There are typically two types of biopics. One is the type that enjoys the full cooperation and support from the real-life subject of the feature. And the other is the type of film that is made based on a third party account of events, and it isn’t endorsed by the subject and/or family. The Oscar-nominated film, “Judy,” appears to be in that latter category, as is evidenced by a new interview with Judy Garland’s daughter Liza Minnelli.
Speaking to Variety, Minnelli made it clear that she has zero interest in seeing “Judy,” but does have a comment about the film. She said, “I hope [Renee Zellweger] had a good time making it.”
While she didn’t comment on the film with Variety, Minnelli has been vocal about the film previously. In a Facebook post, Minnelli wrote, “I have never met nor spoken to Renee Zellweger… I don’t know how these stories get started, but I do not approve nor sanction the upcoming film about Judy Garland in any way. Any reports to the contrary are 100% Fiction.”
Even though Garland isn’t interested in the film, and has spoken against it previously, Oscar-nominated star of the film, Renee Zellweger, feels that “Judy” was made with the purest intentions.
“They should know that everybody on that set was motivated by their love for her and their appreciation for … her work [and] her legacy that touched them,” the actress said. “We just wanted to do our best for her.”
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The film’s director, Rupert Goold, echoed that sentiment and explained why he understood Minnelli’s issues with the film. “I’m not sure I’d want to see a movie about my mother,” he said. “Not that I don’t love my mother or love filmmaking but because it’s a very personal relationship. I hope if they do get to see it, they’ll sense … the celebration and the love we have for her as a person.”
“Judy” is likely going to get at least one Oscar this Sunday night for Zellweger, but we probably shouldn’t expect Minnelli joining the celebration.