This Sunday, the world will turn its eyes to Super Bowl LVIII, not just for the thrilling game but also for the highly anticipated commercials that take over the broadcast. This year, one notable name who will grace the airwaves is filmmaker Greta Gerwig. Known for her vibrant storytelling and compelling narratives, Gerwig finds herself in an unexpected place with a gig that most people would never dream of pursuing – a Super Bowl advertisement. “I didn’t have a Super Bowl ad on my bingo card,” she humorously expressed during a recent phone interview. Gerwig’s enthusiastic tone reflects a genuine surprise and delight in being called upon by Uber Eats for this opportunity.
Currently residing in London, Gerwig faces unique challenges as she prepares to watch America’s iconic sporting event across the pond. With small children, she is cognizant of the late-night viewing experience, navigating the time zone difference while yearning to connect with her family in the U.S., who will be tuned in to watch her commercial. Despite her fame, she desires to capture the spontaneous reactions of her loved ones as they witness her creative endeavor unfold in front of their eyes. This blend of personal insight and professional curiosity paints a vivid picture of Gerwig’s life as a filmmaker straddling two worlds.
Traditionally, the Super Bowl serves as a festival of communal celebration filled with laughter, delicious food, and, of course, advertisements that often eclipse the game itself. Gerwig describes her participation in the event surrounded by culinary delights and gatherings, highlighting how this occasion offers an ideal moment to bond with friends and family. “It’s a time of year that it just sounds so lovely to gather together in a house,” she remarks. In her experience, the clever and creative commercials are as much a part of the tradition as the game, adding an element of anticipation and joy.
Ordering takeout can be as complicated as orchestrating a group project, especially when preferences vary widely among friends. Gerwig shares insights into her own dining habits that showcase her commitment to inclusivity. With a close-knit group of friends containing an array of dietary restrictions, she likens ordering for them to creating a Venn diagram of culinary choices, ensuring that everyone is catered to. This meticulous planning reflects her understanding of food as a means of connection, highlighting how meals can bring people together despite differences.
Discussing her favorite restaurants, Gerwig points towards nostalgic choices that resonate with comfort. From the sushi experience of Sugarfish to the bagels from Bagel Baz, she expresses her fondness for meals that evoke memories and a sense of home, particularly during her time in London. Five Guys serves as a beacon of familiarity and joy, particularly when living far from her American roots. These preferences underline how food can transcend geographical boundaries and tap into a deeper emotional resonance.
When it comes to fueling her creativity, Gerwig’s preferences might seem quirky yet relatable. She reminisces about the joy she finds in indulging in classic snacks like Diet Dr. Pepper and Cheetos, noting how these treats link her to her younger self. This connection to nostalgia can, surprisingly, foster creativity, creating a delicious atmosphere in which innovative ideas might flourish. Her straightforward take on snacking preferences adds an honest touch that many can connect with, showcasing the beauty of simple pleasures in the creative process.
The significance of sharing meals extends beyond merely satisfying hunger; these moments facilitate genuine human connection. For Gerwig, shared dining experiences during film production are essential. She emphasizes how meals offer a rhythm of creativity amid the chaotic atmosphere of filming. In that space, renowned individuals gather, melding their talents and insights over communal dining experiences. The magic of making movies, she conveys, lies in sharing these moments together, with meals acting as a backdrop for collaboration and connection.
In her storytelling journey, Gerwig recalls unforgettable meals shared in the pre-production phase of her film “Barbie.” Elaborating on the significance of a traditional British Sunday roast, she describes how these communal meals foster camaraderie and create memorable experiences. The festive nature of gathering—cooking, sharing, and enjoying together—serves not only as nourishment but as a vital part of the filmmaking process. Marking these bonding moments as cherished memories, Gerwig reinforces the belief that a shared meal is one of the fundamental ways to celebrate creativity and storytelling in the world of cinema.
Greta Gerwig exemplifies the interconnectedness of creativity, family, and culinary joy, showcasing how these elements manifest in both her professional and personal life. Through her experiences, she inspires a deeper appreciation for shared moments, revealing how they shape us as artists and individuals.