The Rewatchables ‘Heaven Can Wait’ With Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Van Lathan
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May 27, 2025 The hosts dive into the whimsical themes and nostalgic vibes of the 1978 film, exploring its cultural impact and connections to the 1970s. They analyze the evolution of iconic actors like Warren Beatty, discussing their influence on cinema. In a humorous twist, they ponder the dynamics of football and film, comparing real players to characters. Dark humor mingles with heartfelt moments as they reflect on moral dilemmas and the absurdities of celebrity culture, weaving a lively tapestry of memories and critiques.
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Warren Beatty's Star Power
- Warren Beatty put much thought into his stardom, focusing on charismatic minimalism and star power over complex acting.
- His ability to convincingly play the lead football quarterback, everyman, and playboy made his role in Heaven Can Wait believable and magnetic.
Beatty vs Redford Cinema Styles
- Warren Beatty and Robert Redford represented two distinct types of movie stars in the 70s, one balancing entertainment with important films, the other driven by major issue movies.
- Beatty's movies were fun and star-driven, while Redford used film as a platform for social issues.
Beatty Lacks Late Career Iconic Film
- Warren Beatty's critical stature faded compared to peers because his films feel distinctly 60s-70s and he lacked a defining late-career comeback.
- He never had a movie like Heat or Scent of a Woman in the 90s to reignite his star power.