Misty Green: A24’s New Drama Sparks Oscar Buzz for Eleazar

Key points

• Misty Green, directed by Chris Rock, premiered at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival on September 12 and is set for a wide theatrical release on October 9.
• The film stars Rosalind Eleazar as Misty, a former Emmy-winning actress struggling with addiction, self-sabotage, and the decline of her career in a changing Hollywood.
• The cast includes Adam Driver, Anna Kendrick, Daniel Kaluuya, Topher Grace, and Chris Rock himself, who plays a director connected to the protagonist’s past.
• Critics describe the film as a 'brutally honest' and 'savagely authentic' portrait of the entertainment industry, with many calling it the best movie about Hollywood in years.
• Rosalind Eleazar’s performance is widely regarded as a potential Best Actress contender for the upcoming Academy Awards.

Background

Misty Green marks Chris Rock’s first feature film since 2014’s Top Five. The story, which draws on Rock’s own experiences in the entertainment industry, centers on a Black actress navigating the ruthless, algorithm-driven machine of modern Hollywood. The film was produced by A24 and Macro Film Studios.

How outlets are covering it

Critics are largely in agreement on the film’s quality, but their emphases differ. Variety’s Owen Gleiberman calls it 'the best movie about Hollywood in years,' praising its authenticity and Rock’s skill as a filmmaker. Vulture’s Alison Willmore notes that while the film is a showcase for Eleazar, it is 'not the movie it thinks it is,' suggesting a disconnect between its satirical intent and its execution. Deadline’s Pete Hammond finds the film 'uneven' but 'sizzling,' highlighting Eleazar’s performance as the standout element. USA Today emphasizes the 'risqué' nature of the role and Eleazar’s willingness to take on the challenging part.

Why it matters

Misty Green is significant as a major return for Chris Rock and a potential Oscar contender for Rosalind Eleazar. Its critical acclaim at a major festival like TIFF suggests it will be a key player in the upcoming awards season, particularly in the Best Actress and Best Picture categories. The film’s unflinching look at the industry’s treatment of Black actresses adds to the ongoing conversation about representation and authenticity in Hollywood.

What to watch

Misty Green is scheduled for a wide theatrical release in the United States on October 9. The film’s performance at the box office and its reception from the broader public will be key indicators of its potential success at the Academy Awards. Rosalind Eleazar’s performance is expected to be a major factor in the Best Actress race.