Licorice Pizza with Paul Thomas Anderson and Jeremy Kagan (Ep. 347)
Jan 28, 2022
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Paul Thomas Anderson and Jeremy Kagan discuss the making of 'Licorice Pizza' in a Q&A session. They talk about costume fitting, collaborating with the cinematography team, the role of music and editing, and the shooting sequence of the film. They also express gratitude for the director's expertise.
Director Paul Thomas Anderson wrote the role in 'Licorice Pizza' specifically for Alana Haim, while Cooper Hoffman was cast based on his natural talent and shared qualities with his character.
Anderson believes that non-verbal communication through body language and facial expressions can create powerful and impactful moments in film, encouraging actors to rely on physicality to convey emotions and intentions.
Deep dives
The podcast episode discusses the making of the film 'Licorice Pizza' directed by Paul Thomas Anderson.
In this podcast episode, director Paul Thomas Anderson shares insights and behind-the-scenes details about his coming-of-age comedic drama film 'Licorice Pizza.' The film is set in the early 1970s and follows the romantic relationship between a 15-year-old aspiring entrepreneur named Gary and a 25-year-old yearbook photographer's assistant named Alana in California's San Fernando Valley. Anderson also discusses his collaboration with the young actors, Cooper Hoffman and Alana Haim, and how their natural chemistry and performances contributed to the film's success.
Anderson describes the casting process and working with the young actor Cooper Hoffman.
In the podcast, Anderson reveals that he had previously worked with Alana Haim on music videos and had written the role in 'Licorice Pizza' specifically for her. However, when it came to finding an actor to play opposite her, he went through a traditional casting process. After not finding the right fit, Anderson approached Cooper Hoffman, who had never acted before but shared many qualities with his character. Anderson describes the audition process, which involved Cooper and Alana reading the entire script together and improvising scenes. Anderson highlights Cooper's natural talent, charisma, and empathetic nature as reasons for casting him.
Anderson discusses the use of silence and non-verbal communication in the film.
The podcast delves into Anderson's approach to storytelling and his appreciation for moments of silence and non-verbal communication in film. Anderson believes that some of the most powerful scenes are the ones where characters aren't speaking but communicating through body language and facial expressions. He encourages actors to rely on their physicality and facial expressions to convey emotions and intentions, rather than relying solely on dialogue. Anderson also discusses specific scenes in 'Licorice Pizza' where silence and non-verbal communication play a significant role, creating impactful and memorable moments for the audience.
Anderson shares insights about the filmmaking process and his collaboration with the cast and crew.
Throughout the podcast, Anderson emphasizes the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the joy he experienced while making 'Licorice Pizza.' He discusses the importance of planning and preparation, including pre-production meetings and location scouts. Anderson also shares how he works closely with his cinematographer, gaffer, and camera operator to achieve the desired visual style and lighting. Additionally, he talks about the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of creating a safe and productive working environment. The podcast concludes with a discussion about the music used in the film and Anderson's belief in the power of carefully chosen songs to enhance storytelling.
Director Paul Thomas Anderson discusses his new film, Licorice Pizza, with fellow director Jeremy Kagan in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles.
Set in the early 1970s, the film follows Gary, a 15-year-old aspiring entrepreneur who falls in love with Alana, a 25-year-old yearbook photographer’s assistant, as they embark on a most unlikely romance in California’s San Fernando Valley.
Please note: spoilers are included.
See photos and a summary of this event below:
https://www.dga.org/Events/2022/February2022/LicoricePizza_QnA_122119.aspx
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