On Tuesday evening, a special screening of the iconic film Sophie's Choice was held at New York's Museum of Modern Art, presented by Lanvin, in celebration of its 40th anniversary. The event was hosted by renowned actors Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, and Peter MacNicol, who all played pivotal roles in this seminal work directed by Alan J. Pakula.
Streep, Kline, and MacNicol took the stage to introduce the movie, reflecting on their experiences during the making of Sophie's Choice. Streep poignantly mentioned that they were among the few remaining individuals who were part of this extraordinary film. She acknowledged the presence of her loyal hair and makeup artist, Jo Roy Helland, and the talented wardrobe specialist, Alba Schipani. However, she couldn't help but acknowledge the absence of the film's visionary contributors: the great writer William Styron, the late Alan Pakula, and the master of light, Nestor Almendros, the cinematographer.
MacNicol shared a fascinating anecdote about Almendros, revealing that he was legally blind and wore eyeglasses as thick as Coke bottles. MacNicol recalled a time when they went to a movie theater, and Almendros was momentarily frozen in the aisle, unable to see due to his visual impairment. MacNicol had to guide him to his seat. Despite his struggle with vision, it was evident through Almendros' work in Sophie's Choice that he possessed an exceptional eye for beauty.
Kevin Kline, who made his film debut in Sophie's Choice after gaining fame on stage, added to the discussion about Pakula's impact. He expressed that Pakula had spoiled him for life, as he was cast in his first film by the talented director. Kline credited the experience of filming Sophie's Choice as the most joyous and creative endeavor of his entire career. He attributed this to the remarkable collaboration between himself, Streep, MacNicol, and Pakula, where they formed an unbreakable bond and supported each other in every way possible.
The event was attended by a star-studded guest list, with luminaries such as Cate Blanchett, Ethan Hawke, Uma Thurman, Gina Gershon, Claire Danes, Steven Soderbergh, Holland Taylor, Rupert Friend, Aimee Mullins, Matthew Modine, Sarita Choudhury, and Pat Cleveland in attendance. Streep's daughter, Louisa Jacobson, and Phoebe Cates were also present, showing support for their respective family members. Cates attended the screening along with her children Greta Kline, widely known as Frankie Cosmos, and filmmaker son Owen Kline, who was accompanied by the talented singer and film director Charlotte Ercoli Coe.
Alongside commemorating the 40th anniversary of Sophie's Choice, this grand occasion also marked the official return of Alan Pepe Communications' screening series, which celebrates the work of prominent filmmakers. After the film viewing, the guests moved to the exquisite grand salon at the Baccarat Hotel, where they were greeted with champagne and treated to a sumptuous feast of seafood delicacies, including sushi, fresh oysters, and shrimp cocktails. Additionally, an array of hors d'oeuvres was served, ensuring every guest had a delightful culinary experience. To extend their appreciation, Lanvin provided attendees with a special goodie bag as a token of their gratitude.
The evening was truly a testament to the enduring legacy of Sophie's Choice and the remarkable talent and collaboration that brought this cinematic masterpiece to life. The stars, the filmmakers, and the guests present all paid homage to the film's unforgettable impact on cinema history, while celebrating the skill and dedication of everyone involved in its creation.
