitz and glamour.

Making/Production

Shot in just over a month, Robert Altman's film was lauded for its creativity and biting wit. Despite being a satire, the film was shot in a serious tone but with an underlying layer of dark humour that broadened its appeal. The film is also famous for its opening 8-minute single take scene.

Actors

• Tim Robbins: Plays the role of Griffin Mill, an insecure studio executive. Robbins portrays a man struggling after becoming the object of death threats, infusing his performance with an undercurrent of fear and desperation.
• Greta Scacchi: As June Gudmundsdottir, Scacchi plays an ice-cold artist, who unexpectedly becomes Mill's love interest.
• Fred Ward: In the role of Walter Stuckel, he executes the part of an affectionate but strict security chief with precision and balance.

Trivia/Interesting Facts

• The film includes numerous cameo appearances from many famous Hollywood figures, including Bruce Willis and Julia Roberts.
• The Player boasts an impressive opening shot that is nearly eight minutes long without any edits.
• The lead character, Griffin Mill, is loosely based on Hollywood executive, David Geffen.

Awards

The film won major critical acclaims with two Academy Award nominations, and won multiple awards including the Best Director for Altman at Cannes Film Festival.

Quotes

• "I was just thinking what an interesting concept it is to eliminate the writer from the artistic process. If we could just get rid of these actors and directors, maybe we've got something here." - Griffin Mill
• "This is a tough story. A tragedy. Not exactly a box-office boffo." - Larry Levy

Music, Soundtrack

• 'The Player (Main Title)' - Thomas Newman
• 'I'm Old Fashioned (reprise)' - Fred Astaire