Joining Paul Thomas Anderson's Film
Discussion about the quick decision to join a Paul Thomas Anderson (PTA) project.
- The interviewee confirms it was likely the quickest "yes" to a project.
- Expresses immense admiration for PTA's work and his ability to create immersive, tactile, and real worlds with flawed but believable characters.
Filmmaking Process with PTA
Insights into how PTA directs and collaborates on set.
- PTA has a strong "detector of BS" and ensures everyone on set is at the top of their game.
- Scenes are not moved on from unless PTA feels they are "nailed," often leading to reshoots if not fitting the context or accomplishing his vision.
- The director is flexible and open to new ideas from actors, willing to change narrative structures if a good idea emerges.
Character Development and Inspiration
Exploration of specific character choices and influences.
- The idea for the character Willa having a secret phone stemmed from workshops with the young actress who plays her, highlighting a generational gap in tech savviness.
- The character's disconnection from modern technology, contrasted with his daughter's secret phone, became a significant plot point.
- The influence of "The Dude" from The Big Lebowski on the character's "folk hero" and "keep on trucking" elements is discussed.
- The character, like "The Dude," makes wrong decisions but his "heroism is just moving forward."
Influence of Pre-90s Cinema
Reflection on the impact of older films on storytelling.
- The interviewer believes older movies, particularly pre-90s, allowed for drama to happen more easily due to the absence of mobile phones.
- This lack of technology is seen as contributing to a more "right" feeling in storytelling.
Discussion of impactful performances and films that influenced the interviewee.
- The interviewee mentions Dog Day Afternoon and Al Pacino's performance as an inspiration for a character's relentless pursuit despite not having all the answers.
- James Dean's performance in East of Eden is cited as a deeply moving experience from a young age.
- The interviewee is reminded of "The Dude" by the character in the current film, noting the iconic nature of that performance.
Learning from Industry Veterans
Experiences of interacting with and learning from established actors and directors.
- The interviewee has had opportunities to meet and learn from respected figures in the industry.
- The learning process is described as more about observing their approach and choices rather than direct instruction.
- Specificity, courage, and going for the unexpected in their choices are highlighted as key learning points.
- A memorable director's note from Michael Caden-Jones on the film This Boy's Life is "pain is temporary, film is forever."
Moments of Frustration and Letting Loose
Exploring the portrayal of anger and frustration on screen.
- The interviewer expresses a fondness for seeing the interviewee angry and frustrated on screen, finding it a "delight."
- Scenes involving intense emotion or moments of letting loose are discussed.
Collaborative Storytelling and Improv
The role of collaboration and improvisation in filmmaking.
- The interviewee describes a scene in Wolf where using a foot to open a car door was an improvised solution due to a logistical issue with the car.
- The beauty of collaborating with directors open to new ideas is emphasized.
- Improvised moments, like beating himself up in a trailer scene, can shape the narrative.
- The interviewee notes how directors like Paul Thomas Anderson and Quentin Tarantino create an environment where actors can "fly" and deliver surprising moments.
Hidden Gems and Personal Pride
Identifying films the interviewee is particularly proud of but might be less known.
- The Aviator is mentioned as a film the interviewee is proud of, highlighting the thought put into the character, the production efforts (recreating sets, bringing eras to life), and the personal experience of being a producer.
Personal Archives and Keepsakes
Discussion about collecting props and the role of family in preserving them.
- The interviewee makes an effort to take home a prop related to their character.
- Their mother acts as a collector, keeping these items safe, though their exact location is unknown.
Iconic Director's Notes
Recalling significant pieces of advice from directors.
- The previously mentioned note from Quentin Tarantino ("just effing do it") is recalled.
- The advice from Michael Caden-Jones ("pain is temporary, film is forever") is presented as the most resonant.
Most Watched and Immortal Films
The films the interviewee revisits repeatedly.
- Bicycle Thieves, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Tokyo Story, Vertigo, The Big Lebowski, Goodfellas, and Taxi Driver are listed as films watched numerous times.
The Essence of Cinema
The power and appeal of the medium.
- Cinema is described as an "empathy machine" that can challenge and make audiences uncomfortable.
- The communal experience of watching films in a theater is highlighted as a key aspect, fostering empathy and shared emotional journeys.
- The immersive nature of cinema is praised as a unique art form.
- The interviewee expresses hope for the continued survival and appreciation of cinema.