Ethan Hawke has expressed strong confidence in his upcoming collaboration with director Richard Linklater, calling it “the best one” of their ten films together. This statement came during an appearance on the Today show on January 7, 2025, where Hawke discussed their latest project, titled Blue Moon.
The actor and director duo have previously worked on nine films, including the acclaimed Before Trilogy and Boyhood. Hawke believes that their tenth film will surpass all their past achievements, stating, “Everything’s been preparation for what’s to come. The 10th is going to be the best.” His assertion prompted host Craig Melvin to remark on the boldness of this claim, to which Hawke confidently replied, “I’m not even shy. I’m not even nervous about saying it.”
Hawke revealed that the idea for this project has been in development since 1998, and Linklater has had it in mind for an even longer time. “He’s had this dream for a long time in his head, and it’s gonna be good,” Hawke emphasized. The actor went so far as to predict that this film would be “among the greatest films ever made.” He also mentioned that audiences can expect to see the film released around 2027.
A Period Piece on Transcendentalism
While specific plot details remain under wraps, Hawke confirmed that the film will be a period piece. This aligns with comments made by Linklater during a November 2025 interview with Filmmaker magazine. The director indicated that he aims to explore themes related to 19th-century American transcendentalists, including figures like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Margaret Fuller, and Henry David Thoreau.
Linklater described the project as focusing on the “American radicals” of the time, who were early proponents of movements such as feminism, environmentalism, and abolitionism. He pointed out the political climate of the era, noting, “They’ve got a s—– president, Andrew Jackson.”
Hawke also mentioned the possibility of casting high-profile actors in the film, including Natalie Portman and Oscar Isaac. As of now, it remains unclear whether either actor has officially joined the cast.
The anticipation surrounding this project reflects Hawke and Linklater’s successful history of collaboration, with both artists renowned for their thoughtful and impactful storytelling. As the film progresses towards its anticipated release, fans of their work will undoubtedly be eager to see how this latest venture unfolds.
