Cinematic Tensions: Portrayals of War and Humanity

SEASON 2 - EPISODE 150 - A LOOK AT TWO INSPIRATIONAL FILMS - with Joe Walker - Part 2

In this episode of the Team Deakins Podcast, we finish our two-part conversation with editor Joe Walker (Season 1, Episode 35) about two of our favourite films: Richard Brooks' IN COLD BLOOD and Jean-Pierre Melville's ARMY OF SHADOWS. Following the previous episode, we shift our focus towards ARMY OF SHADOWS, contrasting the film's measured pacing with the rapidity of its violence that punctuates several points in the story. We reflect on the emotional effect of the movie's unique sense of rhythm and handmade nature, and we discuss the use (and absence) of music throughout the film. We also reflect on the film's near-lack of inserts and intimacy, and we share how the film successfully adapts the essence of the book from which it is based despite making several story changes. Roger was in college at the time of both films' theatrical runs, and he shares what it was like watching them with contemporary audiences. Later, Joe reveals why he and director Denis Villeneuve (Season 1, Episode 25) vary their film diet and watch "slower" films such as ARMY OF SHADOWS to refresh their brains, and Joe observes that fisherman make great camera operators.

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Recommended Viewing: IN COLD BLOOD (1967), ARMY OF SHADOWS (1969)

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This episode is sponsored by Barco & Aputure