Justine Triet, director of one of the most talked about movies of the fall, discusses making a courtroom thriller that challenges genre tropes and our obsession with true crime. They explore the influence of Preminger movies and the challenges of shooting in a contained courtroom space. They also discuss the atypical nature of the main character and the unique perspective added by shooting with animals.
The director challenges the conventions of the courtroom thriller genre by adding flat moments of realism and avoiding the typical twist ending.
The director draws inspiration from director Otto Preminger to capture the complexity and warlike nature of courtroom proceedings while adding her own twist to create a unique cinematic experience.
Deep dives
Approach to Genre and Cliches
The director discusses her approach to the thriller genre and how she deviates from cliches to create something fresh. She draws inspiration from courtroom films but adds flat moments of realism to challenge the conventions. The film goes beyond the typical twist ending found in courthouse films. It aims to find its own voice within the genre.
Influence of Preminger
The director discusses the influence of director Otto Preminger on her filmmaking. She admires his modern approach and taking the time to listen and develop the trial scenes. She tries to capture the complexity and warlike nature of courtroom proceedings. While inspired by Preminger's style, she adds her own twist to create a unique cinematic experience.
Creating a Messy Atmosphere
The director emphasizes her interest in creating a messy and realistic atmosphere within the courtroom. She wanted to move away from the clean and symmetrical framing often used in movies, opting instead for a more authentic portrayal. She wanted to capture the fatigue and transpiration of the characters, making the space feel alive and relatable.
Challenging Victim Stereotypes
The director discusses the character of Sandra and how she refuses to be portrayed as a typical victim. Sandra's strength and refusal to perform victimhood make her a complex and multifaceted character. The director wanted to show that Sandra's power becomes her downfall in the courtroom, highlighting the difficult balance of strength and vulnerability.
The director of one of the most talked about movies of the fall joins us to discuss making a courtroom thriller quite unlike any other, using film form to challenge the tropes of the genre and our obsession with true crime.