I recently watched the movie IF, a 2024 American live-action animated fantasy comedy film crafted by John Krasinski. The film tells the enchanting tale of a girl who discovers she can see everyone’s imaginary friends and embarks on a magical journey to reconnect them with their now-grown children. The movie concludes with a poignant tribute to the late Louis Gossett Jr.
The Legendary Cast of IF
John Krasinski’s IF boasts a stellar ensemble cast, featuring A-listers such as Steve Carell, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Bradley Cooper, George Clooney, and Emily Blunt. Yet, at the heart of these endearing characters is a bear named Lewis, voiced by the late, great Louis Gossett Jr. Krasinski shared how Gossett Jr. brought a deeply personal connection to the film, adding layers of emotional depth and meaning.
John Krasinski Reflects on Louis Gossett Jr.’s Role in IF Following His Passing
John Krasinski fondly recalled working with Louis Gossett Jr., especially considering the film’s release shortly after the actor’s passing. The central theme of IF—that nothing beloved is ever truly forgotten—resonated profoundly with Gossett Jr.’s involvement. Krasinski reflected on this surreal experience:
“It was more than an honor to work with him. I admired him greatly growing up, so having him in this movie was monumental. The news of his passing was incredibly sad, and the fact that his last role centered around the idea that nothing loved is ever forgotten was really surreal and hard to process.”
In IF, Lewis the Bear teaches Bea the importance of cherishing and recalling childhood memories, a message that resonates deeply with Gossett Jr.’s enduring legacy.
Louis Gossett Jr.’s Personal Connection to IF
Krasinski also shared an intimate story about his first conversation with Gossett Jr. regarding his character in IF. The actor immediately connected with the vision, particularly because it mirrored his own life experiences. Krasinski explained:
“The first time we spoke, I always pitch my ideas before someone reads the script to give them a sense of my vision. I told him about his character, who ran a retirement home near Coney Island. He immediately connected, mentioning the boardwalk. I hadn’t pitched that detail yet, and he revealed he grew up on Coney Island.”
In a touching scene set at Coney Island, Lewis the Bear discusses the significance of memories with Bea. This location held special meaning for Gossett Jr., who had fond memories of the area:
“He told me about growing up on Coney Island, how his father would take him to the boardwalk to listen to music and how he could still remember the smells of the food. I was astonished because that’s exactly the speech I had written for his character. It was magical and incredibly moving to have someone bring such authenticity to the role.”
This heartfelt connection added an extraordinary layer of authenticity to IF. Krasinski was deeply moved by this synchronicity, remarking:
“I told him ‘You won’t believe this, but that’s the speech I wrote for you.’ He simply replied ‘Well then, right on, let’s get to it.’ It was a magical moment, and he brought everything to the role.”
Now, let’s talk about the post-credit scene.
The Poignant Post-Credits Scene
Modern moviegoers are accustomed to staying through the credits for additional scenes, and IF does not disappoint. The film’s post-credits scene is a touching tribute to Louis Gossett Jr. Rather than setting up a sequel, the scene honors Gossett’s contribution to the film.
In IF, Gossett plays Lewis, an elderly teddy bear who leads the imaginary friends and runs their retirement home. The post-credits scene showcases several shots of Lewis set to sentimental music, culminating in a brief goodbye and thank you to Gossett. This serves as a sweet and emotional farewell to the performer, highlighting his importance both in the story and in real life.
As one of Gossett’s final roles, Lewis the Bear is a fitting send-off. Within the film, Lewis is universally beloved by the other imaginary friends, mirroring the admiration Gossett received throughout his impressive career.
The post-credits scene in IF is a sentimental farewell to one of the film’s most iconic performers. The film, released shortly after Gossett Jr.’s passing, ensures his memory and contributions will be cherished.
To witness Louis Gossett Jr.’s touching performance as Lewis the Bear, IF is now playing in theaters.
