‘Armageddon Time’ marks the most personal film yet from writer and director James Gray.
James Gray tells a story inspired by his upbringing in Queens during the 1980s, and serves as the films writer, director, and producer. The period drama film stars Anne Hathaway, Jeremy Strong, Banks Repeta, Jaylin Webb, and Anthony Hopkins.
Armageddon Time is an incredibly personal coming-of-age story that focuses on the strength of family, the complex elements of friendship, and the generational pursuit of the American dream. The story begins when Paul Graff — portrayed by Banks Repeta, and his friend Johnny — brought to life by the incredible Jaylin Webb, are caught smoking cannabis. Paul is then sent to his older brother’s private school, which is operated by Donald Trump’s sister Maryanne. In the face of prejudice, Paul’s family tries their best to support him.
The Knockturnal got the opportunity to speak with Banks Repeta, Jaylin Webb, Andrew Polk, Marcia Haufrecht, and James Gray at the film’s New York Film Festival premiere.
“Ever since I was little, I always dreamed of being in New York,” Jaylin Webb said of exploring the film’s setting on screen. “I would have never thought that my first time in New York would be doing something that I love, which is acting. Being in New York in the 1980s, it was like I hopped in a time machine. It was just so cool.”
“If you get to know anybody good enough, you become comfortable with them,” Banks Repeta said of his friendship both on and off screen with Jaylin Webb. “And you get to be uncomfortable with them together, and yet be comfortable.”
We attended the screening as a guest of NYFF lead sponsor Campari. The iconic Italian aperitif once again served as the Official Spirits Partner of the NYFF for the fourth consecutive year. “This partnership signifies Campari’s long-standing connection to the art and film industries, and its dedication to championing creatives using cinema as the convention to break boundaries. Working with notable film luminaries, Campari has celebrated creativity, storytelling and innovation in all its forms since the brands inception in 1860,” the brand shared in a statement.
At the after-party, which was attended by Anne Hathaway, Jeremy Strong and more, guests enjoyed fabulous cocktails courtesy of Campari. The brand new red carpet cocktail was a smash.
Campari Red Carpet – NYFF60th Edition
Ingredients
- .75 Parts Campari
- .75 Parts 1757 Extra Dry Vermouth
- .75 Parts Bulldog Gin
- .75 Parts Fresh Lemon
- 1 large Strawberry
- 1 generous pinch of Salt & Granulated Sugar
Method
- Wash and destem 1 large or two small strawberries and add to a shaker tin.
- Muddle or crush the strawberries with a pinch of salt and a pinch of granulated sugar.
- Add Campari, 1757 Extra Dry Vermouth, Bulldog Gin, and Fresh lemon juice to the tin.
- Add plenty of ice and shake until frosty.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail coupe and garnish with a strawberry slice
Glassware: Coupe, Contemporary Nick & Nora, or Skinny Martini
Garnish: Film Reel Orange Peel
See Armageddon Time only in theaters October 28.