In their latest collaboration, Shailene Woodley and Joseph Gordon-Levitt star in Prime Video’s new thriller Killer Heat, marking their reunion after eight years since their appearance in Snowden.
Woodley describes the film noir, which debuts on September 26, as the type of movie she’s drawn to watching these days. Woodley tells Yahoo Entertainment, “It seems like people are gravitating toward joy, fun, and adventure more than ever right now.”
Shailene Woodley and Joseph Gordon-Levitt reunite in Prime Video’s thriller Killer Heat, marking their first collaboration since Snowden eight years ago
Despite an election year, this observation feels particularly relevant. While discussions continue online about the importance of celebrity endorsements, both actors feel they have a responsibility to use their platforms appropriately.
Gordon-Levitt acknowledges the criticism by stating, “It makes sense to argue that just because someone is famous, their political opinions shouldn’t automatically carry weight.”
However, he adds, “In a democracy, everyone should have the chance to voice their thoughts. It’s not about listening because someone is well-known, but if what they say resonates with you, then that’s valuable. I do feel a certain duty to express views that make sense to me, and it’s up to the audience to decide if they agree.”
Woodley agrees with her co-star’s sentiments.
She emphasizes, “The point isn’t that people should listen because we’re actors. It’s because we’re also people who care, like anyone else in this world.”
Woodley continues, “Having a platform doesn’t mean it’s being used exploitatively. It’s just a part of life. With that comes the responsibility to share honest opinions without pressure or judgment.”
In Killer Heat, Woodley’s character seeks the help of a detective, played by Gordon-Levitt, to investigate her brother-in-law’s suspicious death.
This film follows the trend of projects like The Perfect Couple and Blink Twice, which focus on wealthy families, secrets, and power struggles. Woodley believes these narratives attracts audiences because “they’re just fun.”
“I want to watch things that don’t leave me feeling down. Right now, I’m enjoying shows that are entertaining, with a bit of a psychological edge,” Woodley shares.
Gordon-Levitt adds, “There’s a timeless appeal to a good detective story. We’ve been telling these types of tales for decades because they’re endlessly enjoyable.”
Killer Heat is set to premiere on Prime Video on September 26.
