Shelley Duvall: "In good shape mentally" on final film set, motivated to reshape legacy

Despite past struggles, Shelley Duvall delivered a powerful performance in her final film, "The Forest Hills."

New details have emerged about Shelley Duvall's final film appearance in "The Forest Hills," revealing a dedicated actress determined to reshape her public image.

Duvall, who passed away in July 2024 at the age of 75, starred in the psychological thriller alongside Chiko Mendez. While she initially had a cameo role, director Scott Goldberg was so impressed with her dedication that he expanded her part.

Now, a new interview with the cast and crew of The Forest Hills in The Guardian has shed light on Duvall’s final film appearance.

Despite past struggles with mobility and remembering lines, Duvall reportedly impressed the cast and crew with her focus and commitment. Goldberg, a long-time admirer of Duvall's work, described her mental state as "sharp as a tack" and her performance as "powerful and nuanced."

Duvall's involvement in the film was also motivated by a desire to move beyond her portrayal on Dr. Phil in 2016, an interview widely criticized for exploiting her mental health struggles. Goldberg stated that Duvall "deeply regretted" the Dr. Phil appearance and that "The Forest Hills" offered her an opportunity to showcase her talent on a positive note.

This news sheds light on a different side of Duvall's story, one of resilience and a desire for artistic control. While best known for her iconic role in Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining," Duvall enjoyed a diverse career with acclaimed performances in films like "Nashville" and "3 Women" (which earned her a Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress).

"The Forest Hills" is set for release next week in the US and will be available digitally worldwide. Fans can look forward to seeing a powerful performance from Duvall, a testament to her enduring talent and dedication to her craft.