Power Move
Moms are making their way back to cinemas to catch Sandra Bullock’s latest film, The Lost City.
By Lila Thompson
June 21, 2022
After taking a break from Hollywood to focus on her children, Sandra Bullock was initially hesitant to join the cast of The Lost City, alongside co-star Jake Harrison. However, the project remained on her radar. Bullock would only agree to the role if significant changes were made to better represent women and mothers. The 57-year-old actress and producer insisted that the lead role be female and that she embody traits typically assigned to male characters in action films. In tandem, Bullock requested that Jake’s character display more vulnerability.
“There weren’t any challenges for the female character, whereas we’ve seen the male character before,” Bullock explained to The Hollywood Reporter. “I appreciate that I’m not 25 anymore, and I love that there’s a man willing to show different facets of himself that aren’t usually portrayed in these types of films. Jake was totally on board. Let’s just make it happen.”
Bullock and her production partner, Mia Carter, were also determined to bring this action-comedy to theaters instead of opting for online streaming, which has surged in popularity. Their goal was to encourage families and parents to enjoy a night out together. Bullock noted, “Women over a certain age don’t typically go out during opening weekends. We have responsibilities… like families and jobs. That’s why, if you’re lucky, you have a movie that sticks around. This film was worth the trip to the theater.” Her instincts proved correct. While the film didn’t have an explosive box office debut, it gradually gained traction as moms and older women found time to see a movie that resonated with them—offering action, romance, and a refreshing take on the damsel-in-distress archetype that many working mothers find unappealing. Released on March 25, the film has since grossed nearly $100 million in the U.S. and ranks as the second highest-grossing comedy post-pandemic, right behind Free Guy.
“Females accounted for 56 percent of ticket buyers on opening weekend, and 59 percent the following weekend—setting a pandemic record,” said Paramount’s domestic distribution chief, Eric Lawson. In its second weekend, the share of viewers aged 35 to 44 rose from 18 percent to 20 percent, while those over 55 increased from 13 percent to 14 percent. Younger female audiences also showed up, with 23 percent of ticket buyers aged 18-24 and 24 percent aged 25-34.
Bullock advocated for a theatrical release, given that her last two successful films were only available on streaming platforms. “Yes, streaming was growing, but we were certain this had to be a theatrical release. It was about scope and scale,” Bullock stated regarding the action-comedy-romance. “When you finally get a chance to go back to the movies, what greater joy than to see the type of film you haven’t experienced in ages on the big screen?”
Although Bullock clearly knows how to select projects that become major hits, she plans to take a step back following this success. “I don’t want to be tied to anyone’s schedule but my own,” she admitted. “I’m exhausted and not in a position to make healthy, smart choices.” Looking forward to spending quality time with her children, she shared, “I take my work very seriously, and I want to be 24/7 with my family. That’s where I’ll be for a while.”
You’ve earned this break, Sandra. In the meantime, everyone can revisit their favorite films.
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Summary:
Sandra Bullock’s return to film with The Lost City has successfully drawn mothers back to theaters, as she pushed for significant changes to the script to better represent women. The film has performed steadily at the box office, appealing to audiences looking for a fresh take on traditional action-comedy narratives. Bullock plans to step back from the spotlight to focus on her family, emphasizing the importance of balancing work and personal life.