The Curious Case of Benjamin Button with Richard Lawson
Oct 22, 2023
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Vanity Fair's Richard Lawson joins the podcast to discuss 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button'. They explore topics such as the differences between the short story and the film adaptation, attending New York Fashion Week, the making of the movie 'Mech', creating the character of Benjamin Button, spooky movie recommendations, the relationship dynamics in the film, body doubles, the length of the movie, Benjamin Button's life as a tugboat captain, his first love affair, and the career struggles of the director.
The movie explores the power of memories and how they shape our understanding of the past.
The film delves into the themes of aging and mortality, highlighting the inevitability of death and the passing of time.
While Benjamin Button may be the central character, the movie focuses more on the impact he has on the lives of those around him.
As the characters witness Benjamin's unconventional life, they confront their own fears, desires, and regrets.
Benjamin works on a tugboat and forms a bond with the captain, experiencing a life of high adventure and excitement.
The film explores themes of missed opportunities and regret as some characters are burdened by the things they didn't do or the things that didn't happen for them.
Deep dives
The Emotional Impact of Memories
The movie explores the power of memories and how they shape our understanding of the past. Through Julia Ormond's character, we see the emotional journey of trying to make sense of her mother and father's lives through their diaries.
The Concept of Aging and Mortality
The film delves into the themes of aging and mortality, highlighting the inevitability of death and the passing of time. Benjamin Button's unique case of aging in reverse allows the audience to reflect on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of embracing every moment.
The Importance of Emotional Connections
While Benjamin Button may be the central character, the movie focuses more on the impact he has on the lives of those around him. It emphasizes the power of emotional connections and how they can transform and shape our lives.
The Transformation of Perspectives
As the characters witness Benjamin's unconventional life, they confront their own fears, desires, and regrets. The movie prompts us to reconsider our own perspectives on aging, time, and the meaning of a truly fulfilling life.
Meeting Daisy
Benjamin Button meets Daisy and they form a connection. Despite not being destined for each other, they make a non-verbal promise to each other.
Life on Tugboat
Benjamin works on a tugboat and forms a bond with the captain, experiencing a life of high adventure and excitement.
Tilda Swinton's Character
Tilda Swinton plays Elizabeth Abbott, a woman with a tragic past who has a brief love affair with Benjamin.
Missed Opportunities
The movie explores the theme of missed opportunities and regret as some characters are burdened by the things they didn't do or the things that didn't happen for them.
Main Idea 1
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a film that centers around a man who ages in reverse, starting as an old man and becoming younger as time goes on.
Main Idea 2
The film explores themes of mortality, time, and the significance of the choices we make in life.
Main Idea 3
The relationship between Benjamin Button and Daisy becomes a focal point of the film, as they navigate the challenges of their unconventional circumstances.
Main Idea 4
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a visually stunning film, with impressive visual effects and cinematography that bring the story to life.
2007’s THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON is a film that dares to ask the question, “What if he baby but old?” Despite the meme-ification of David Fincher’s trip to the uncanny valley, we are pleased to make our belated case for why this movie is GOOD, actually, and in step with the themes of Da Finch Man’s body of work - not a sappy outlier. Vanity Fair’s Richard Lawson returns to the podcast as we all grapple with mortality, wistfully opine about tugboats, and develop an absurd running bit about late character actor Orson Bean (who is not in this movie). Did you know Producer Ben has been struck by lightning seven times?
