Austin, Texas – The chemistry between Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine in “The Idea of You” was palpable from the first touch, sending the audience at the SXSW world premiere into a frenzy. The crowd erupted with gasps, shrieks, and applause as the actors shared a tender moment on screen.
After the film ended, an emotional Hathaway took the stage for a Q&A session at Austin’s Paramount Theater. Overwhelmed with gratitude, she expressed her love for the audience and thanked them for being so connected to every nuance of the film.
In “The Idea of You,” Solène, played by Hathaway, is a 40-year-old woman who unexpectedly falls for a 24-year-old boy band singer, Hayes, portrayed by Galitzine. The story unfolds after they meet at Coachella, where Solène takes her teenage daughter.
According to Galitzine, the chemistry between him and Hathaway was immediate and almost spiritual. He described a special connection during the audition process that made him feel proud regardless of the outcome. Showalter, the director of the film, emphasized the importance of earning the first kiss between Solène and Hayes, making sure the audience feels the depth of their relationship.
Gabrielle Union, a producer on the film, was drawn to the project after reading the book on which it was based. She resonated with Solène’s struggles with public perception of her relationship, drawing parallels to her own experiences with scrutiny in her marriage to Dwayne Wade.
The film’s themes of love, age, and relationships struck a chord with the audience at SXSW, with many expressing admiration for the cast and crew’s ability to bring the story to life. The heartfelt performances and emotional depth of the characters left a lasting impact on viewers, making “The Idea of You” a standout at the festival.