Renee Zellweger's Directorial Debut: Animated Short 'They'

**Los Angeles, Aug 19 (PTI)** – Acclaimed actor Renee Zellweger has ventured into the realm of directing with her inaugural short film, "They". The seven-minute animated piece, crafted with intricate hand-drawn techniques, made its debut at the prestigious Edinburgh International Film Festival. In a revealing discussion with The Hollywood Reporter, Zellweger, renowned for her role as Bridget Jones, delved into the inspiration behind her new project. "The decline of social discourse, where everyone seems to harbor opinions about each other, is disheartening. Genuine conversation appears to have vanished," the 56-year-old reflected, pointing to the pervasive toxicity on social platforms. The film, as described by Zellweger, has been a cherished endeavor birthed during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. "When people mention a 'passion project,' this is genuinely rooted in that sentiment. It's about the love for this art form and its potential to spark dialogue without causing offense," she remarked. Zellweger further illuminated the essence of the film’s succinct title, "They". "It's that trite expression used to close a conversation or validate a viewpoint: 'You know how they are,' 'You know what they say,' 'You know what they do.' The core message emphasizes that we're all 'they'," she elaborated. Known for her impressive filmography, Zellweger has delivered unforgettable performances in numerous hits, including "Bridget Jones's Diary," "Jerry Maguire," and her Oscar-winning portrayal of Judy Garland in the film "Judy". While discussing future directorial aspirations, Zellweger expressed a balanced mix of optimism and caution. "There are always ideas brewing. It's just a matter of timing, and things aligning," she commented. "They" had its world premiere at the Edinburgh International Film Festival on August 16.