USA TODAY and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Pricing and availability subject to change.There's a method to Billy Crudup's scenestealing 'Jay Kelly' magic Brian Truitt, USA TODAYDecember 5, 2025 at 9:00 PM 0 For eight minutes of "Jay Kelly," Billy Crudup ventures way out of his comfort zone to create some scenestealing movie magic. And you may never experience a menu the same.
- - USA TODAY and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Pricing and availability subject to change.There's a method to Billy Crudup's scene-stealing 'Jay Kelly' magic
Brian Truitt, USA TODAYDecember 5, 2025 at 9:00 PM
0
For eight minutes of "Jay Kelly," Billy Crudup ventures way out of his comfort zone to create some scene-stealing movie magic. And you may never experience a menu the same.
In director Noah Baumbach's dramedy (streaming on Netflix now), George Clooney plays Jay Kelly, an internationally beloved movie icon, while Crudup is Timothy, a child therapist and former friend who was the best thespian of their drama class. Early in the film, when they run into each other, Jay's excited to see his buddy and they go out to a bar.
"I could watch you do anything," Jay says, convincing Timothy to tackle the menu in the fashion of their old Method acting days. It leads to a hilariously tearful and overwrought reading of lines like "A wedge of iceberg lettuce and shrimp cocktail," complete with laughs and sobs alike.
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Former drama school friends Timothy (Billy Crudup, left) and Jay (George Clooney) have a tense confrontation in the Netflix meta dramedy "Jay Kelly."
But there's a turn, as Timothy comes clean about his real feelings about Jay: "I can't stand you. You kind of stole my life," he says. "You stole my job. And you stole my girlfriend. At 23, I didn't have much more than that." It leads to a parking-lot brawl that's an impetus for Jay's international trip of self-reflection, including a flashback to Jay's origin story where his younger self (Charlie Rowe) ends up getting a part in a movie that Timothy (Louis Partridge) coveted.
"Having the audacity as a character to turn on somebody like Jay Kelly, that was super fun," Crudup says. "That just gets you fired up, because whoever would do that?"
Crudup had been trying to work with Clooney for more than a decade and was "dying" to be in a Baumbach movie. But "when I read that particular scene, I was like, 'Oh f---.' That's a complicated maneuver to pull off," Crudup says. "To play a scene where it's mandated that some crazy emotions come out enough to impress the biggest star in the world about acting and send them on an existential journey, you're like, 'Ugh.' "
Because "Jay Kelly" is a movie about acting and how we all "perform" to a degree in our lives, Baumbach says he wanted a scene to "break it down for us and watch somebody have a very intense emotional experience and then go right back to, 'Is it real? What is it that actors do? Are they really having that experience or is it something that they're able to turn on and off?' "
But because Crudup isn't a Method actor – a performer who fully immerses themselves into a character's emotions and motivations – he argued with Baumbach to do the scene more in "how I approach acting," he says. "I said, 'I don't act for effect.' "
Baumbach has his own way of working, too. "There's the thing you do as a director, which is kind of pretend to listen and then do what you want to do anyway," he says with a laugh. "Billy kept saying to me, 'Maybe we change some of the dialogue so I could find my way into the way I do it, and the way that would help me cry.' I would just nod because I trusted that he was going to do it. And of course he did brilliantly."
Cynthia Erivo takes flight again as the magical Elphaba in "Wicked: For Good." Check out our exclusive peeks at the anticipated movie musical sequel and all the other new films you need to see this holiday season in theaters and on streaming services.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/PhDCO8F class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
Cynthia Erivo takes flight again as the magical Elphaba in "Wicked: For Good." Check out our exclusive peeks at the anticipated movie musical sequel and all the other new films you need to see this holiday season in theaters and on streaming services.
">Cynthia Erivo takes flight again as the magical Elphaba in "Wicked: For Good." Check out our exclusive peeks at the anticipated movie musical sequel and all the other new films you need to see this holiday season in theaters and on streaming services.
" src=https://ift.tt/PhDCO8F class=caas-img>"Jay Kelly" (now in theaters, Dec. 5 on Netflix): A-list movie star Jay (George Clooney, far left) embarks on a reflective trip with his feisty publicist (Laura Dern) and loyal manager (Adam Sandler) in the meta dramedy.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Jay Kelly" (now in theaters, Dec. 5 on Netflix): A-list movie star Jay (George Clooney, far left) embarks on a reflective trip with his feisty publicist (Laura Dern) and loyal manager (Adam Sandler) in the meta dramedy.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/XgJZSx3 class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Jay Kelly" (now in theaters, Dec. 5 on Netflix): A-list movie star Jay (George Clooney, far left) embarks on a reflective trip with his feisty publicist (Laura Dern) and loyal manager (Adam Sandler) in the meta dramedy.
">"Jay Kelly" (now in theaters, Dec. 5 on Netflix): A-list movie star Jay (George Clooney, far left) embarks on a reflective trip with his feisty publicist (Laura Dern) and loyal manager (Adam Sandler) in the meta dramedy.
" src=https://ift.tt/XgJZSx3 class=caas-img>"Now You See Me: Now You Don't" (now in theaters): Justice Smith (far left), Ariana Greenblatt and Dominic Sessa play a trio of skilled illusionists recruited by Jack Wilder (Dave Franco) for a diamond heist in the magic-filled action threequel.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Now You See Me: Now You Don't" (now in theaters): Justice Smith (far left), Ariana Greenblatt and Dominic Sessa play a trio of skilled illusionists recruited by Jack Wilder (Dave Franco) for a diamond heist in the magic-filled action threequel.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/TqRfgrL class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Now You See Me: Now You Don't" (now in theaters): Justice Smith (far left), Ariana Greenblatt and Dominic Sessa play a trio of skilled illusionists recruited by Jack Wilder (Dave Franco) for a diamond heist in the magic-filled action threequel.
">"Now You See Me: Now You Don't" (now in theaters): Justice Smith (far left), Ariana Greenblatt and Dominic Sessa play a trio of skilled illusionists recruited by Jack Wilder (Dave Franco) for a diamond heist in the magic-filled action threequel.
" src=https://ift.tt/TqRfgrL class=caas-img>"The Running Man" (now in theaters): In Edgar Wright's new take on Stephen King's dystopian thriller, a desperate father (Glen Powell) volunteers for the deadliest game show on TV where he'll win a billion dollars or die in the process.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"The Running Man" (now in theaters): In Edgar Wright's new take on Stephen King's dystopian thriller, a desperate father (Glen Powell) volunteers for the deadliest game show on TV where he'll win a billion dollars or die in the process.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/wyk6eMV class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"The Running Man" (now in theaters): In Edgar Wright's new take on Stephen King's dystopian thriller, a desperate father (Glen Powell) volunteers for the deadliest game show on TV where he'll win a billion dollars or die in the process.
">"The Running Man" (now in theaters): In Edgar Wright's new take on Stephen King's dystopian thriller, a desperate father (Glen Powell) volunteers for the deadliest game show on TV where he'll win a billion dollars or die in the process.
" src=https://ift.tt/wyk6eMV class=caas-img>"Champagne Problems" (Nov. 19 on Netflix): Minka Kelly stars as an executive who ventures to France to acquire a popular champagne brand before Christmas and falls for the founder's son (Tom Wozniczka) in the holiday rom-com.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Champagne Problems" (Nov. 19 on Netflix): Minka Kelly stars as an executive who ventures to France to acquire a popular champagne brand before Christmas and falls for the founder's son (Tom Wozniczka) in the holiday rom-com.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/Xt1HQib class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Champagne Problems" (Nov. 19 on Netflix): Minka Kelly stars as an executive who ventures to France to acquire a popular champagne brand before Christmas and falls for the founder's son (Tom Wozniczka) in the holiday rom-com.
">"Champagne Problems" (Nov. 19 on Netflix): Minka Kelly stars as an executive who ventures to France to acquire a popular champagne brand before Christmas and falls for the founder's son (Tom Wozniczka) in the holiday rom-com.
" src=https://ift.tt/Xt1HQib class=caas-img>"The Family Plan 2" (Nov. 21 on Apple TV): Ex-assassin Dan (Mark Wahlberg) and wife Jessica (Michelle Monaghan) have a planned European family vacation go awry when Dan's old enemy shows up in the action-comedy sequel.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"The Family Plan 2" (Nov. 21 on Apple TV): Ex-assassin Dan (Mark Wahlberg) and wife Jessica (Michelle Monaghan) have a planned European family vacation go awry when Dan's old enemy shows up in the action-comedy sequel.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/9kbARhe class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"The Family Plan 2" (Nov. 21 on Apple TV): Ex-assassin Dan (Mark Wahlberg) and wife Jessica (Michelle Monaghan) have a planned European family vacation go awry when Dan's old enemy shows up in the action-comedy sequel.
">"The Family Plan 2" (Nov. 21 on Apple TV): Ex-assassin Dan (Mark Wahlberg) and wife Jessica (Michelle Monaghan) have a planned European family vacation go awry when Dan's old enemy shows up in the action-comedy sequel.
" src=https://ift.tt/9kbARhe class=caas-img>"Rental Family" (Nov. 21 in theaters): An American actor (Brendan Fraser, left) works for a company that hires him out to play roles in people's lives including as a journalist interviewing a Japanese film legend (Akira Emoto).
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Rental Family" (Nov. 21 in theaters): An American actor (Brendan Fraser, left) works for a company that hires him out to play roles in people's lives including as a journalist interviewing a Japanese film legend (Akira Emoto).
" data-src=https://ift.tt/TpIb0yt class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Rental Family" (Nov. 21 in theaters): An American actor (Brendan Fraser, left) works for a company that hires him out to play roles in people's lives including as a journalist interviewing a Japanese film legend (Akira Emoto).
">"Rental Family" (Nov. 21 in theaters): An American actor (Brendan Fraser, left) works for a company that hires him out to play roles in people's lives including as a journalist interviewing a Japanese film legend (Akira Emoto).
" src=https://ift.tt/TpIb0yt class=caas-img>"Sisu: Road to Revenge" (Nov. 21 in theaters): Jorma Tommila reprises his role as a hard-to-kill ex-soldier who returns home and is pursued by the man who murdered his family in the action thriller sequel.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Sisu: Road to Revenge" (Nov. 21 in theaters): Jorma Tommila reprises his role as a hard-to-kill ex-soldier who returns home and is pursued by the man who murdered his family in the action thriller sequel.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/I5NBsmL class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Sisu: Road to Revenge" (Nov. 21 in theaters): Jorma Tommila reprises his role as a hard-to-kill ex-soldier who returns home and is pursued by the man who murdered his family in the action thriller sequel.
">"Sisu: Road to Revenge" (Nov. 21 in theaters): Jorma Tommila reprises his role as a hard-to-kill ex-soldier who returns home and is pursued by the man who murdered his family in the action thriller sequel.
" src=https://ift.tt/I5NBsmL class=caas-img>"Train Dreams" (Nov. 21 on Netflix): The period drama stars Joel Edgerton as a reserved lumberjack who helps to build the American railroad and meets a colorful cast of co-workers, but his job keeps him from his wife and young daughter.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Train Dreams" (Nov. 21 on Netflix): The period drama stars Joel Edgerton as a reserved lumberjack who helps to build the American railroad and meets a colorful cast of co-workers, but his job keeps him from his wife and young daughter.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/UEqIJli class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Train Dreams" (Nov. 21 on Netflix): The period drama stars Joel Edgerton as a reserved lumberjack who helps to build the American railroad and meets a colorful cast of co-workers, but his job keeps him from his wife and young daughter.
">"Train Dreams" (Nov. 21 on Netflix): The period drama stars Joel Edgerton as a reserved lumberjack who helps to build the American railroad and meets a colorful cast of co-workers, but his job keeps him from his wife and young daughter.
" src=https://ift.tt/UEqIJli class=caas-img>"Wicked: For Good" (Nov. 21 in theaters): The closer of Jon M. Chu's two-part movie musical features Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as fugitive witch Elphaba and her torn bestie Glinda, who must work together to save Oz.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Wicked: For Good" (Nov. 21 in theaters): The closer of Jon M. Chu's two-part movie musical features Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as fugitive witch Elphaba and her torn bestie Glinda, who must work together to save Oz.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/fqU2OIJ class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Wicked: For Good" (Nov. 21 in theaters): The closer of Jon M. Chu's two-part movie musical features Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as fugitive witch Elphaba and her torn bestie Glinda, who must work together to save Oz.
">"Wicked: For Good" (Nov. 21 in theaters): The closer of Jon M. Chu's two-part movie musical features Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as fugitive witch Elphaba and her torn bestie Glinda, who must work together to save Oz.
" src=https://ift.tt/fqU2OIJ class=caas-img>"Eternity" (Nov. 26 in theaters): In the fantasy romantic comedy, Larry (Miles Teller) arrives in the afterlife and waits for his wife Joan (Elizabeth Olsen) to decide where to spend eternity, but someone else has been pining for her, too.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Eternity" (Nov. 26 in theaters): In the fantasy romantic comedy, Larry (Miles Teller) arrives in the afterlife and waits for his wife Joan (Elizabeth Olsen) to decide where to spend eternity, but someone else has been pining for her, too.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/izEu2JW class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Eternity" (Nov. 26 in theaters): In the fantasy romantic comedy, Larry (Miles Teller) arrives in the afterlife and waits for his wife Joan (Elizabeth Olsen) to decide where to spend eternity, but someone else has been pining for her, too.
">"Eternity" (Nov. 26 in theaters): In the fantasy romantic comedy, Larry (Miles Teller) arrives in the afterlife and waits for his wife Joan (Elizabeth Olsen) to decide where to spend eternity, but someone else has been pining for her, too.
" src=https://ift.tt/izEu2JW class=caas-img>"Hamnet" (Nov. 26 in theaters): Director Chloé Zhao's family drama centers on William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) and his wife Agnes (Jessie Buckley), who navigate domestic issues and a gut-wrenching tragedy.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Hamnet" (Nov. 26 in theaters): Director Chloé Zhao's family drama centers on William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) and his wife Agnes (Jessie Buckley), who navigate domestic issues and a gut-wrenching tragedy.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/8TO1ADW class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Hamnet" (Nov. 26 in theaters): Director Chloé Zhao's family drama centers on William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) and his wife Agnes (Jessie Buckley), who navigate domestic issues and a gut-wrenching tragedy.
">"Hamnet" (Nov. 26 in theaters): Director Chloé Zhao's family drama centers on William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) and his wife Agnes (Jessie Buckley), who navigate domestic issues and a gut-wrenching tragedy.
" src=https://ift.tt/8TO1ADW class=caas-img>"Jingle Bell Heist" (Nov. 26 on Netflix): To get a fresh start in their lives, a retail worker (Olivia Holt) and repairman (Connor Swindells) plan on robbing the upscale London department store where they work in the holiday rom-com.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Jingle Bell Heist" (Nov. 26 on Netflix): To get a fresh start in their lives, a retail worker (Olivia Holt) and repairman (Connor Swindells) plan on robbing the upscale London department store where they work in the holiday rom-com.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/OgmzIYb class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Jingle Bell Heist" (Nov. 26 on Netflix): To get a fresh start in their lives, a retail worker (Olivia Holt) and repairman (Connor Swindells) plan on robbing the upscale London department store where they work in the holiday rom-com.
">"Jingle Bell Heist" (Nov. 26 on Netflix): To get a fresh start in their lives, a retail worker (Olivia Holt) and repairman (Connor Swindells) plan on robbing the upscale London department store where they work in the holiday rom-com.
" src=https://ift.tt/OgmzIYb class=caas-img>"Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery" (Nov. 26 in theaters, Dec. 12 on Netflix): Ace detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig, left) helps young priest Father Jud (Josh O'Connor) when he's accused of murder in Rian Johnson's third all-star mystery.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery" (Nov. 26 in theaters, Dec. 12 on Netflix): Ace detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig, left) helps young priest Father Jud (Josh O'Connor) when he's accused of murder in Rian Johnson's third all-star mystery.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/9iOtq7D class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery" (Nov. 26 in theaters, Dec. 12 on Netflix): Ace detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig, left) helps young priest Father Jud (Josh O'Connor) when he's accused of murder in Rian Johnson's third all-star mystery.
">"Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery" (Nov. 26 in theaters, Dec. 12 on Netflix): Ace detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig, left) helps young priest Father Jud (Josh O'Connor) when he's accused of murder in Rian Johnson's third all-star mystery.
" src=https://ift.tt/9iOtq7D class=caas-img>"Zootopia 2" (Nov. 26 in theaters): The Disney animated sequel catches up with Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin, left) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), who are now partners in the police force investigating a mysterious snake.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Zootopia 2" (Nov. 26 in theaters): The Disney animated sequel catches up with Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin, left) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), who are now partners in the police force investigating a mysterious snake.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/j7mBZIt class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Zootopia 2" (Nov. 26 in theaters): The Disney animated sequel catches up with Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin, left) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), who are now partners in the police force investigating a mysterious snake.
">"Zootopia 2" (Nov. 26 in theaters): The Disney animated sequel catches up with Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin, left) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), who are now partners in the police force investigating a mysterious snake.
" src=https://ift.tt/j7mBZIt class=caas-img>"Left-Handed Girl" (Nov. 28 on Netflix): Nina Ye (left) and Shih-Yuan Ma (in mirror) play sisters who return to Taipei with their mom after several years of living in the countryside and struggle adapting to a new environment in the drama.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Left-Handed Girl" (Nov. 28 on Netflix): Nina Ye (left) and Shih-Yuan Ma (in mirror) play sisters who return to Taipei with their mom after several years of living in the countryside and struggle adapting to a new environment in the drama.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/xFcgh08 class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Left-Handed Girl" (Nov. 28 on Netflix): Nina Ye (left) and Shih-Yuan Ma (in mirror) play sisters who return to Taipei with their mom after several years of living in the countryside and struggle adapting to a new environment in the drama.
">"Left-Handed Girl" (Nov. 28 on Netflix): Nina Ye (left) and Shih-Yuan Ma (in mirror) play sisters who return to Taipei with their mom after several years of living in the countryside and struggle adapting to a new environment in the drama.
" src=https://ift.tt/xFcgh08 class=caas-img>"The Stringer: The Man Who Took the Photo" (Nov. 28 on Netflix): The documentary investigates if Nguyễn Thành Nghệ (right, with daughter Jannie Nguyễn), a freelance photographer during the Vietnam War, took the famous "Napalm Girl" photo and not the long-credited photographer.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"The Stringer: The Man Who Took the Photo" (Nov. 28 on Netflix): The documentary investigates if Nguyễn Thành Nghệ (right, with daughter Jannie Nguyễn), a freelance photographer during the Vietnam War, took the famous "Napalm Girl" photo and not the long-credited photographer.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/uTo6sni class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"The Stringer: The Man Who Took the Photo" (Nov. 28 on Netflix): The documentary investigates if Nguyễn Thành Nghệ (right, with daughter Jannie Nguyễn), a freelance photographer during the Vietnam War, took the famous "Napalm Girl" photo and not the long-credited photographer.
">"The Stringer: The Man Who Took the Photo" (Nov. 28 on Netflix): The documentary investigates if Nguyễn Thành Nghệ (right, with daughter Jannie Nguyễn), a freelance photographer during the Vietnam War, took the famous "Napalm Girl" photo and not the long-credited photographer.
" src=https://ift.tt/uTo6sni class=caas-img>"Troll 2" (Dec. 1 on Netflix): In the monster movie sequel, returning heroes are forced to deal with a gigantic creature nicknamed "Megatroll" when it's awakened and goes on a destructive rampage across Norway.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Troll 2" (Dec. 1 on Netflix): In the monster movie sequel, returning heroes are forced to deal with a gigantic creature nicknamed "Megatroll" when it's awakened and goes on a destructive rampage across Norway.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/QduzfhW class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Troll 2" (Dec. 1 on Netflix): In the monster movie sequel, returning heroes are forced to deal with a gigantic creature nicknamed "Megatroll" when it's awakened and goes on a destructive rampage across Norway.
">"Troll 2" (Dec. 1 on Netflix): In the monster movie sequel, returning heroes are forced to deal with a gigantic creature nicknamed "Megatroll" when it's awakened and goes on a destructive rampage across Norway.
" src=https://ift.tt/QduzfhW class=caas-img>"My Secret Santa" (Dec. 3 on Netflix): The holiday rom-com stars Alexandra Breckenridge as a single mom in need of a job who disguises herself as a man to nab a seasonal Santa gig at a luxury ski resort and falls for the hotel manager.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"My Secret Santa" (Dec. 3 on Netflix): The holiday rom-com stars Alexandra Breckenridge as a single mom in need of a job who disguises herself as a man to nab a seasonal Santa gig at a luxury ski resort and falls for the hotel manager.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/JvOsWBu class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"My Secret Santa" (Dec. 3 on Netflix): The holiday rom-com stars Alexandra Breckenridge as a single mom in need of a job who disguises herself as a man to nab a seasonal Santa gig at a luxury ski resort and falls for the hotel manager.
">"My Secret Santa" (Dec. 3 on Netflix): The holiday rom-com stars Alexandra Breckenridge as a single mom in need of a job who disguises herself as a man to nab a seasonal Santa gig at a luxury ski resort and falls for the hotel manager.
" src=https://ift.tt/JvOsWBu class=caas-img>"Oh. What. Fun." (Dec. 3 on Prime Video): In the holiday comedy, a Texas mom (Michelle Pfeiffer) who lives for Christmas is accidentally left behind – "Home Alone" style – for an important event by her family.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Oh. What. Fun." (Dec. 3 on Prime Video): In the holiday comedy, a Texas mom (Michelle Pfeiffer) who lives for Christmas is accidentally left behind – "Home Alone" style – for an important event by her family.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/TClLpRU class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Oh. What. Fun." (Dec. 3 on Prime Video): In the holiday comedy, a Texas mom (Michelle Pfeiffer) who lives for Christmas is accidentally left behind – "Home Alone" style – for an important event by her family.
">"Oh. What. Fun." (Dec. 3 on Prime Video): In the holiday comedy, a Texas mom (Michelle Pfeiffer) who lives for Christmas is accidentally left behind – "Home Alone" style – for an important event by her family.
" src=https://ift.tt/TClLpRU class=caas-img>"Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw" (Dec. 5 on Disney+): Greg (voiced by Aaron D. Harris, left) and his dad Frank (Chris Diamantopoulos) bond while attending a wilderness camp in the latest animated comedy based on Jeff Kinney's popular books.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw" (Dec. 5 on Disney+): Greg (voiced by Aaron D. Harris, left) and his dad Frank (Chris Diamantopoulos) bond while attending a wilderness camp in the latest animated comedy based on Jeff Kinney's popular books.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/ilMdhmn class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw" (Dec. 5 on Disney+): Greg (voiced by Aaron D. Harris, left) and his dad Frank (Chris Diamantopoulos) bond while attending a wilderness camp in the latest animated comedy based on Jeff Kinney's popular books.
">"Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw" (Dec. 5 on Disney+): Greg (voiced by Aaron D. Harris, left) and his dad Frank (Chris Diamantopoulos) bond while attending a wilderness camp in the latest animated comedy based on Jeff Kinney's popular books.
" src=https://ift.tt/ilMdhmn class=caas-img>"The Family McMullen" (Dec. 5 on HBO Max): Ed Burns (above center) returns to write, direct and star in a sequel to the 1995 indie cult classic, which brings a family back to its Long Island home for reunions and romance.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"The Family McMullen" (Dec. 5 on HBO Max): Ed Burns (above center) returns to write, direct and star in a sequel to the 1995 indie cult classic, which brings a family back to its Long Island home for reunions and romance.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/vKVO9Md class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"The Family McMullen" (Dec. 5 on HBO Max): Ed Burns (above center) returns to write, direct and star in a sequel to the 1995 indie cult classic, which brings a family back to its Long Island home for reunions and romance.
">"The Family McMullen" (Dec. 5 on HBO Max): Ed Burns (above center) returns to write, direct and star in a sequel to the 1995 indie cult classic, which brings a family back to its Long Island home for reunions and romance.
" src=https://ift.tt/vKVO9Md class=caas-img>"Five Nights at Freddy's 2" (Dec. 5 in theaters): Vanessa (Elizabeth Lail) and Mike (Josh Hutcherson) again have to deal with the murderous animatronic animals of Freddy Fazbear's Pizza in the horror sequel.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Five Nights at Freddy's 2" (Dec. 5 in theaters): Vanessa (Elizabeth Lail) and Mike (Josh Hutcherson) again have to deal with the murderous animatronic animals of Freddy Fazbear's Pizza in the horror sequel.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/Frmbj2s class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Five Nights at Freddy's 2" (Dec. 5 in theaters): Vanessa (Elizabeth Lail) and Mike (Josh Hutcherson) again have to deal with the murderous animatronic animals of Freddy Fazbear's Pizza in the horror sequel.
">"Five Nights at Freddy's 2" (Dec. 5 in theaters): Vanessa (Elizabeth Lail) and Mike (Josh Hutcherson) again have to deal with the murderous animatronic animals of Freddy Fazbear's Pizza in the horror sequel.
" src=https://ift.tt/Frmbj2s class=caas-img>"Merv" (Dec. 10 in theaters): When beloved dog Merv begins to show signs of depression after their recent breakup, Anna (Zooey Deschanel) and her ex take him to a pet-friendly beach resort in Florida in the holiday comedy.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Merv" (Dec. 10 in theaters): When beloved dog Merv begins to show signs of depression after their recent breakup, Anna (Zooey Deschanel) and her ex take him to a pet-friendly beach resort in Florida in the holiday comedy.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/a5GIeRr class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Merv" (Dec. 10 in theaters): When beloved dog Merv begins to show signs of depression after their recent breakup, Anna (Zooey Deschanel) and her ex take him to a pet-friendly beach resort in Florida in the holiday comedy.
">"Merv" (Dec. 10 in theaters): When beloved dog Merv begins to show signs of depression after their recent breakup, Anna (Zooey Deschanel) and her ex take him to a pet-friendly beach resort in Florida in the holiday comedy.
" src=https://ift.tt/a5GIeRr class=caas-img>"Ella McCay" (Dec. 12 in theaters): Ella (Emma Mackey, right), who's named governor of her home state when her mentor steps down, gets advice from her Aunt Helen (Jamie Lee Curtis) in the James L. Brooks political dramedy.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Ella McCay" (Dec. 12 in theaters): Ella (Emma Mackey, right), who's named governor of her home state when her mentor steps down, gets advice from her Aunt Helen (Jamie Lee Curtis) in the James L. Brooks political dramedy.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/0zQFNIH class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Ella McCay" (Dec. 12 in theaters): Ella (Emma Mackey, right), who's named governor of her home state when her mentor steps down, gets advice from her Aunt Helen (Jamie Lee Curtis) in the James L. Brooks political dramedy.
">"Ella McCay" (Dec. 12 in theaters): Ella (Emma Mackey, right), who's named governor of her home state when her mentor steps down, gets advice from her Aunt Helen (Jamie Lee Curtis) in the James L. Brooks political dramedy.
" src=https://ift.tt/0zQFNIH class=caas-img>"Goodbye June" (Dec. 12 in theaters, Dec. 24 on Netflix): Kate Winslet marks her directorial debut and also stars in this emotional Christmas drama about siblings reuniting for one last holiday season with their dying mother.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Goodbye June" (Dec. 12 in theaters, Dec. 24 on Netflix): Kate Winslet marks her directorial debut and also stars in this emotional Christmas drama about siblings reuniting for one last holiday season with their dying mother.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/r2Y6ERZ class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Goodbye June" (Dec. 12 in theaters, Dec. 24 on Netflix): Kate Winslet marks her directorial debut and also stars in this emotional Christmas drama about siblings reuniting for one last holiday season with their dying mother.
">"Goodbye June" (Dec. 12 in theaters, Dec. 24 on Netflix): Kate Winslet marks her directorial debut and also stars in this emotional Christmas drama about siblings reuniting for one last holiday season with their dying mother.
" src=https://ift.tt/r2Y6ERZ class=caas-img>"Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The Final Show" (Dec. 12 on Disney+): A companion to a new six-part docuseries, the concert film captures the last show of Taylor Swift's record-breaking Eras Tour in Vancouver.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The Final Show" (Dec. 12 on Disney+): A companion to a new six-part docuseries, the concert film captures the last show of Taylor Swift's record-breaking Eras Tour in Vancouver.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/mTVnuza class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The Final Show" (Dec. 12 on Disney+): A companion to a new six-part docuseries, the concert film captures the last show of Taylor Swift's record-breaking Eras Tour in Vancouver.
">"Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The Final Show" (Dec. 12 on Disney+): A companion to a new six-part docuseries, the concert film captures the last show of Taylor Swift's record-breaking Eras Tour in Vancouver.
" src=https://ift.tt/mTVnuza class=caas-img>"Avatar: Fire and Ash" (Dec. 19 in theaters): New antagonist Varang (Oona Chaplin) is the fierce leader of the Ash People in James Cameron's sci-fi adventure, which catches up with Jake Sully and his family on Pandora.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Avatar: Fire and Ash" (Dec. 19 in theaters): New antagonist Varang (Oona Chaplin) is the fierce leader of the Ash People in James Cameron's sci-fi adventure, which catches up with Jake Sully and his family on Pandora.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/0NLYpVI class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Avatar: Fire and Ash" (Dec. 19 in theaters): New antagonist Varang (Oona Chaplin) is the fierce leader of the Ash People in James Cameron's sci-fi adventure, which catches up with Jake Sully and his family on Pandora.
">"Avatar: Fire and Ash" (Dec. 19 in theaters): New antagonist Varang (Oona Chaplin) is the fierce leader of the Ash People in James Cameron's sci-fi adventure, which catches up with Jake Sully and his family on Pandora.
" src=https://ift.tt/0NLYpVI class=caas-img>"The Housemaid" (Dec. 19 in theaters): Based on the Freida McFadden novel, the psychological thriller stars Sydney Sweeney (left) as the new live-in housemaid for a wealthy wife (Amanda Seyfried) – a dream gig that turns into a nightmare.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"The Housemaid" (Dec. 19 in theaters): Based on the Freida McFadden novel, the psychological thriller stars Sydney Sweeney (left) as the new live-in housemaid for a wealthy wife (Amanda Seyfried) – a dream gig that turns into a nightmare.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/1q0bHC4 class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"The Housemaid" (Dec. 19 in theaters): Based on the Freida McFadden novel, the psychological thriller stars Sydney Sweeney (left) as the new live-in housemaid for a wealthy wife (Amanda Seyfried) – a dream gig that turns into a nightmare.
">"The Housemaid" (Dec. 19 in theaters): Based on the Freida McFadden novel, the psychological thriller stars Sydney Sweeney (left) as the new live-in housemaid for a wealthy wife (Amanda Seyfried) – a dream gig that turns into a nightmare.
" src=https://ift.tt/1q0bHC4 class=caas-img>"Is This Thing On?" (Dec. 19 in theaters): The dramedy stars Will Arnett (center, with Bradley Cooper and Andra Day) as a middle-aged dad who finds a new and therapeutic hobby when he signs up for an open mic comedy night.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Is This Thing On?" (Dec. 19 in theaters): The dramedy stars Will Arnett (center, with Bradley Cooper and Andra Day) as a middle-aged dad who finds a new and therapeutic hobby when he signs up for an open mic comedy night.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/1Js94P0 class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Is This Thing On?" (Dec. 19 in theaters): The dramedy stars Will Arnett (center, with Bradley Cooper and Andra Day) as a middle-aged dad who finds a new and therapeutic hobby when he signs up for an open mic comedy night.
">"Is This Thing On?" (Dec. 19 in theaters): The dramedy stars Will Arnett (center, with Bradley Cooper and Andra Day) as a middle-aged dad who finds a new and therapeutic hobby when he signs up for an open mic comedy night.
" src=https://ift.tt/1Js94P0 class=caas-img>"The SpongeBob Movie: Search For SquarePants" (Dec. 19 in theaters): The animated comedy adventure finds SpongeBob (voiced by Tom Kenny, left) on a quest where he runs afoul of the villainous Flying Dutchman (Mark Hamill).
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"The SpongeBob Movie: Search For SquarePants" (Dec. 19 in theaters): The animated comedy adventure finds SpongeBob (voiced by Tom Kenny, left) on a quest where he runs afoul of the villainous Flying Dutchman (Mark Hamill).
" data-src=https://ift.tt/YBteSDG class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"The SpongeBob Movie: Search For SquarePants" (Dec. 19 in theaters): The animated comedy adventure finds SpongeBob (voiced by Tom Kenny, left) on a quest where he runs afoul of the villainous Flying Dutchman (Mark Hamill).
">"The SpongeBob Movie: Search For SquarePants" (Dec. 19 in theaters): The animated comedy adventure finds SpongeBob (voiced by Tom Kenny, left) on a quest where he runs afoul of the villainous Flying Dutchman (Mark Hamill).
" src=https://ift.tt/YBteSDG class=caas-img>"The Plague" (Dec. 24 in theaters): Joel Edgerton (center) stars in the coming-of-age psychological thriller as a coach at a water polo summer camp where the youngsters bully and turn on each other, leading to a violent outburst.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"The Plague" (Dec. 24 in theaters): Joel Edgerton (center) stars in the coming-of-age psychological thriller as a coach at a water polo summer camp where the youngsters bully and turn on each other, leading to a violent outburst.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/JO7lHY2 class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"The Plague" (Dec. 24 in theaters): Joel Edgerton (center) stars in the coming-of-age psychological thriller as a coach at a water polo summer camp where the youngsters bully and turn on each other, leading to a violent outburst.
">"The Plague" (Dec. 24 in theaters): Joel Edgerton (center) stars in the coming-of-age psychological thriller as a coach at a water polo summer camp where the youngsters bully and turn on each other, leading to a violent outburst.
" src=https://ift.tt/JO7lHY2 class=caas-img>"Anaconda" (Dec. 25 in theaters): The action comedy stars Jack Black (center) and Paul Rudd as best friends who venture to the jungle in a mission to find a gigantic snake for a remake of their favorite movie.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Anaconda" (Dec. 25 in theaters): The action comedy stars Jack Black (center) and Paul Rudd as best friends who venture to the jungle in a mission to find a gigantic snake for a remake of their favorite movie.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/OfgUSc0 class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Anaconda" (Dec. 25 in theaters): The action comedy stars Jack Black (center) and Paul Rudd as best friends who venture to the jungle in a mission to find a gigantic snake for a remake of their favorite movie.
">"Anaconda" (Dec. 25 in theaters): The action comedy stars Jack Black (center) and Paul Rudd as best friends who venture to the jungle in a mission to find a gigantic snake for a remake of their favorite movie.
" src=https://ift.tt/OfgUSc0 class=caas-img>"Marty Supreme" (Dec. 25 in theaters): In the 1950s-set sports dramedy, Timothy Chalamet (right, with director Josh Safdie) stars as a shoe-selling ping-pong ace who dreams of becoming a world champion.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Marty Supreme" (Dec. 25 in theaters): In the 1950s-set sports dramedy, Timothy Chalamet (right, with director Josh Safdie) stars as a shoe-selling ping-pong ace who dreams of becoming a world champion.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/KDGiI1m class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Marty Supreme" (Dec. 25 in theaters): In the 1950s-set sports dramedy, Timothy Chalamet (right, with director Josh Safdie) stars as a shoe-selling ping-pong ace who dreams of becoming a world champion.
">"Marty Supreme" (Dec. 25 in theaters): In the 1950s-set sports dramedy, Timothy Chalamet (right, with director Josh Safdie) stars as a shoe-selling ping-pong ace who dreams of becoming a world champion.
" src=https://ift.tt/KDGiI1m class=caas-img>"No Other Choice" (Dec. 25 in theaters): Park Chan-wook's darkly comedic thriller stars Lee Byung-hun as a guy in the cutthroat paper industry who attempts to take out his competition for a new job.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"No Other Choice" (Dec. 25 in theaters): Park Chan-wook's darkly comedic thriller stars Lee Byung-hun as a guy in the cutthroat paper industry who attempts to take out his competition for a new job.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/nyq2X94 class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"No Other Choice" (Dec. 25 in theaters): Park Chan-wook's darkly comedic thriller stars Lee Byung-hun as a guy in the cutthroat paper industry who attempts to take out his competition for a new job.
">"No Other Choice" (Dec. 25 in theaters): Park Chan-wook's darkly comedic thriller stars Lee Byung-hun as a guy in the cutthroat paper industry who attempts to take out his competition for a new job.
" src=https://ift.tt/nyq2X94 class=caas-img>"Song Sung Blue" (Dec. 25 in theaters): Based on a true story, the musical drama follows a Vietnam vet (Hugh Jackman) who meets another struggling divorced musician (Kate Hudson) and they form a popular Neil Diamond tribute band.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"Song Sung Blue" (Dec. 25 in theaters): Based on a true story, the musical drama follows a Vietnam vet (Hugh Jackman) who meets another struggling divorced musician (Kate Hudson) and they form a popular Neil Diamond tribute band.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/WLXbz8J class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"Song Sung Blue" (Dec. 25 in theaters): Based on a true story, the musical drama follows a Vietnam vet (Hugh Jackman) who meets another struggling divorced musician (Kate Hudson) and they form a popular Neil Diamond tribute band.
">"Song Sung Blue" (Dec. 25 in theaters): Based on a true story, the musical drama follows a Vietnam vet (Hugh Jackman) who meets another struggling divorced musician (Kate Hudson) and they form a popular Neil Diamond tribute band.
" src=https://ift.tt/WLXbz8J class=caas-img>"The Testament of Ann Lee" (Dec. 25 in theaters): The historical musical drama stars Amanda Seyfried (center) as Ann Lee, who found followers and critics alike as the leader of the Shakers religious movement in the 18th century.
" style=padding-bottom:56%>"The Testament of Ann Lee" (Dec. 25 in theaters): The historical musical drama stars Amanda Seyfried (center) as Ann Lee, who found followers and critics alike as the leader of the Shakers religious movement in the 18th century.
" data-src=https://ift.tt/KBkT35a class=caas-img data-headline="From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies" data-caption="
"The Testament of Ann Lee" (Dec. 25 in theaters): The historical musical drama stars Amanda Seyfried (center) as Ann Lee, who found followers and critics alike as the leader of the Shakers religious movement in the 18th century.
">"The Testament of Ann Lee" (Dec. 25 in theaters): The historical musical drama stars Amanda Seyfried (center) as Ann Lee, who found followers and critics alike as the leader of the Shakers religious movement in the 18th century.
" src=https://ift.tt/KBkT35a class=caas-img>
1 / 37From 'Zootopia 2' to 'Knives Out 3,' exclusive peeks at the holiday season's top movies
Cynthia Erivo takes flight again as the magical Elphaba in "Wicked: For Good." Check out our exclusive peeks at the anticipated movie musical sequel and all the other new films you need to see this holiday season in theaters and on streaming services.
Because Crudup had studied some Method acting, he used a tool called sense memory, "where you go to a very difficult place in your own life and you detail the world around you that you can recall: the fabric on the chair, the smell, the temperature in the air, what the other people were wearing, the feeling of your own heart." Viewers can see in the scene when Timothy/Crudup is stoking the emotions inside and then uses the menu items to communicate that feeling.
"After we did it 20 or 30 times or so, the biochemistry is not operating in the same way anymore," Crudup says. "I started to tell a story and I could see George just holding on me like, 'Oh God, how far is Billy going to go with this?' It provoked a response in me, and we were able to keep shooting it."
Overall, it was "a very different way than I work and quite awkward in many respects. But it does have to do with retraumatizing yourself," Crudup adds, chuckling. "It was fun and all, but I don't see myself doing that again."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Jay Kelly' movie moment 'fired up' Billy Crudup
Source: "AOL Entertainment"
Source: Entertainment
Published: December 05, 2025 at 03:45PM on Source: RED MAG
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