Jacqueline Murphy’s “The Admired:” A Dramatic Journey Through Time and Vaulting Ambition 

The Event

The fascinating short film “The Admired,” a highly lauded feature created, co-written, directed, produced, and performed by Jacqueline Murphy, was screened on August 24, 2024 at the Tarzana International Film Festival at the Sherman Oaks Galleria. After the screening, everyone in attendance was invited to the nearby P.F. Chang’s restaurant for some fabulous fare, graciously provided by Murphy and her husband Fred Stahl, who is a powerhouse in his own right in the field of real estate.

The Movie:

Introduction and Plot Summary

“The Admired” is a Faustian tale, a captivating tour de force directorial debut for Murphy, who co-wrote the script with Lynne Newton and Leonard Andronov. The film delves into the dreams and struggles of an aspiring actress named Olivia Spenser, wonderfully played by Murphy. The production, set against the backdrop of 1940’s Hollywood, combines elements of fantasy and drama, and a touch of the supernatural, to create a unique cinematic experience.

The story follows Spenser, a talented yet frustrated actress who dreams of the glamorous life of a 1940’s Hollywood movie star. After another failed audition, Olivia’s desperation leads her to a mysterious figure named Mr. Z, a handsome sorcerer who is loosely implied to be Mephistopheles himself.  Mr. Z, or Lucifer, offers her a chance to live her dream through a magical tarot card reading. Olivia’s journey takes her back in time to The Cicada Club, the hottest jazz nightclub in old Hollywood, where she begins to experience the life she always wanted.

However, Olivia soon realizes that the world of Old Hollywood is not as glamorous as she assumed; indeed, she faces danger, fear, and heartbreak as she navigates the treacherous movie studio system. The film explores themes of vaulting ambition and desire, as they come head to head with the harsh realities of the entertainment industry.

Characters and Performances

Jacqueline Murphy stars as Olivia Spencer, delivering a powerful performance that captures both the character’s vulnerability and determination. Leon Winters plays Mr. Z, the enigmatic sorcerer whose charm and magical abilities drive the plot forward. The supporting cast, including Lynne Newton, Quinn Hightower, and Tom Hallick as Romeo Valentine, add depth and intrigue to the story.

Visual and Cinematic Elements

“The Admired” is visually stunning, with meticulous attention to detail in recreating the 1940s Hollywood setting. The costumes Murphy wore were authentic and beautiful creations from the famous designer Sue Wong, whose gowns are reminiscent of the classic Hollywood era.

These clothing designs, coupled with the cinematography and set pieces, transported viewers to that bygone period, immersing them in the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood. The skillful use of lighting and color further enhanced the film’s magical and dreamlike quality, making it a feast for the eyes.

Themes and Messages

At its core, “The Admired” is a cautionary tale vividly portraying what dangers envelop the path dictated by unchecked ambition and the allure of fame. Olivia’s journey serves as a reminder that dreams can come true, but at a high cost, and the reality behind the facade of glamour can be brutal and unforgiving. The film also touches on themes of identity and self-worth, and affirms the importance of staying true to oneself.

Conclusion

“The Admired” is a powerful short film that offers a poignant and thought-provoking look at the world of overwhelming ambition and shows the unintended consequences of the realization of

one’s thought-to-be fondest dreams. 

Murphy’s direction and acting, combined with the skilled performances of a talented cast and stunning visual presentations, make this film a must-watch for anyone interested in the complications of driving personal ambition and the complexities of the barbarous entertainment industry. Whether you’re a fan of classic Hollywood or simply enjoy a well-told story, “The Admired” is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Biography

Born in New York, Jacqueline Murphy grew up on Long Island and is the oldest of six children. Her mother was an artist and could play any song on the piano and accordion just by hearing it. Jacqueline herself plays piano. She is also an avid painter and studied Art and Art History at Hunter College.

Murphy actually began her vocational life as a Registered Nurse, then caught the acting bug and has ever since pursued a thespian lifestyle. After attending the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and studying with the renowned acting coach Stella Adler, Murphy was “discovered” and commenced playing (appropriately) Nurse Thomas on no less than ABC’s legendary “All My Children,” which became a recurring role for her. Jacqueline continued to make contributions to the dramatic arts with roles in such iconic productions as Law & Order, Goodfellas, Radio Days, Hannah and Her Sisters, Regarding Henry, and Reversal of Fortune. 

Ever devoted to her craft, Murphy is inspired by the great directors she has worked with who do it all: write, direct, produce, and perform. Indeed, she did do all that herself in “The Admired,” and most admirably so! “The Admired” has garnered many accolades, including fifty festival awards, among them 12 for Best Short Film, 7 for Best Lead Actress (Jacqueline Murphy), 4 for Best Original Screenplay, and 2 for Best Directing. The film is also a multi-award-winning Web Series and has evolved into the TV series Sorceress of Hollywood.

Besides writing episodes for the TV series, Ms. Murphy is currently writing a feature called Yellowbird and the Titan. In addition, she has recently launched her own show called Entertainment with Jacqueline Murphy, which features celebrity interviews, travel adventures, art, health tips, and trending news. 

Clearly, Jacqueline Murphy is an indomitable force on the dramatic scene!