The Director’s Cut - A DGA Podcast
The Holdovers with Alexander Payne and Jason Reitman (Ep. 452)
Dec 8, 2023
Director Alexander Payne discusses his new film, The Holdovers, with Jason Reitman. They talk about the inspiration for the story, the lead actors' performances, and filmic inspirations. The film follows a history teacher forming bonds with students over Christmas. They also explore casting, directing actors, working with a new cinematographer, using snow in filmmaking, and self-reflection in filmmaking.
30:20
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Quick takeaways
- Authenticity and spontaneity drive the director's filmmaking process, drawing inspiration from classic cinema.
- Careful casting choices and character development enhance the film's authenticity and emotional depth.
Deep dives
The Importance of Authenticity in Filmmaking
The director discusses how he favors an instinctual approach to filmmaking over storyboarding, emphasizing how authenticity and spontaneity play a key role in his creative process. He shares an example of a scene in the film where a powerful shot was conceived on the way to the set, inspired by classic cinema like 'The Godfather,' highlighting his approach to drawing inspiration from diverse sources.
