Tim Robey, a film critic for The Telegraph and author of 'Box Office Poison,' dives into Charlie Kaufman's intrepid directorial debut, 'Synecdoche, New York.' He shares insights on how the film, initially a flop, has grown into a celebrated classic. The discussion explores Kaufman's unique storytelling style, the emotional complexities within the film, and the hurdles he faced in production. Robey reflects on the impact of this poignant narrative on the indie film landscape and how it speaks to the struggles of neurotic artists.
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Demetriou's Introduction to Synecdoche
Jamie Demetriou watched Synecdoche, New York on his way to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
He rewatched it several times, moved by its portrayal of life's struggles.
insights INSIGHT
Synecdoche's Impact
Synecdoche, New York is considered one of the best films of the century.
It marked a high point for indie cinema but also signaled the end of an era.
insights INSIGHT
Kaufman's Elevator Nightmare
Charlie Kaufman's recurring elevator nightmare reflects his screenplays.
This symbolizes being trapped between life stages or career stagnation.
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This 608-page graphic novel by Alex Robinson is a complex and absorbing tale that follows the lives of Sherman, Dorothy, Ed, Stephen, Jane, and Mr. Flavor. It is praised for its natural and inspiring dialogue, making it a delightful and whimsical portrayal of young adulthood. The story touches on various aspects of life, including dreary jobs, comic book culture, love, sex, and the challenges of growing up.
When screenwriter Charlie Kaufman started making his epic, heartbreaking directorial debut SYNECDOCHE, NEW YORK, he was the toast of Hollywood. Then it flopped, put a pause on his career, and arguably marked the end of the heady “indiewood” era of the oughties. Host Rico Gagliano talks to one of the film’s stars, Daniel London (MINORITY REPORT), comedy star and SYNECDOCHE superfan Jamie Demetriou (FLEABAG), and LA Times critic Amy Nicholson to learn about a movie that’s now seen as one of the best of the century.
The latest season of The MUBI Podcast – BOX OFFICE POISON — dives into six visionary films... that were also notorious flops. Inspired by the new book of the same name by Tim Robey, film critic for The Telegraph, every episode is a wild ride through a great movie's rise, and fall, and rise.
DAHOMEY will stream exclusively on MUBI in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Germany, Turkey, India and Latin America from December 13.
To stream some of the films we've covered on the podcast, check out the collection Featured on the MUBI Podcast. Availability of films varies depending on your country. You can listen to the Kermode & Mayo's Take podcast here.
MUBI is a global streaming service, production company and film distributor dedicated to elevating great cinema. MUBI makes, acquires, curates, and champions extraordinary films, connecting them to audiences all over the world. A place to discover ambitious new films and singular voices, from iconic directors to emerging auteurs. Each carefully chosen by MUBI’s curators.