Jeremy Piven Stars in The Performance: A Riveting Portrayal of a Jewish Artist in Nazi-Era Berlin

The Performance showcases Jeremy Piven in a career-defining role.

Director Shira Piven’s latest film, The Performance, is generating significant buzz as it enters the U.S. awards race, following screenings at several prestigious international film festivals. This ambitious project is based on Arthur Miller’s 2002 short story. It is set to debut in select theaters in December. A broader release is scheduled for January 24, 2025. The Performance stars Jeremy Piven and Robert Carlyle, who bring Miller’s tense, historically rich tale to life on screen.

Inspired by Miller’s story first published in The New Yorker, The Performance tells the journey of Harold May. He is a Jewish American tap dancer invited to perform in 1937 Berlin. Unaware of the risks, Harold accepts the lucrative offer, only to confront the dangerous undercurrents of Nazi Germany. The film captures the suspense in Miller’s work. It highlights the moral dilemmas and delivers a drama that resonates deeply with today’s audiences.

The movie premiered at the 2023 Rome Film Festival.

It continued its journey at film festivals in Miami, Palm Springs, and Transylvania. The film received accolades for its historical depth and powerful performances. I got a chance to talk to Piven himself. I mentioned this buzzing film, which had not been shown yet.

Produced by Sparks Go and Daniel Finkelman Films, The Performance is a family passion project for the Pivens. Joyce Piven, the celebrated acting coach and mother to Jeremy and Shira, introduced them to Miller’s narrative, recognizing the story’s unique blend of personal struggle and historical significance. Jeremy Piven was captivated by the role of Harold, a character whose artistic drive and innocence place him at the heart of a dangerous political landscape. Shira and co-writer Joshua Salzberg adapted Miller’s work into a screenplay that brings Harold’s complex journey to the forefront.

Shira Piven highlights the film’s relevance, noting, “The Performance explores how we navigate the boundaries between personal ambition and moral responsibility. It focuses on the challenges we face, particularly when confronting an oppressive system.” Jeremy Piven echoed this sentiment, saying, “Harold is a character who has to decide how much of himself he’s willing to sacrifice for his art. It’s a universal question—how far will we go, and what will we risk, to achieve success? I think audiences will connect with that struggle.”

Cinematographer Lael Utnik enhances the historical authenticity by incorporating vintage 8mm footage.

Filming takes place in Slovakia’s Bratislava, which is known for its preserved 1930s architecture. This setting and choreographer Jared Grimes’ expressive tap sequences add a layer of cultural richness to the film. The cast includes Robert Carlyle, Adam Garcia, and the late Suzanne Shepherd. Her final performance adds poignancy to the ensemble.

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As The Performance embarks on its U.S. theatrical journey, Geno Taylor, Head of GVN Releasing, expressed excitement about the film’s impact: “This story of resilience and identity feels incredibly timely.” With its powerful cast, compelling visuals, and rich thematic content, The Performance is poised to make waves this awards season, offering a unique take on the complexities of art, identity, and historical legacy.

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