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Brad Pitt's Ambitious Plan to Honor Jeff Buckley Through Film
2025-01-25

In an intriguing twist of events, Hollywood icon Brad Pitt once considered starring in a biographical film about the late musician Jeff Buckley. The idea emerged when Pitt extended an invitation to Buckley’s mother, Mary Guibert, to attend his wedding to Jennifer Aniston in 2000. Guibert, moved by Pitt's genuine interest and respect for her son's legacy, granted him permission to explore the project. However, she ultimately decided to pursue a documentary instead, which received Pitt's unwavering support. This decision led to the creation of It's Never Over, Jeff Buckley, a film that aims to honor the life and music of this extraordinary artist.

Pitt's involvement with the project began when he reached out to Guibert, expressing his admiration for Jeff Buckley. Despite initial hesitation, Guibert was impressed by Pitt's dedication. “When someone like Brad Pitt shows interest, you can’t help but listen,” she remarked. The actor proposed transforming himself into Buckley through makeup and voice mimicry, but Guibert had reservations about the feasibility of such an approach. Instead, she opted for a more authentic portrayal through a documentary, believing it would better capture her son’s essence.

Over the years, Pitt remained supportive of Guibert’s efforts. He played a crucial role in preserving Buckley’s personal items and ensuring they were digitized for future generations. His involvement deepened as he became one of the producers of the documentary. Director Amy Berg, known for her work on West of Memphis, joined forces with Guibert to bring this vision to life. Berg shared Guibert’s belief that only a documentary could truly honor Buckley’s unique artistry and complex personality.

The documentary delves into various aspects of Buckley’s life, including the tragic circumstances surrounding his death. Berg clarified that rumors suggesting an overdose were unfounded; Buckley drowned in a river in Memphis. The film also highlights Buckley’s enduring influence on contemporary culture, particularly his growing presence on platforms like TikTok. “Jeff Buckley has found new audiences across different generations,” Berg noted. “His music continues to resonate deeply with people today.”

The premiere of It's Never Over, Jeff Buckley at the Sundance Film Festival marked a significant milestone in honoring the musician’s legacy. Through Pitt’s early involvement and subsequent support, along with the collaborative efforts of Guibert and Berg, the film stands as a testament to Buckley’s timeless impact on music and culture. It offers a poignant tribute to an artist whose life was cut short but whose spirit lives on through his unforgettable music.

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