Film art is of course a fine thing, but the most important question at the Venice Film Festival is: Did the pop star Harry Styles spit on the Hollywood star Chris Pine? At least that’s what many people think they can see in recordings of a premiere, the videos have of course had clicks in the millions for a long time. Musician Styles stars in the drama ‘Don’t Worry Darling’, which premiered in Venice. Pine also stars in the film, which is why the two sat next to each other in the cinema. Pine took his seat first, followed by Styles, and at least it looks like he’s going to spit in Pine’s lap before sitting down.
The cause is the next volte in a press tour that will probably be disastrous for all those responsible for PR. Because there had already been Zoff about the film before. Originally set to star Shia LaBeouf, director Olivia Wilde fired LaBeouf. At least that’s what she says. LaBeouf says he’s the one who decided to leave. He was then replaced by Harry Styles, who is now in a relationship with the director, who in turn no longer speaks to her leading lady, Florence Pugh. The two reportedly fell out completely, stoically ignoring each other on the red carpet and press conference podium appearances.
So now the supposed spit attack, which in turn was followed by the obligatory internet quake. And now: a denial. A spokesman for Pines announced in a tone of indignation: “This is a ridiculous story.” It is a “strange online illusion” and a “stupid speculation”. A drama would be constructed where there simply hadn’t been any. The two gentlemen feel “nothing but respect” for each other. Well then – back to the art of film.