Why Harrison Ford Urged Miley Cyrus to Avoid Filming ‘Something Beautiful’ in a Forest

Miley Cyrus’ upcoming short film, Something Beautiful, has a unique backstory that includes some insightful advice from none other than Star Wars and Indiana Jones legend Harrison Ford. As the film’s premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 6 coincides with the release of Cyrus’ ninth studio album, the singer-songwriter has opened up about how Ford’s feedback helped shape the visual project.

In a recent interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, Cyrus shared that the idea for Something Beautiful originally stemmed from a performance-based concept for her album. She envisioned a series of intimate performances titled “Somewhere Beautiful,” filmed in visually striking locations, such as forests and the pyramids. The idea was part of her broader vision for the album’s rollout, combining music with stunning visuals.

Harrison Ford’s Practical Advice

However, Cyrus was quick to acknowledge that Ford, whom she described as a longtime acquaintance from growing up in the Disney circle, had a practical perspective that changed her approach. “I said, ‘Well, I have an idea,’” Cyrus recalled. “I said, ‘Actually, I made something. I have a PDF on my phone I could show you.'” After showing Ford her concept of performing in beautiful, remote locations, he gave her some unexpectedly valuable advice.

Ford, known for his no-nonsense attitude, raised concerns about the practicality of filming in such challenging environments. “You really want to go and set up in a forest and do what?” Ford asked, questioning the logistics. “You gonna bring a crew? You got to… Looks expensive.” The feedback led Cyrus to rethink her idea, humorously recalling, “I came back to the trailer, I was like, ‘Guys, we’re not performing in the forest anymore. Harrison Ford made a lot of sense.’”

A New Vision: ‘Something Beautiful’

Taking Ford’s advice to heart, Cyrus pivoted from her original concept and instead focused on creating Something Beautiful, a visual project that would allow her to offer a live performance experience without the physical demands of an exhaustive tour. “That’s why I’m putting it into theaters because it’s something you can watch night after night after night and you get to discover and you get to feel like you’re a part of a performance but I don’t have to tax myself in that way,” she explained.

The short film reflects Cyrus’ innovative approach to blending music and visual art, offering audiences a performance that they can engage with repeatedly, without the physical strain of a traditional tour. This move, she said, was not just a creative decision but also a way of making her music accessible in a new and immersive way.

Praise for Legends Like Stevie Nicks and Dolly Parton

During her conversation with Zane Lowe, Cyrus also took the opportunity to express admiration for other iconic artists, including Stevie Nicks, Elton John, and Dolly Parton, who she says continue to support new and rising talent. “They want to be celebrated, they want to be incorporated,” Cyrus noted. “And that’s what legends do, they keep up. And so for anyone that is not paying attention to pop music, tune your ear.”

Cyrus’ comments emphasize her belief in the importance of artists like Nicks and Parton, who remain active and supportive of contemporary music and new generations of musicians. This mindset is something that Cyrus herself embraces, as seen in her collaborations and innovative approach to music and performance.

A Beautiful Evolution

With Something Beautiful set to debut at the Tribeca Film Festival and Cyrus’ album out now, it’s clear that the singer is evolving both as an artist and as a creative force. Her collaboration with Ford on the project highlights not only her willingness to take advice but also her drive to create something meaningful without being bound by traditional expectations.

Whether through her music, visuals, or the legendary advice she’s received, Miley Cyrus is carving her own path in the entertainment world — a journey that continues to captivate both long-time fans and newcomers alike.