During a recent episode of "The View," actress Glenn Close shared insights into her experience working on the film "Hillbilly Elegy."
According to Fox News, She discussed the involvement of author and Vice President-elect JD Vance and the noticeable changes in his political stance.
Glenn Close portrayed JD Vance’s grandmother in the movie, which is based on Vance’s memoir outlining his Ohio upbringing. The narrative dives deep into the challenges of rural American life.
The family's cooperation was crucial for the film's authenticity. Glenn Close highlighted the generosity of Vance's family: "The family was very generous with their time," she noted, acknowledging their open sharing of personal stories and traits.
Vance’s visits to the set, along with his supportive guidance to the actors, specifically the young actor playing his younger self, added depth to the portrayal.
JD Vance’s transition from memoir author to political figure was a focal point of discussion in "The View." His election as a U.S. Senator from Ohio in 2022 and subsequent selection as Donald Trump's running mate in 2024 marked a significant shift in his career trajectory.
Co-host Joy Behar remarked on Vance's transformation over the years, suggesting a dramatic shift in his personality. As a result, Vance has been both a figure of interest and controversy.
Sunny Hostin, another co-host, criticized Vance's recent rhetoric: "Well, now he's talking about childless cat ladies." This comment underscores the shift in Vance’s public persona and political communications.
While the film adaptation focuses on personal struggle and familial relationships, it notably steers away from the more politicized elements of Vance’s original memoir. Critics have voiced concerns that the movie lacks the political commentary that characterized Vance's book, which tackled complex socio-economic issues faced by the working class in Appalachia.
Some reviewers have been sharply critical of "Hillbilly Elegy." David Fear from Rolling Stone observed that the "Politically conservative, anti-welfare streak in the author’s writing feels surgically removed."
Clarisse Loughrey from The Independent described the film as an "Irresponsible parade of death and despair," while Peter Debruge of Variety suggested that Vance's political ascent might've been bolstered inadvertently through the film's influence, stating, “Vance may have risen to become President-elect Trump's vice president thanks to Hollywood’s help.”
Despite the criticism, the film was not intended to serve as a political statement, as asserted by the producers. This decision has sparked debates about the role of film in reflecting or shaping political perceptions. Reflecting on Vance’s new political alignment, Glenn Close expressed confusion and concern about his shift towards a more conservative stance. "I don't know what happened," she said, also noting that power can be a strong influence: "Power is an 'aphrodisiac.'"
In retrospect, the discussion on "The View" highlighted not just a film but also a real-life narrative of change, influence, and the divergent paths of personal and public life. As JD Vance continues his role in American politics, the juxtaposition of his past and present forms a compelling narrative that continues to captivate and provoke nationwide discussions.
