Capturing Friendship and Identity: Will & Harper's Timely Netflix Debut Before Election Day

https://icaro.icaromediagroup.com/system/images/photos/16359681/original/open-uri20240928-17-q12ikf?1727544464
ICARO Media Group
Entertainment
28/09/2024 17h26

**"Will & Harper": A Journey of Friendship and Identity Hits Netflix Before Election Day**

The timely release of Netflix’s new documentary "Will & Harper" aligns strategically just a few weeks ahead of Election Day. The film captures a deeply personal and transformative cross-country journey taken by renowned comedian Will Ferrell and former "Saturday Night Live" head writer Harper Steele, following her transition.

At the Los Angeles premiere of the documentary, Ferrell highlighted the purposeful timing of its release. "We wanted to ensure the film had sufficient visibility before the election to encourage significant conversations," he said. Since its debut at Sundance Film Festival in January, Steele noted an overwhelming response from families eager to watch it together, potentially fostering understanding and dialogue.

"We've received messages from people who are excited to experience this film with friends and family, even those who may hold differing views," Ferrell mentioned. He expressed hope that the documentary could gradually break down barriers through shared viewing.

Director Josh Greenbaum confessed initial concerns about capturing genuine vulnerability from the two comedians, but noted that those worries were unfounded. "Comedians aren't always open about their feelings, but within days of filming, both Will and Harper were candid and forthcoming," he shared.

Ferrell reflected on the deep conversations they had during their extensive time on the road. "It was remarkable how we managed to maintain meaningful dialogue for hours each day," he remarked. The film doesn’t shy away from Steele's challenges as she navigates familiar territories with a new identity, nor the backlash they faced on social media during their travels.

Despite these serious undercurrents, both Ferrell and Steele humorously downplayed the difficulties they encountered while filming, joking that the most troublesome aspect was simply starting their unreliable car each morning.

In a lighter moment, when asked about who they'd like to see cast in a potential scripted adaptation of the documentary, Steele suggested actress Hunter Schafer, while Ferrell cheekily recommended Leonardo DiCaprio for his role. Steele jested, "He'd probably have to put on a bit of ugly makeup to look like you."

"Will & Harper" is not just a documentary; it's a heartfelt exploration of friendship, resilience, and the power of personal stories to initiate broader social conversations.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

Related