Zoey Deutch Stars in Linklater’s French New Wave Netflix Film After 11-Year Wait

The dream casting is finally real. Zoey Deutch headlines Richard Linklater’s new film, “Nouvelle Vague,” as icon Jean Seberg. The Netflix movie debuts on November 14. It chronicles the making of the seminal French New Wave classic, “Breathless.”

This collaboration was over a decade in the making. Linklater first mentioned the idea to Deutch when she was just 19. She was filming a small role in his movie “Everybody Wants Some” at the time.

A Full-Circle Moment for Actress and Director

Deutch recently recalled her early nerves. She was convinced her part would be cut from that first film. Linklater’s offhand comment about Seberg became a lifeline. It signaled his belief in her talent.

The actress immersed herself completely for “Nouvelle Vague.” She did not speak French when cast. She began intensive language lessons long before production was finalized. She also cut her hair into Seberg’s famous pixie crop.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Linklater even sent a cautious email. He suggested she might want to wait before cutting her hair. Financing was not fully secured yet. Deutch went for it anyway, fully committing to the transformation.

Embracing the Chaos of Independent Filmmaking

The shoot in Paris was pure indie spirit. There were no trailers or traditional dressing rooms. The crew often stole shots on city streets, capturing a vérité feel. This chaotic style felt familiar to Deutch.

She connected it to her own experiences in low-budget filmmaking. The authentic process mirrored the rebellious energy of the original French New Wave. This approach helped her embody Seberg’s pivotal moment in cinema history.

The film is a black-and-white tribute to that era. It explores the creative explosion around Jean-Luc Godard’s groundbreaking work. For Deutch, it marks a significant evolution in her career and her artistic partnership with Linklater.

This long-awaited project highlights Zoey Deutch’s dedication to her craft. The Richard Linklater Netflix film offers a unique look behind a cinematic revolution. It brings a forgotten story of icon Jean Seberg to a global audience.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the new Richard Linklater film about?

It is titled “Nouvelle Vague.” The film dramatizes the making of Jean-Luc Godard’s 1960 classic “Breathless.” It focuses on actress Jean Seberg’s experience during that pivotal production.

When does the Netflix movie release?

“Nouvelle Vague” will be available to stream on Netflix starting November 14. It premiered earlier this year at the Cannes Film Festival.

Did Zoey Deutch have to learn French for the role?

Yes, she did not speak French before being cast. She began extensive language lessons well in advance of filming. The entire movie is performed in French.

Is the film shot in black and white?

Yes, Linklater chose to film in black and white. This stylistic choice pays direct homage to the visual style of the original French New Wave films from the early 1960s.

Who does Zoey Deutch play in the movie?

She portrays American actress Jean Seberg. Seberg became an overnight icon for her role in “Breathless.” Her signature pixie cut was widely emulated at the time.