Team Deakins Sam Mendes - Director
Jun 14, 2020
Renowned director Sam Mendes discusses his journey from theater to film, the importance of storytelling and directing, and the elements that make a one-shot film impactful. They also explore Mendes' love for filmmaking and attention to detail, as well as his approach to coverage and collaborations. The podcast touches on themes of entrapment and breaking free in movies, and the differences between directing theater and movies.
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Visual Style
- Mendes sought a stylized, composed aesthetic for American Beauty, contrasting with Scorsese's style.
- He aimed for a blend of high style and observational, deadpan filmmaking.
Hall's Lighting
- Conrad Hall's approach to lighting was meticulous, adjusting lights by inches.
- Mendes appreciated Hall's inventive, improvisational quality, exemplified by using crumpled plastic bags to create light.
Editing Style
- The editing in American Beauty was a deliberate choice by Mendes, using slow push-ins and rigid frames.
- Spielberg was surprised by Mendes' confidence in not shooting coverage for a pivotal dinner scene.