The Evolution of Film Press Tours: From Awkward Interviews to Flirty Vibes and Fashion Statements
In the 1999 rom-com “Notting Hill,” Hugh Grant’s character finds himself in a hilarious mix-up at a press junket, pretending to be a reporter from Horse & Hound to interview Julia Roberts’ megawatt star character. This scene may have been a quaint introduction to the world of film publicity back then, but fast forward to today, and press tours have taken on a life of their own.
From the Animosity Tour to the Flirty Tour and the Fashion Tour, celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Dakota Johnson, and Zendaya are making waves with their press tour antics. The Animosity Tour sees co-stars like Jennifer Lopez and Sterling K. Brown engaging in playful banter that leaves fans speculating about their relationship off-screen. Meanwhile, the Flirty Tour sees actors like Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney leaning into dating rumors to sell their romantic comedy.
On the Fashion Tour, stars like Margot Robbie and Zendaya are turning press tours into a runway show, with meticulously curated looks that reflect the themes of their films. Margot Robbie’s Barbie-inspired outfits and Zendaya’s futuristic ensembles have become as much a part of the movie promotion as the films themselves.
And then there’s the Apathy Tour, where actors like Dakota Johnson and Lady Gaga navigate press tours for films they may not be fully enthusiastic about. Dakota Johnson’s deadpan comments about her film “Madame Web” and Lady Gaga’s repeated praise for Bradley Cooper during “A Star Is Born” promotions add a touch of humor and honesty to the often repetitive nature of press tours.
Whether it’s playful banter, flirtatious vibes, bold fashion statements, or candid remarks, today’s press tours have become just as entertaining as the movies themselves. As celebrities navigate the world of film publicity, they continue to surprise and delight fans with their unique approaches to promoting their work.