Noah Baumbach’s films always spark human emotions because his writing creates moments in which audiences experience sadness. When directing films about divorce like The Squid and the Whale and Marriage Story, he paints the portrait that shows everyone is impacted in these situations but still deserving of empathy. Baumbach has also directed films on dynamics like Margot at the Wedding and Kicking and Screaming in which he carefully establishes that there is a level of disconnect. In his newest feature Jay Kelly, there is disconnection from life due to fame. This film takes a more lighthearted approach with joyful scenes, while still being sad.

The film’s main character is Jay Kelly, played by George Clooney. He is a high-profile celebrity who feels like his reality keeps him from experiencing the real joys in life. His agent is Ron, played by Adam Sandler. Together, they go on a trip abroad to follow Jay’s daughter. On their adventure, much of Jay’s life opens doors that lead to surreal emotions not only for Jay, but also for Ron, and his other friends. Celebrity life does not only have difficult aspects for the celebrity, but also for the people around the celebrity. The story involves a series of moving obstacles where stress and life seek common ground and happiness is a struggle to be found.

I have watched Jay Kelly twice already and both times the insights into the life of celebrities were compelling. The notion of having a life split in two, personal and non-existent, is explored. The “non-existent” part caused by being high-profileis portrayed in the performance of Clooney and Sandler. They are a duo, tour-de-force fighting for a life of sacrifice and fame, while also dealing with reality on the other side. Jay Kelly is the epitome of success, with new doors opening to heartfelt revelations about what it means to be human.

I appreciate the audacity that Baumbach brings to the film’s writing, especially during the journey through places in Europe.There are times when Jay travels on a trait which is not an ideal setting for a celebrity. Ron finds this stressful, yet at the same time, he is trying to keep Jay’s fame alive by continuing to find him gigs. Is Jay truly happy? Does Jay think about his team’s happiness? The complicated life of a celebrity is filled with frustration in Jay Kelly. The dynamic between Clooney and Sandler highlights the unpleasant underbelly of success and accomplishments.

Baumbach always tackles topics that involve more than meets the eyes. I have always felt a sense of sorrow, followed by strength after seeing a project he has directed. With Jay Kelly, the lighter side crept in more for me since there was not a harsh melancholy or a trainwreck of damage to bring on the tears. There was a more subtle sense of understanding the subject matter this time around.

Within the depths of fame and glory, the disconnect of family hit deep for Ron. Sandler’s performance shines with humanistic value. He plays a hardworking father. His wife is Lois, played by Greta Gerwig. Ron puts a lot on the line for Jay. So much, in fact, that he misses out on his kid’s life. As Jay is trying to be there for his own kid, Ron is missing his own. Jay Kelly is a competition amongst priorities. Baumbach is not afraid to display the serious consequences of life’s choices. Baumbach uses a unique approach to help viewers appreciate the many people who are important in our own lives. Even someone who is famous and has loads money still needs to find happiness andwhat brings personal fulfillment beneath the surface.

This movie is stunning achievement of cinematic glory destined to be Hollywood hit. Baumbach challenges sadness and courage. Clooney delivers one of the most monumental and touching performances of 2025. This is also one of the best films that Sandler and Clooney have made for years. Baumbach pushes the boundaries to uncover the things that bring humans down. He also shows that even tough things can be dealt with. Overall, Baumbach hits a home run delving into the subject of fame in Jay Kelly. Four out of four stars for Jay Kelly.