Phil Alden Robinson, acclaimed writer and director known for classics like Field of Dreams, shares his journey from journalism to filmmaking. He discusses the chaotic yet collaborative nature of film sets and the emotional toll of directing. Robinson reflects on the balance of artistic vision within the industry's pressures and delves into his experiences directing documentaries in war zones. He also examines the evolution of storytelling, stressing character development over flashy visual effects, making insightful observations for aspiring filmmakers.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
From Politics to Screenwriting
Phil Alden Robinson started in politics and journalism before moving into filmmaking via education and training films.
He finally wrote a spec screenplay after years, which got him his first writing job on TV.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Deciding to Direct
Phil had two films in production simultaneously with vastly different experiences of treatment.
He decided to direct his next script to avoid being at the mercy of others.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Making Field of Dreams Magical
Field of Dreams was hard to make due to natural elements like cornfields and drought.
Dennis Gassner creatively sourced fake corn and green-painted grass to solve problems.
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Scott Anderson's 'Lawrence in Arabia' delves into the life of T.E. Lawrence, a pivotal figure in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I. The book also examines the roles of other key figures like Curt Prüfer, Aaron Aaronsohn, and William Yale, providing a comprehensive view of the region's transformation. It highlights the deceit and imperial ambitions that shaped the modern Middle East.
SEASON 2 - EPISODE 143 - Phil Alden Robinson - Writer / Director
In this episode of the Team Deakins Podcast, we speak with writer and director Phil Alden Robinson (THE GOOD FIGHT, THE SUM OF ALL FEARS, FIELD OF DREAMS) about many of his films. Phil was initially interested in politics and journalism, but he eventually made his way to Los Angeles and found his way into a writer’s room based on the strength of a spec script. Phil soon found two of his feature scripts in production, and he reflects on the impact of being treated as badly as possible and as well as possible simultaneously. Later, Phil breaks down how FIELD OF DREAMS came together as a project, and we learn how he overcame an overwhelming sense of stress through the support of his cast and key crew members, including cinematographer John Lindley (Season 1, Episode 34) and production designer Dennis Gassner (Season 1, Episode 131). In addition to his work in features, Phil also directed documentaries for Nightline in a number of war zones, and we discuss the value of living life and taking time off from making movies. We also discuss the ubiquitousness of VFX in cinema today, and Phil shares what he feels to be the real lesson to take away from a film like the original STAR WARS.
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Recommended Viewing: FIELD OF DREAMS, THE SUM OF ALL FEARS
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