
ALL PHOTOS © Jonathan Scott Shensa Photography
Few contemporary Hollywood figures have reinvented themselves as successfully as Olivia Wilde. Over the past two decades, Wilde has evolved from a charismatic television and film actress into one of the industry’s most exciting directors, balancing thoughtful storytelling with sharp performances in front of the camera. Her latest achievement brings her back into the spotlight not only as a filmmaker but also as an actress. Her latest film is her 3rd time directing a feature. “The Invite”A comedy starring Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz, and Edward Norton. The film opened the 2026 San Francisco International Film Festival last Spring.
Early Career: A Star on the Rise
Olivia Wilde first captured audiences’ attention with memorable television appearances before earning widespread recognition as Dr. Remy “Thirteen” Hadley on the hit medical drama House. Her performance showcased an intelligence and emotional depth that would become hallmarks of her career.
Hollywood soon took notice, leading to roles in films such as Tron: Legacy, Cowboys & Aliens, Rush, Her, and Meadowland. Whether appearing in science fiction, action, comedy, or independent dramas, Wilde consistently demonstrated remarkable versatility while working alongside some of the industry’s biggest filmmakers and actors.
The first time I photographed Olivia was not on a red carpet but in the fan section at the LA premiere of Drew Barrymore’s feature directorial film Whip It. The second time was once again in the fan section of Tron: Legacy. the actress was always friendly and took the time to sign as many autographs for fans.


A Remarkable Directorial Debut: Booksmart
In 2019, Wilde stepped behind the camera for her feature directorial debut, Booksmart, a coming-of-age comedy that quickly became one of the year’s most celebrated films. The screenplay was smart and funny. The script reminded me of a female “Dazed and Confused”.
Rather than relying on familiar teen movie clichés, Booksmart offered a fresh, witty, and emotionally honest look at friendship, ambition, and growing up. The film received widespread critical acclaim for its energetic direction, sharp screenplay, and standout performances from Beanie Feldstein and Kaitlyn Dever. The film was one of my favorites from 2019.
More importantly, Booksmart established Wilde as a filmmaker with a distinctive voice, one capable of balancing humor with genuine emotional resonance. It earned numerous critics’ awards and remains one of my defining comedy debuts of the last decade.
I was lucky enough to attend the Red Carpet with “Booksmart”, when it played at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco on Tuesday, April 16, 2019, as part of the SFFILM Festival (formerly the San Francisco International Film Festival). Olivia didn’t come alone sh brought most of the cast members with her including film stars Kaitlyn Dever and Beanie Feldstein.




Continuing to Grow Behind the Camera
Following Booksmart, Wilde directed Don’t Worry Darling, demonstrating her willingness to tackle ambitious psychological storytelling and visually striking cinema. While the film generated significant public conversation, it further cemented her reputation as a director eager to take creative risks.
Her third feature, The Invite, represents another evolution in her filmmaking. The comedy-drama stars Wilde alongside Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz, and Edward Norton in an intimate story about two San Francisco couples whose seemingly ordinary dinner party turns into an unexpectedly revealing exploration of relationships, vulnerability, and intimacy. Adapted from the Spanish film The People Upstairs, the screenplay was written by Rashida Jones and Will McCormack.
The Invite Opens the 2026 San Francisco International Film Festival
San Francisco provides the perfect backdrop for Wilde’s latest film. Set in the city and embracing its unique character, The Invite was selected as an Opening Night presentation at the 69th San Francisco International Film Festival, where audiences had the opportunity to experience the film before its wider theatrical release. Wilde was expected to attend the screening and participate in festival events celebrating the film.
The opening-night screening at the iconic Castro Theatre marked a fitting homecoming for a film so deeply connected to San Francisco’s neighborhoods, culture, and energy. Critics have praised The Invite for its sophisticated humor, outstanding ensemble cast, and thoughtful exploration of modern relationships, with many describing it as Wilde’s most confident work as a director to date.




The Future Looks Bright
Olivia Wilde’s career has become an inspiring example of artistic reinvention. Beginning as a talented actress and steadily emerging as one of Hollywood’s most intriguing directors, she has consistently sought projects that challenge both audiences and herself. One thing is for sure, her future is bright both as a director and an actress.
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