Lawyers, Guns & Money LGM Podcast: The Magic Hours
Feb 25, 2025
John Bleasdale, a film scholar and author of 'The Magic Hours: The Films and Hidden Life of Terrence Malick,' dives deep into the enigmatic filmmaker’s journey. The discussion highlights Malick's fascinating early life and his iconic works like 'Badlands' and 'Days of Heaven.' They explore the challenges of researching a reclusive figure, the nuances of his cinematic style, and how personal experiences shape his narratives. Bleasdale also sheds light on the complexities of film production, touching on themes of religious storytelling and the delicate balance of sincerity in cinema.
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Bleasdale's Introduction to Malick
- John Bleasdale first encountered Malick's films through a BBC2 show called Movie Drone, hosted by Alex Cox.
- Cox's intrigue about Malick's mysterious absence after two acclaimed films sparked Bleasdale's interest.
Malick's Academic Prowess
- Malick excelled academically, winning awards throughout high school and impressing professors at Harvard, including Stanley Cavell.
- Cavell, a philosophy professor interested in film, saw cinema as a serious tool for studying philosophy and politics.
Malick's Diverse Career Path
- Malick's early jobs included philosophy teacher, journalist (covering Che Guevara's death), and screenwriter.
- His friend, Jacob Brackman, got him into AFI, where he wrote scripts for films like Dirty Harry.
