What Just Happened

About What Just Happened

"What Just Happened" is a satirical comedy-drama film released in 2008. Directed by Barry Levinson, the movie is based on the book of the same name by Art Linson, which is an insiders account of a producer’s manic and unpredictable world. The plot revolves around a Hollywood producer named Ben as he vainly struggles to maintain the semblance of humanity while dealing with fiery relationships, ego clashes, and laments over the state of the film industry.

Making / Production

Filmed primarily in Southern California, the movie captures the glam and underbelly of Hollywood. Barry Levinson directs the screenplay written by Art Linson himself, giving an authentic portrayal of the central character’s challenges. The film was shot over a span of several months and released under Magnolia Pictures distribution.

Actors

• Robert De Niro plays the role of Ben, a beleaguered Hollywood producer whose life is a whirlwind of auditions, decisive meetings, and managing demanding actors. De Niro portrays the role with absolute finesse, bringing a sense of realism to the character’s struggles.
• Sean Penn appears as himself in the movie, and gives an outstanding performance, playing a version of himself entangled in Hollywood absurdities.
• Robin Wright stars as Ben's estranged wife Kelly, capturing the right balance of sympathy and frustration towards Ben.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie is an adaption of Art Linson's book, which is an autobiographical account of his experiences as a Hollywood film producer.
• Sean Penn plays himself in the film, adding an interesting layer to the satire of Hollywood life.

Quotes

• "It's a dog eat dog world, and I'm wearing Milk-bone underwear."
• "Who the Hell's gonna buy a ticket to an end of the world movie where everybody dies from a virus."

Music, Soundtrack

• "What Just Happened" by Marcelo Zarvos
• "Watching You Go" by Marcelo Zarvos
• "To Be a Somebody" by Marcelo Zarvos