Curtain Call (2000 film)

Curtain Call is a 2000 American comedy film directed by Peter Bogdanovich and starring James Spader, Kathleen Turner, and Polly Shannon. The film follows the chaotic and disastrous production of a Broadway play, "The Cat and the Canary," that is plagued by mishaps and the antics of its eccentric cast and crew.

The plot centers around Steven Gale (James Spader), a successful Hollywood screenwriter who is tapped to revive the play on Broadway. He soon discovers that his ex-wife, Maxine Faulk (Kathleen Turner), a notoriously difficult actress, has been cast as the lead. As rehearsals progress, the production descends into a series of comedic misfortunes, including cast injuries, set malfunctions, and interpersonal conflicts. The play's producer, played by Buck Henry, struggles to keep the production afloat despite the mounting challenges.

The film is a satire of the theater world, lampooning the egos, insecurities, and eccentricities of actors, directors, and producers. It features a number of supporting performances from notable actors such as Michael McKean and Marcia Gay Harden. While Curtain Call received mixed reviews upon its release, it is noted for its ensemble cast and Bogdanovich's direction, evoking the style of classic Hollywood comedies.