Y2K Movie: Kyle Mooney, Jaeden Martell & Julian Dennison Discuss Technology’s Rise and the Film’s Most Heartbreaking Death

Warning: SPOILERS for Y2K! Kyle Mooney’s film Y2K takes a nostalgic yet thrilling trip back to New Year’s Eve 1999, tackling the anxieties many felt about the potential chaos the turn of the millennium could bring. However, Mooney amplifies the tension, presenting a gripping narrative where two high school juniors find themselves in a fight for survival as the clock strikes midnight.

Marking Kyle Mooney’s directorial debut, Y2K features an impressive cast including Jaeden Martell, Rachel Zegler, and Julian Dennison, alongside the iconic Fred Durst. The film creatively merges a sense of nostalgia with an engaging, fantastical plot, providing plenty of humor and gore. Mooney not only directs but also embodies the character Garrett, delivering comedic moments that enrich the film’s overall tone. Audiences can catch Y2K in theaters starting December 6.

In an exclusive interview with ScreenRant, Kyle Mooney, Jaeden Martell, and Julian Dennison shared insights about their experiences while making Y2K. Mooney highlighted Fred Durst’s significance in the film as an embodiment of that nostalgic era. Martell reflected on the valuable lessons learned from Durst, while all three actors opened up about their hypothetical chances of surviving a modern technological uprising.

Fred Durst Was Kyle Mooney’s Top Pick for Y2K

“He’s so evocative of that time period that when we found out the movie was going, he was the first person we reached out to.”

Screen Rant: What was it like securing Fred Durst for this role?

Kyle Mooney: Fred was truly a dream collaborator, one I didn’t even realize I wanted until we began this project. My writing partner Evan and I pitched this idea back in 2019, and Fred was our first thought—he was just the perfect fit. No one else could quite capture the essence of that era like he could.

When we confirmed the movie was happening, he was our first call. Fortunately, he was eager to join us, and seeing him on set was a relief; he delivered a stunning performance that really elevated the film.

Jaeden Martell on Fred Durst: “He Shared Some Wisdom”

“It was cool to see that he was sort of looking out.”

Jaeden Martell, Rachel Zegler, and Julian Dennison at a party scene in Y2K.

Screen Rant: How was it to collaborate with Durst?

Jaeden Martell: Fred was fantastic—super friendly and a genuinely great actor. I recognized him from his role in I Saw The TV Glow and was impressed. He generously passed on wisdom and seemed truly invested in our success, which felt very nurturing. It’s intriguing to learn he had a unique start at a later age with Limp Bizkit, which added to his perspective.

Julian Dennison: I didn’t have the chance to work directly with him during filming but got to meet him later. He seemed like a lovely person, and I was disappointed not to interact with him on set.

Kyle Mooney, Jaeden Martell & Julian Dennison Uncertain About Survival in a Technological Uprising

“I think in any sort of uprising, I don’t think I’d do well.”

Screen Rant: How do you envision yourself in a technology uprising?

Kyle Mooney: Honestly, I think I’d fare poorly overall. While I might manage to find a hiding spot initially, I doubt I’d last long before I get caught by some unforeseen threat. My instincts are not honed for survival.

Julian Dennison: But you’re a father now! That surely gives you better instincts.

Kyle Mooney: True, but I still feel like it wouldn’t last long. Perhaps I’d be healthy for a bit, only to succumb to a minor injury or illness, which would be pretty embarrassing.

Jaeden Martell: I share that sentiment. I could picture making a decent attempt, but inevitably I’d fall victim to something trivial, like stepping on a nail.

Julian Dennison: Exactly, I’d probably stumble and then just be left there—an easy target. They’d look down at me, feeling sorry for my helplessness.

Danny’s Death Propels Eli’s Character Development in Y2K

“I am really excited by extreme left turns, and I’m excited by audience reactions.”

Screen Rant: What inspired the decision to eliminate a fan-favorite character, Danny, so early in the film?

Kyle Mooney: The idea of his death was embedded in the concept from the very beginning. Although we hadn’t cast Julian Dennison in that role yet, the narrative called for it as a dramatic turn. I thrive on creating surprising moments, hoping that audiences will be shocked and engaged by unexpected developments.

It sets the stage for significant character evolution, particularly for Eli. We strive to keep Danny’s essence alive throughout the film, but I recognize this choice might not resonate well with everyone.

Screen Rant: Was it difficult for you to see your character exit so soon?

Julian Dennison: It was definitely a bittersweet experience. Watching it unfold was poignant, and even though it seems odd to say we honored Danny, it felt fulfilling to see his character impact others as the story progressed.

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31, 1999, two high school juniors find themselves plunged into chaos at a New Year’s party, setting the stage for a thrilling and humorous journey through the anxieties of the digital age.

Y2K arrives in theaters nationwide on December 6.

Source: Screen Rant Plus

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