Brad Pitt Says 'Ad Astra' Is A Personal Film That Digs at 'Definition of Masculinity'

Brad Pitt is all smiles as he poses for photographs at the photo call for his upcoming film Ad Astra held during the 2019 Venice Film Festival at Sala Grande on Thursday (August 29) in Venice, Italy.

The 55-year-old actor and producer was joined by his co-stars Liv Tyler and Ruth Negga, as well as the film’s director James Gray.

Here’s a synopsis: Astronaut Roy McBride (Pitt) travels to the outer edges of the solar system to find his missing father and unravel a mystery that threatens the survival of our planet. His journey will uncover secrets that challenge the nature of human existence and our place in the cosmos.

“In retrospect, what James and I were digging at was that definition of masculinity,” Brad Pitt said at the press conference (via Variety). “We’ve both grown up in an era where we were asked to be strong…and there is a value in that, but [also a] barrier because you’re hiding some of those things you feel ashamed of. We all hide and carry individual pain and wounds.”

“We were asking the questions – is there a better definition [of masculinity] for us… a better relationship with loved ones, with your kids and with ourselves?,” Brad continued, adding that he and James Gray didn’t have a “normal male relationship” because they were “open about sharing feelings, perceived failures or missteps” with each other.

Brad also said Ad Astra was “one of the most challenging films I’ve ever worked on. The story is so delicate and we knew that any clips, voiceover could tip the film over, make it too obvious, so it was a constant effort to try to maintain a balance and keep this story unfolding in a very subtle and delicate way.”

Ad Astra, is expected to premiere at the festival later in the day. Click here to watch the trailer!

FYI: Brad is wearing David Yurman jewelry. Ruth is wearing Louis Vuitton.