Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard

Mom's Car: Larry Trilling

Nov 11, 2025
Larry Trilling, a talented television and film director known for his work on Parenthood, shares insights from his creative journey. He recounts his early days making Super 8 films and attending Santa Monica High with notable classmates. Larry discusses the nuances of directing TV, from blocking to nurturing actor performances, and reveals his favorite films and the impact they had on his life. The conversation touches on the potential for a Parenthood revival, sparking nostalgia and enthusiasm for the series.
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ANECDOTE

School With Future Stars

  • Larry Trilling went to Santa Monica High with many future stars like the Penn brothers, Charlie Sheen, Rob Lowe, and Dean Cain. He recalls working out in Brentwood and seeing them as a tight pack before their fame exploded.
ANECDOTE

Teen Filmmaking That Led To JJ Abrams

  • Matt Reeves recruited Larry Trilling into Super 8 filmmaking and Larry acted in, wrote, and made several student films. Their film even aired on LA public access and connected them to J.J. Abrams at a festival.
ANECDOTE

Indie Feature Opened TV Doors

  • Larry's indie feature 'Dinner and Driving' became his calling card and led to TV shadowing on Felicity with J.J. Abrams and Matt Reeves. That path transitioned him from indie films into episodic TV directing.
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