Recently, a nostalgic reunion of the cast members from the iconic film “Now and Then” took center stage at ELLE’s Women in Hollywood event. This special occasion was spotlighted by partnerships with prominent names like Ralph Lauren, TikTok, and Harry Winston, allowing Hollywood luminaries to gather and honor the achievements of women in the industry. Among the honorees was the remarkable Demi Moore, celebrated not only for her performances but also for her commendable work as a producer. The event was a powerful reminder of how far the film industry has come in terms of representation and female empowerment.
As the evening progressed, actresses Melanie Griffith, Rita Wilson, and Rosie O’Donnell shared heartfelt anecdotes about their experiences working alongside Moore nearly three decades ago. They reflected on the significance of “Now and Then,” a film produced and directed by women that featured a predominately female cast—a rarity in 1995. Their reminiscences served to highlight how groundbreaking such a project was at a time when female narratives were often sidelined in Hollywood.
The heartfelt tribute offered insight into the camaraderie that has stood the test of time among these remarkable women. Griffith noted, “We were all honored that she asked us to be a part of that film,” illustrating the shared sense of purpose during its production. O’Donnell added depth to their discussion by emphasizing the cultural weight of the film; it was more than just entertainment— it was a collective step forward in defining women’s roles both on-screen and in creative capacities.
One of the highlights of the night was a discussion of Demi Moore’s impact on the film industry. The actresses touched upon Moore’s daring choice to grace the cover of Vanity Fair while seven months pregnant, a move that was both shocking and revolutionary at that time. Wilson quipped about the evolution of celebrity culture, reflecting on how today’s red carpet looks often leave little to the imagination compared to Moore’s iconic cover.
Moore’s portrayal of multifaceted characters in major films—such as “Ghost,” “A Few Good Men,” and “Indecent Proposal”—was acknowledged extensively. The actresses celebrated her ability to choose roles that challenged stereotypes and showcased empowering narratives for women. Griffith humorously echoed a line from “The First Wives Club,” lamenting the limited roles for women but contrasted that narrative against Moore’s consistent ability to thrive in Hollywood, reflecting the potential for women to craft their own paths.
As the evening unfolded, O’Donnell noted Moore’s resurgence in popularity, coining it the “Demi-ssance.” This term captures the essence of Moore’s current career trajectory and the renewed interest in her body of work. Recently, she has not only returned to the spotlight but has also taken on roles and projects that resonate with audiences today. This renaissance is a testament to the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood and the importance of sustaining female-led narratives.
The night concluded with a nostalgic homage to their previous projects while still acknowledging the hurdles the industry faces. The gathering was not just a celebration of individual achievements; it underscored a collective sisterhood among women in Hollywood who have fought to create more inclusive narratives.
The reunion of the “Now and Then” cast at ELLE’s event served as a poignant reminder of the necessity of female representation in cinema. Through their shared history and individual accomplishments, Melanie Griffith, Rita Wilson, Rosie O’Donnell, and Demi Moore created a vibrant tapestry of collaboration and empowerment that resonates with many today. Their contributions not only speak to their personal experiences but also to the broader movement towards more meaningful and diverse storytelling in Hollywood. The nostalgic vibes of the night demonstrated that while times may change, the value of solidarity and support among women remains timeless.