The Genius of 'Uncut Gems.' Plus: the Safdie Brothers! | The Big Picture
Dec 26, 2019
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Josh and Benny Safdie, the talented filmmaking duo behind 'Uncut Gems,' delve into the intense journey of creating their renowned film. They discuss Adam Sandler's transformative performance and the film's themes of sports gambling. The brothers share insights on the casting process, especially with real-life athletes, and the challenges of capturing authentic New York life through dynamic dialogue. They also reflect on the risks inherent in filmmaking, likening it to gambling, while highlighting the significance of music in enhancing emotional impact.
Adam Sandler's performance in Uncut Gems marks a pivotal shift in his career, illustrating his ability to excel in serious roles beyond comedy.
The Safdie brothers accurately depict the complexities of sports betting in Uncut Gems, setting it apart from typical portrayals in cinema.
The film intricately connects to New York's cinematic heritage, using the city's chaotic energy as a vital character that shapes the narrative.
Deep dives
Adam Sandler's Transformative Role
Adam Sandler's performance in Uncut Gems is acknowledged as a significant shift in his career, showcasing his ability to take on serious roles. The podcast discusses how Sandler's character, Howard Ratner, embodies traits such as sociopathy and intense ambition, which align with the actor's comedic persona in a thrilling way. This marks a return to dramatic work for Sandler, a move that he makes approximately every ten years to demonstrate his range beyond comedic roles. Notable past performances that paved the way for this evolution include appearances in films like Punch Drunk Love and funny people.
Authenticity in Sports Gambling
Uncut Gems presents a nuanced depiction of sports gambling that distinguishes it from typical cinematic portrayals. The podcast highlights how the film carefully illustrates the concept of a parlay bet, making it a central theme without oversimplifying or exaggerating the stakes. The Safdies aimed to accurately portray the intricacies and excitement of sports betting, an area often misrepresented in films. This authenticity is compared to previous gambling films, establishing Uncut Gems as a genuine exploration of the gambling culture tied to sports.
New York City and Its Cinematic Legacy
The podcast underscores the film's connection to the rich lineage of New York cinema, linking it to iconic films that capture the essence of the city. The Safdie brothers utilize their deep New York roots to portray the swift, uncaring nature of urban life, a theme prevalent in classic movies such as Dog Day Afternoon and Do the Right Thing. This setting provides a backdrop that is both familiar and chaotic, mirroring Howard Ratner's frantic lifestyle. The energy of New York serves not just as a location but as an integral character, influencing the film's pacing and atmosphere.
The Unique Role of Basketball
Uncut Gems gains depth through its integration of basketball, particularly by featuring Kevin Garnett during his 2012 NBA season. The film not only immerses viewers in the world of sports but also reframes the narrative around Garnett's impressive performance, which enhances the tension of the story. The podcast reflects on the rare instances when NBA players are portrayed authentically in cinema, marking Garnett's role as a standout performance. The casting evolution, which saw potential roles for players like Amari Stoudemire and Joel Embiid, ultimately led to a compelling dynamic that resonates with basketball culture.
Cinematic Techniques Elevating Tension
The podcast mentions the film's editing and cinematography as crucial elements that contribute to its anxious atmosphere. Darius Khondji's cinematography captures the tension effectively, while the rapid editing style reflects Howard's chaotic life and spiraling decisions. The integration of overlapping dialogue is highlighted as a means to replicate the overwhelming pace of life in New York City. This complexity in sound and image serves to immerse the audience in Howard's frantic mental state throughout the film.
The Powerful Score of Uncut Gems
Daniel Lopatin's score is defined as an essential element of the movie, imbuing it with a pulsating energy that heightens the tension. The music blends ambient instrumentation with intense beats, paralleling Howard's fluctuating emotional state. The podcast emphasizes how the score interacts with the dialogue and visuals, creating a symbiotic relationship that enhances the overall sensory experience. Rather than an underlying presence, the score acts as an active participant, reflecting the manic, chaotic rhythm of Howard's life in the diamond district.
This is how the Safdies win. Sean shares the 12 highly specific things he loves (with spoilers!) about the New York brothers' new film (0:55). Then, Josh and Benny Safdie join Sean to talk about the long road to its creation (16:04).
