Joel Coen, a renowned director, discusses his experiences in filmmaking, from starting as a teenager to working on independent movies. They talk about financing their first movie and maintaining creative control. The collaborative nature of filmmaking and the importance of collaboration are emphasized. They also discuss the control and mastery of a director, challenging filming conditions, working with actors, and retaining passion for work.
Having creative control over projects has been a fundamental principle for Joel Coen throughout his career.
Joel Coen's passion for filmmaking was shaped by a wide variety of films, ranging from sophisticated European films to commercial movies.
In the editing process, having a strong instinct for what is needed in a scene allows for creative problem-solving, even if it means missing a few shots.
Deep dives
Joel Cohen's Journey into Filmmaking
Joel Cohen recalls his early days of making films with his brother on super 8 cameras and how it shaped his approach to filmmaking. They transitioned from making small independent movies to financing their own projects, ultimately leading to their first movie, 'Blood Simple'.
Maintaining Creative Control
Joel Cohen discusses the importance of having creative control over their projects. He explains how their early independent filmmaking path allowed them to have final cut and complete freedom in their movie production. This control over the creative process has been a principle they have adhered to throughout their career.
Influence and Inspiration for Filmmaking
Joel Cohen reflects on the films and influences that shaped his passion for filmmaking. Growing up, he watched a wide variety of films on television, ranging from sophisticated European films to commercial movies. This eclectic mix of genres and styles influenced his approach to storytelling and his desire to explore different cinematic expressions.
The Power of Minimal Coverage in Filmmaking
The podcast discusses the importance of minimal coverage in filmmaking. The speaker shares how sometimes they would realize they didn't have enough shots or angles during the editing process. However, they emphasize that having a strong instinct for what is needed in a scene, even if it means missing a few shots, allows for creative problem-solving in the editing room. They emphasize the importance of closely examining the footage and allowing it to guide the editing decisions. The speaker also mentions instances where additional shots were later filmed to enhance the scene.
The Influence of Great Filmmakers
The podcast explores the influence of great filmmakers and the impact they have on the understanding and appreciation of the craft. The speaker mentions iconic directors like Kurosawa, Hitchcock, and Fellini, who each brought unique approaches to storytelling and visual style. They discuss how these filmmakers were able to infuse drama, formality, and humor into their movies, respectively. The speaker also reflects on their changing perceptions of filmmakers like John Ford and Orson Welles, whom they initially didn't appreciate but grew to admire as they gained a deeper understanding of their work. In terms of contemporary filmmakers, the speaker praises the Russian filmmaker Andrei Tarkovsky for his mastery of the medium and his ability to create unexpected moments through control and rhythm.
Here’s the episode you’ve all been waiting for! Team Deakins sits down with long time collaborator, director Joel Coen (TRUE GRIT, NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN, FARGO, INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS). A great conversation that covers aspects of their experiences together as well as the importance of collaboration and letting go of defensiveness. Of course we talk about storyboards and their place in the process as well as the power of editing. We talk about the importance of casting and the way he works with actors. As well as the fact that not having a large budget can be a blessing. Joel is an incredible filmmaker and it’s amazing to hear him speak on the craft of making films. Be sure not to miss this one!
RECOMMENDED EPISODE VIEWING: True Grit (2010), The Man Who Wasn’t There (2001)
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