Olivia Wilde Reflects on the ‘Liberation’ of Critical Backlash

Olivia Wilde has revealed that she felt “liberated” after her 2022 film Don’t Worry Darling was trashed by critics, noting that the experience served as a vital reminder of how fickle the entertainment industry can be. The film, which marked her second feature as a director following the success of Booksmart, faced a tumultuous path to release.

Starring Florence Pugh, Chris Pine, and Harry Styles, the production was frequently overshadowed by tabloid speculation regarding cast dynamics and the director’s personal life. When it finally reached theaters, the film struggled to replicate the critical acclaim of her debut, eventually settling at a 38 per cent rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Speaking to Variety about her upcoming third feature, A24’s The Invite, Wilde reflected on the harsh reception of her previous work. She explained that while she still experiences nerves, the low ratings for Don’t Worry Darling helped her detach from the pressure of public opinion.

“I reached a level of un-self-consciousness that only comes from recognising that the only way to achieve anything worthwhile is to throw yourself into it completely. The risk is the thing. It is the reward.”

Wilde emphasized the value of early career challenges, suggesting that they foster more realistic expectations. “Booksmart was a blessing, but it also creates a certain expectation for yourself when it comes to connecting with the audience, and you forget how subjective it all is,” she noted. “My next movie has a 38 on Rotten Tomatoes, and I’ve been reflecting on how healthy it is to be reminded of how fickle it all is. Once you’ve survived that, there’s liberation.”

The director also addressed ongoing rumors regarding friction on set, maintaining that there was never a “screaming match” during production. As she looks toward the July 3 release of The Invite—which features a cast including Penelope Cruz, Seth Rogan, and Edward Norton—Wilde appears focused on the creative process rather than the noise that often surrounds high-profile releases.