Caroline Thompson highlights the challenges and rewards of working with animals in films like Black Beauty and Buddy, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting animals on set.
Caroline shares insights into the impact of technology on creativity in filmmaking, expressing concerns about the reduction of language and variety in expression in modern films, and the need for originality and depth in storytelling.
Carolyn discusses the challenges of gender bias and the importance of diverse voices in the film industry, emphasizing the need for authenticity and personal expression in creating meaningful and thought-provoking films.
Deep dives
Personal Journey Through Film and Writing
The guest, Carolyn Thompson, shares her journey in writing and filmmaking. Starting with discovering her passion for writing during college, she recounts her transition from being a novelist to a screenwriter and director. She discusses her experiences working on films such as Edward Scissorhands, The Addams Family, and Welcome to Marwen, highlighting the challenges and rewards of adapting stories and working with diverse characters across different genres.
Insights into Directing and Working with Animals
Carolyn shares her insights into directing and working with animals in films like Black Beauty and Buddy. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting animals on set, ensuring their safety and well-being. She discusses the challenges and successes of creating scenes with animals, such as horses and chimps, and the impact of using real animals versus CGI in storytelling.
Exploring Storytelling and Creativity in Film
The conversation delves into the evolving landscape of storytelling in film and the impact of technology on creativity. Carolyn expresses concerns about the reduction of language and variety in expression in modern films, citing a need for originality and depth in storytelling. She reflects on the importance of liberal arts education in nurturing critical thinking and diverse perspectives in filmmaking.
Challenges of Gender and Perspective in the Film Industry
Carolyn discusses the challenges of gender bias and perspective in the film industry, highlighting the importance of diverse voices and viewpoints in storytelling. She reflects on the impact of sexism and formulaic approaches in filmmaking, emphasizing the need for authenticity and personal expression in creating meaningful and thought-provoking films.
The Future of Filmmaking and Artistic Integrity
The conversation concludes with a reflection on the future of filmmaking and artistic integrity. Carolyn expresses gratitude for her creative journey and shares insights on ensuring artistic freedom and integrity in a changing industry. She encourages aspiring writers and filmmakers to stay true to their vision and explore diverse perspectives to expand storytelling horizons.
SEASON 2 - EPISODE 34 - CAROLINE THOMPSON - WRITER / DIRECTOR
Team Deakins is happy to share our conversation with writer, director, and novelist Caroline Thompson (EDWARD SCISSORHANDS, BLACK BEAUTY, THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS). We talk about the life of a screenwriter and the commitment Caroline demonstrated throughout her career. No other episode has featured this much discussion on animals and filmmaking! We cover working with horses on BLACK BEAUTY, apes on BUDDY, and birds in THE SECRET GARDEN. Caroline offers insight into the creative and logistical challenges of working with animals and of their unpredictable but inimitable benefits when compared to their digital counterparts. Towards the end of our conversation, Caroline also shares some straightforward advice for young screenwriters and filmmakers. Enjoy the episode!
-
This episode is sponsored by TrueCut Motion
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
