‘The Invite’ Screenwriters Rashida Jones and Will McCormack on Fighting for Marriage, Esther Perel’s Advice and Their Take on ‘Tom and Jerry’

Olivia Wilde’s couples dramedy, “The Invite,” premiered at Sundance this January, featuring a cast including Penélope Cruz, Ed Norton, and Seth Rogen. The film explores marital dynamics and was noted for reviving a quiet Sundance festival. Screenwriters Rashida Jones and Will McCormack discussed their involvement with the project, focusing on themes of marriage and relationships. They also shared insights from relationship therapist Esther Perel, whose advice influenced their approach to storytelling. The conversation touched upon their creative process and how they navigate complex emotional narratives within their screenplays. Jones and McCormack also offered their perspective on the classic cartoon “Tom and Jerry,” drawing parallels to their own work in exploring character dynamics. Their discussion highlighted the importance of authentic representation in depicting relationships and the challenges of crafting compelling narratives around them. The interview provided a behind-the-scenes look at the development of “The Invite” and the screenwriters' broader views on storytelling and human connection.