As Natalie Portman builds buzz for her latest turn in the dark Darren Aronofsky drama Black Swan, (check out Jordan’s review here) she and writing partner Laura Moses have been pitching their raunchy comedy, BYO, to studios.
According to 24 Frames, BYO (a.k.a Bring Your Own) “concerns two very different twentysomething women who, after finding themselves unlucky in love, decide to throw a party to which each female attendee brings an eligible bachelor. The executives who’ve read the script describe it as a female-themed ‘Superbad.'”
Portman is purported to be one of the leads as well as a producer on the project, while Anne Hathaway has shown an interest in taking on the other lead role. While BYO is currently struggling to find studio financing, it may have better luck with indie producers, as Hollywood doesn’t seem to trust raunchy female humor. (Believe it or not, we ladies liked Superbad too. It’s partially why Emma Stone’s career took off!)
While some are confused by Portman’s proposed ribald turn, I not only get it but am looking forward to it. Portman’s never been afraid to challenge people’s expectations of her; she’s taken on a number of risky roles and a variety of taboos. Most importantly, despite a long list of dramas on her filmography, she doesn’t seem to take herself too seriously. Add this to her sharp wit, and I think it could equal a smart, raunchy, female-led comedy.
Can she handle it? I offer you Exhibit A:
Are you game for BYO?