The Fablemans Is Steven Spielberg’s Love Letter to Cinema

Steven Spielberg’s new film dares you to capture every moment. The Fablemans is his next magnum opus, starring Oscar-nominated Michelle Williams, Seth Rogen, and Paul Dano.

“Movies are dreams that you never forget,” declares actress Michelle Williams, who embodies the role of Sammy’s mother, Mitzi. In the trailer, she sits next to Sammy, staring at a small film screen in awe. Her son looks at her expectantly, waiting for a response, but she is enchanted by what she sees, proud of her son’s work.

Steven Spielberg is known for his unique filmography which has changed the course of cinema. This includes Jaws, Jurassic Park, Schindler’s List, Back to the Future, and many more. He had even received success for his remake of the film musical, West Side Story (2021), which has pleasantly surprised critics. 

Yet again, he gives audiences an experience of a lifetime in his new semi-biographical film, The Fablemans.

With #TheFabelmans we get to see one of the greatest filmmakers of all time craft his own origin story, a beautiful, touching, and powerful look at the importance of cinema. It’s like watching the power of the movies in all its forms. Another Spielberg masterpiece.

— Morbi-Ross Bonaime (@rbonaime) September 11, 2022

The plot is inspired by Spielberg’s life growing up in Arizona’s post-World War II era. The movie explores Sammy Fabelman’s childhood and adulthood. He becomes infatuated with cinema after his parents take him to see The Greatest Show on Earth, inspiring him to create films. Unfortunately, Fableman would discover a secret that would tear his family apart. Despite this, he uses the art of filmmaking to embark on a journey of self-discovery.

Movies are dreams that you never forget 🎥#TheFabelmans directed by Steven Spielberg.
Starring Michelle Williams, Paul Dano, Seth Rogen and Gabriel LaBelle.
In theaters everywhere Thanksgiving. pic.twitter.com/OkFlSCp2yl

— The Fabelmans (@thefabelmans) September 11, 2022

Gabriel LaBelle (The Predator) stars as 16-year-old Sammy Fabelman alongside Michelle Williams (Manchester by the Sea) as his artistic mother. To complete the family tree, Paul Dano (The Batman) will act as Sammy’s successful scientific father, Burt. Seth Rogen, who acted in American Pickle, will embody the role of Bennie Loewy, Burt’s close friend. 

The Fablemans premiered on September 10 at the Toronto International Film Festival. Upon its premiere at TIFF, the motion picture won the People’s Choice Award for Best Film. When Spielberg was asked why he revealed the film at the TIFF event, he stated, “We just thought because this film was so personal, we should get people who just love movies to see it for the first time.”

“We just thought because this film was so personal, we should get people who just love movies to see it for the first time.” 🎬

Steven Spielberg on why he chose to bring the World Premiere of THE FABELMANS to #TIFF22. pic.twitter.com/pWwiKFrl0f

— TIFF (@TIFF_NET) September 11, 2022

Upon watching The Fablemans, critics praised Michelle Williams’ exceptional performance. According to a review on Screenrant, “Michelle Williams gives a standout performance, depicting Mitzi as a complicated woman who aches to be seen.” The reviewer exemplifies that “She isn’t portrayed as selfish or villainous for her feelings or actions,” and “Williams’ effective performance allows the audience to empathize with her.” The writer then describes the film as filled with touching and vulnerable moments, balancing comedy with heartfelt scenes.

 Despite being the front-runner for Best Supporting Actress, Michelle Williams surprises award pundits by announcing she will campaign as a Lead actress for the Oscars. But this isn’t the first time she’s been recognized by the Academy.

Williams was nominated for her supporting roles in Brokeback Mountain (2005) and Manchester by the Sea (2016). She also received lead nominations for Blue Valentine (2010) and My Week with Marilyn (2011). Although she hasn’t won any accolades yet, there is a chance her work in The Fablemans will be highly revered. 

Steven Spielberg’s #TheFabelmans is a wonderful & heartbreaking coming-of-age story about a kid falling in love w/ moviemaking as his parents are falling out of love w/ each other. Once the film grabs you, it absolutely does not let go. Another Spielberg classic. Loved it #TIFF22 pic.twitter.com/1mqqcwu5Cb

— Erik Davis (@ErikDavis) September 11, 2022

The Fablemans prove that Steven Spielberg continues to deliver masterful works of cinema. The film will remind fans of the significance of filmmaking, and how magical it is when witnessed for the first time. 

The movie is expected to be released in select theaters on November 1 and everywhere on Thanksgiving. Fans can watch Steven Spielberg’s trailer for his cinematic memoir, The Fablemans, down below.