Fisher Stevens, actor and documentary filmmaker, talks about landing in director's jail, making docs, working with the United Nations, and his role on Succession. He discusses his different approach to making the Beckham docuseries for Netflix. From his career in theater to working with Matt Dillon, their conversation covers movies, environmental frustrations, and navigating a corporate TV environment. The chapter also includes casual conversation, ad segments and jokes.
Fisher Stevens discusses his journey from acting to directing to making documentary films.
Stevens shares his experience of landing himself in director's jail and the challenges he faced.
Stevens talks about his work on environmental documentaries and his passion for raising awareness about environmental issues.
Deep dives
Starting out in New York City
The speaker shares their experience of growing up in Chicago and then moving to New York City at a young age. They describe the vibrant yet challenging environment they found themselves in, with colorful characters and an exciting atmosphere.
Early acting experiences
The speaker discusses their early experiences in acting, including studying with a renowned acting teacher and being inspired by other actors in the industry. They share fond memories of working with talented actors and the valuable lessons learned throughout their journey.
Working in film and television
The speaker reflects on their career in film and television, highlighting various projects and the range of characters they have portrayed. They share their changing perspective on the industry and their realization of the importance of different opportunities and mediums of storytelling.
Lessons learned and new perspectives
The speaker discusses the lessons they have learned throughout their acting career and their evolving perspective on the industry. They reflect on the importance of being present in the moment and appreciating each opportunity, rather than constantly striving for what is next.
David Beckham's Journey in Soccer
The documentary explores the fascinating life and career of soccer legend David Beckham. Despite enduring difficult moments and facing intense scrutiny from the British press, Beckham's talent and determination made him a game-changer in the sport. The film delves into pivotal moments, such as the 1998 World Cup incident and his transition from playing in England to joining the Real Madrid team. It also highlights Beckham's family life and showcases his children, who have carved their own paths in the public eye. Overall, the documentary provides a captivating portrait of Beckham's journey as a player and an individual.
Fisher Stevens: A Multifaceted Filmmaker
The podcast episode features filmmaker Fisher Stevens, who discusses his diverse career and experiences in the film industry. Stevens shares anecdotes from directing plays and movies, such as his collaboration with actor Peter Dinklage. He also reflects on his foray into documentary filmmaking, starting with films like 'Once in a Lifetime,' which explored soccer in America, and 'Crazy Love,' a captivating story of a tumultuous relationship. Stevens later delves into his work on environmental documentaries such as 'The Cove' and his growing interest in raising awareness about environmental issues. The conversation touches on Stevens' involvement with the United Nations and his recent work on the acclaimed TV show 'Succession.' Through the episode, listeners gain insight into Stevens' versatile career and passion for storytelling.
Fisher Stevens left a lasting impression on Marc in the early ‘80s when Fisher was in Brighton Beach Memoirs on Broadway. Since then, Fisher’s career has taken him from acting to directing to making documentary films, winning an Oscar for The Cove. Fisher talks with Marc about landing himself in director’s jail, what drove him toward making docs, how working with the United Nations led to his role on Succession, and why he needed a different set of tools to make the Beckham docuseries for Netflix.
