Sept. 17th, 2025 – The Playhouse welcomed a packed house for the East Coast premiere of Waltzing with Brando, followed by a lively Q&A with lead actor Billy Zane and director Bill Fishman, moderated by former NYT film critic Janet Maslin.
The film tells the little-known true story of Marlon Brando’s bold mission to build the world’s first ecologically perfect retreat on Tetiaroa, a remote atoll in Tahiti. Based on architect Bernard Judge’s memoir, the story blends comedy, ambition, and resilience against a backdrop of unspoiled paradise.
Following the screening, Zane and Fishman gave audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film—how the project first came about, what they discovered in bringing Brando’s vision to the screen, and the unique challenges of shooting pivotal scenes. Their candid reflections offered a deeper appreciation for both the creative process and the timeless themes at the heart of the story.
We extend our thanks to Billy Zane, Bill Fishman, and Clive Davis for bringing this premiere to the Playhouse and sharing such an engaging evening with our community.
📸 Peter T Michaelis
