Mike Figgis

Mike Figgis, a renowned filmmaker and director of the documentary Megadoc, takes us behind the scenes of Francis Ford Coppola's ambitious project Megalopolis. He shares how a casual email led to his fly-on-the-wall access, capturing the chaos of on-set dynamics between Coppola's improvisational style and the art department's meticulous planning. Figgis reveals insights into actors' reactions, particularly Shia LaBeouf's perfectionism, and discusses the financial and distribution challenges Megalopolis faced, all while highlighting Coppola's fearless pursuit of his artistic vision.

In this thought-provoking discussion, filmmaker Mike Figgis, known for his explorations of complex themes, joins philosopher Robert Eaglestone to dissect the nature of evil in contemporary society. They tackle whether art has the power to vanquish evil and how a secular culture impacts our understanding of morality. The conversation delves into the banality of evil, illustrating how everyday life intertwines with moral issues, and challenges how artists can effectively portray these subtleties in their work.

Filmmaker Mike Figgis explores the intricate representations of evil, emphasizing how contemporary narratives can shape audience perceptions. Philosopher Robert Eaglestone discusses the moral implications of portraying violence in theater and the responsibilities artists bear. Author Joanna Kavenna reflects on the evolution of shock in art, wondering if real horrors evoke deeper emotional responses compared to fictional tales. They all examine art's role in commenting on historical atrocities and its significance in our understanding of evil.