David Ayer & Jon Bernthal: Unfiltered Truths of Hollywood & Life
Aug 29, 2023
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Jon Bernthal interviews David Ayer, a renowned filmmaker, discussing their admiration for each other, the impact of a strict football coach and a transformative director. They explore surviving and creating art, finding identity and letting go, navigating challenging environments, military background, and idealistic mindset. They also discuss authenticity, the challenges and dark side of Hollywood, the hunger for authentic art, the impact of divorce on parenting, and their approach to parenting.
David Ayer's commitment to authenticity has shaped the careers and lives of many in Hollywood through the raw beauty of storytelling.
The film 'Training Day' was a breakthrough for David Ayer after facing rejection, and its exploration of power dynamics and moral dilemmas in a corrupt world garnered respect from the community.
David Ayer believed in showcasing the truth, the darkness, and the light in his stories, going against the diminishing narratives in the industry.
The podcast highlights the importance of authenticity in personal journeys, the power of film as a transformative medium, the significance of mental health, and the challenges and joys of parenting.
Deep dives
The Origins of Training Day
The writer, who had personal experiences in the streets, created the script based on stories he heard and his own observations. He wanted to explore the corrupt world of the LAPD and the idea of one man saying no in a corrupt system.
The Journey of Getting Training Day Made
The writer faced rejection for his scripts until Training Day. After multiple iterations, Denzel Washington joined the project and it got made. However, the writer's wild behavior and lack of understanding in navigating Hollywood led to challenges.
The Significance of Training Day
The film explored the power dynamics and moral dilemmas in a corrupt world. It delved into the gray areas and questioned what happens when one man rejects the corruption. The film was unique in its portrayal of the streets, garnering respect from the community.
Artistic Aspirations and Telling Authentic Stories
The writer had a deep understanding of the human experience and wanted to share stories that showcased the complexity of humanity. He believed in showcasing the truth, the darkness, and the light, going against the grain of the diminishing narratives in the industry.
The Importance of Authenticity and Self-Reflection
The podcast episode delves into the significance of being authentic and reflective in one's personal journey. The speaker shares their experience of growing up as a white person in diverse communities and the subsequent questioning of their responsibilities as a storyteller. They emphasize the importance of genuine human connection and creating safe spaces for actors and individuals to explore truth, which can ultimately enhance the quality of their work. The episode highlights the value of self-rescue and continuously striving for authenticity in a society where narratives and identities are often controlled and manipulated by external forces.
The Power of Art and Filmmaking
The podcast highlights the immense power of art, particularly filmmaking, as a transformative medium. The speaker emphasizes that film has the potential to change societies and impact lives instantly, making it both a potentially dangerous and extraordinary tool. They stress the importance of breaking away from controlled narratives and gatekeeping in the film industry to create authentic and meaningful work. The episode reflects on the role of art in providing a safe space for communities, fostering healing and connection, and challenging the status quo.
Navigating Trauma and Toxic Masculinity
The podcast explores the speaker's personal journey of healing from trauma and unraveling toxic masculinity. They discuss the negative self-stories ingrained in their identity and how confronting and healing from past pain has allowed them to embrace vulnerability and authenticity. The episode emphasizes the significance of mental health and self-reflection, particularly in communities where violence and aggression are prevalent. The speaker also touches upon the importance of challenging societal norms and creating safe spaces for men to express emotions and be compassionate leaders.
The Impact of Parenting and Self-Love
The podcast delves into the speaker's role as a parent and the profound impact it has on their life. They discuss their commitment to creating a safe space for their children and learning to understand their unique perspectives. The episode highlights the importance of self-love and honesty, as well as the challenges of parenting while navigating personal healing and growth. The speaker reflects on the significance of being present for their children and striving to be a positive influence in their lives.
Join a candid conversation between Jon and the quintessential "real one", David Ayer. From the gritty streets of Los Angeles to the intense sets of "Fury" and "The Tax Collector", discover how Ayer's commitment to authenticity has shaped the careers and lives of many in Hollywood. This episode not only offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of some of your favorite films but also highlights how David Ayer serves as a connecting thread for many of the show's guests. Join us as we explore the raw beauty of storytelling, the challenges of the industry, and the bonds formed during the collaborative creative process.
