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Julia Roberts and Mahershala Ali are two of the biggest stars in Hollywood, and they have teamed up for a new Netflix thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The film, titled “Leave the World Behind”, is based on the bestselling novel by Rumaan Alam, and tells the story of two families who face a mysterious and terrifying crisis while staying at a remote vacation home.
Roberts and Ali sat down with TODAY’s Hoda Kotb to talk about their roles in the film, and how they enjoyed working with each other and the rest of the cast, which includes Ethan Hawke, Myha’la Herrold, Charlie Evans, and Farrah Mackenzie. They also shared some insights into their family lives and parenting adult children.
Roberts plays Amanda, a mother of two who rents a luxurious house with her husband Clay (Hawke) for a weekend getaway. Their plans are disrupted when the owners of the house, G.H. (Ali) and his daughter Ruth (Herrold), show up unexpectedly, claiming that there has been a massive cyberattack that has affected the entire country. The two families are forced to coexist in a state of uncertainty and fear, as they try to figure out what is happening and how to survive.
Roberts said that she was drawn to the film because of the compelling premise and the opportunity to work with Ali, whom she admired for his previous work. “I just thought it was such an interesting story, and I was so excited to work with Mahershala,” she said. “He’s such a brilliant actor, and I just felt like we would have a great time together.”
Ali, who plays G.H., a successful businessman who owns the house, said that he was also a fan of Roberts, and that he enjoyed the challenge of playing a character who has to deal with a lot of emotions and conflicts. “She’s amazing, she’s a legend,” he said of Roberts. “And I think the story is really unique, and it puts these characters in a situation where they have to confront a lot of things about themselves and each other.”
The film, which is directed by Sam Esmail, the creator of “Mr. Robot”, explores themes such as trust, identity, family, and the fragility of civilization. It also features some stunning cinematography and a haunting score that create a tense and atmospheric mood. The film has received rave reviews from critics and audiences alike, and has been praised for its performances, direction, and adaptation of the novel.
Roberts and Ali also opened up about their personal lives, and how they balance their careers and their families. Roberts, who has three children with her husband Danny Moder, said that she is proud of her kids, who are now teenagers, and that she tries to be supportive and respectful of their choices. “They’re amazing, they’re so smart and funny and kind,” she said. “And I just try to give them space to be themselves, and to encourage them to follow their passions.”
Ali, who has two children with his wife Amatus Sami-Karim, said that he is grateful for his family, and that he loves being a father. He also said that he relates to his character G.H., who is very protective of his daughter, and that he hopes to instill in his kids a sense of confidence and curiosity. “They’re the best thing that ever happened to me,” he said. “And I just want them to know that they can do anything they want, and that they should always ask questions and learn new things.”
“Leave the World Behind” is now streaming on Netflix, and is one of the most anticipated films of the year. It is a gripping and thought-provoking thriller that will make you question your own reality, and appreciate the people you love. Don’t miss it!
Source: Conversation with Bing, 12/17/2023
(1) Leave the World Behind - Netflix. https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/leave-the-world-behind-release-date-photos.
(2) Julia Roberts, Mahershala Ali talk new Netflix thriller, parenting - TODAY. https://www.today.com/video/julia-roberts-and-mahershala-ali-talk-leave-the-world-behind-199311429598.
(3) ‘Leave the World Behind’ review: Julia Roberts and Mahershala Ali star .... https://www.cnn.com/2023/12/08/entertainment/leave-the-world-behind-review/index.html.
