The Big Picture 'Barbarian'!!!
5 snips
Sep 13, 2022 
Chris Ryan, a writer at The Ringer, joins Zach Cregger, the director of the horror film 'Barbarian,' to dissect its surprising success and genre subversions. They delve into unforgettable moments like the eerie atmosphere of the Airbnb and the shocking plot twists that challenge audience expectations. Cregger shares his journey from comedy to horror, details his innovative directing techniques, and discusses the balance of humor and fear. The conversation reveals insights on toxic masculinity and societal fears, all while praising the film's distinct style.
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Garage-Born Movie Idea
- Zach Cregger wrote Barbarian alone in his garage as a private creative exercise before it became a film.
- He followed ideas instinctively and only later realized the script could be a movie after it kept surprising him.
Casting And Tone As Subversion
- Barbarian intentionally wrong-foots casting and tone to challenge viewer expectations.
- The film uses those reversals to critique toxic masculinity, gentrification, and systemic abuse beneath horror tropes.
Early Feature Failure Shaped Approach
- Zach recounts an early career failure on a compromised feature that left him demoralized for years.
- That experience taught him to be true to his vision when making Barbarian.