Team Deakins

SEASON 2 - EPISODE 150 - A LOOK AT TWO INSPIRATIONAL FILMS - with Joe Walker - Part 2 In this episode of the Team Deakins Podcast, we finish our two-part conversation with editor Joe Walker (Season 1, Episode 35) about two of our favourite films: Richard Brooks’ IN COLD BLOOD and Jean-Pierre Melville’s ARMY OF SHADOWS. Following the previous episode, we shift our focus towards ARMY OF SHADOWS, contrasting the film’s measured pacing with the rapidity of its violence that punctuates several points in the story. We reflect on the emotional effect of the movie’s unique sense of rhythm and handmade nature, and we discuss the use (and absence) of music throughout the film. We also reflect on the film’s near-lack of inserts and intimacy, and we share how the film successfully adapts the essence of the book from which it is based despite making several story changes. Roger was in college at the time of both films’ theatrical runs, and he shares what it was like watching them with contemporary audiences. Later, Joe reveals why he and director Denis Villeneuve (Season 1, Episode 25) vary their film diet and watch “slower” films such as ARMY OF SHADOWS to refresh their brains, and Joe observes that fisherman make great camera operators. - Recommended Viewing: IN COLD BLOOD (1967), ARMY OF SHADOWS (1969) - This episode is sponsored by Barco & Aputure

SEASON 2 - EPISODE 149 - A LOOK AT TWO INSPIRATIONAL FILMS - with Joe Walker - Part 1 In this episode of the Team Deakins Podcast, editor Joe Walker (Season 1, Episode 35) returns for the first half of a two-part discussion about the filmmaking behind two of our favourite films: Richard Brooks’ IN COLD BLOOD and Jean-Pierre Melville’s ARMY OF SHADOWS. The films may contrast in their expression of cinematic storytelling with each other and with films made today, but we find, over the course of these two episodes, that both films share and build on the fundamental elements of what makes a movie, a movie. This episode focuses on IN COLD BLOOD, and we discuss how the film frequently subverts expectations through its structure, cinematography, and editing. Joe also breaks down composer Quincy Jones’ evocative score, and he reveals how the film radically flew in the face of a soon-to-be-abandoned Hays Code. Additionally, we look at the innovations in filmmaking technologies and techniques from cinema’s youth to the 1960s, and Joe presents his theory of the 30-year-cycle of evolution in the film industry. Plus, we take a moment to consider the links between Soviet propaganda’s understanding of montage and the modern analytics and algorithms that manipulate how images are presented on the internet today.  - Recommended Viewing: IN COLD BLOOD (1967), ARMY OF SHADOWS (1969) - This episode is sponsored by Aputure & Barco

In this conversation with Paula McGann, a film producer known for her impressive work on films like 1917 and Darkest Hour, she shares the complexities of bringing a film together. She discusses navigating a turbulent industry, the essential role of mentorship, and the challenges of managing budgets and schedules. Paula recounts a story of resilience when a project was pulled from her, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and determination in filmmaking. Listeners get a deep dive into the realities of independent filmmaking, networking, and maintaining creative vision amidst investor demands.

David Mullen, acclaimed cinematographer known for his work on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and States of Tara, dives deep into the artistry behind 'True Grit'. He discusses the challenges of filming a river scene using innovative techniques and the unique visual storytelling of westerns. Mullen shares insights on lighting, particularly when working with child actors, and reflects on the impact of aspect ratios in the genre. The conversation is filled with anecdotes and thoughts on creative flexibility, film stocks, and the memorable dialogue that brought the script to life.

Matthew Specktor, an author celebrated for his memoir, THE GOLDEN HOUR, dives deep into the world of Hollywood, shaped by his father, a legendary talent agent. He shares candid reflections on the cinematic shifts from creative storytelling to profit-driven blockbusters. Matthew explores the allure and grit of the film industry, revealing personal anecdotes that uncover the struggles behind the glamour. He also contrasts the evolving narrative forms in film and television, highlighting the impact of streaming on storytelling.

Cinematographer Steve Yedlin, renowned for his work on films like Looper and Knives Out, dives into the intricacies of deliverables and preserving authorial intent in post-production. He highlights the challenges filmmakers face in maintaining their artistic vision amidst evolving technologies and color spaces. Steve also sheds light on the differences between SDR and HDR imaging, emphasizing the importance of calibration for optimal visual experiences. Plus, he shares insights on the economic realities of film restoration and offers valuable advice for filmmakers navigating the technical jargon.

Philip Barantini, a director known for his work on 'Boiling Point' and 'Adolescence', shares his inspiring journey from acting to directing. He discusses the challenges of filming a one-take movie during the COVID-19 pandemic and the meticulous planning required for such a project. Barantini reflects on his passion for storytelling, the importance of improvisation in empowering actors, and how young talent like Owen Cooper exceeded expectations. He also highlights the influence of renowned filmmakers and the delicate balance between structure and creativity in filmmaking.

Phil Alden Robinson, acclaimed writer and director known for classics like Field of Dreams, shares his journey from journalism to filmmaking. He discusses the chaotic yet collaborative nature of film sets and the emotional toll of directing. Robinson reflects on the balance of artistic vision within the industry's pressures and delves into his experiences directing documentaries in war zones. He also examines the evolution of storytelling, stressing character development over flashy visual effects, making insightful observations for aspiring filmmakers.

SEASON 2 - EPISODE 142 - Michael Shannon - Actor Actor Michael Shannon (THE BIKERIDERS, GEORGE & TAMMY, MAN OF STEEL) joins us in this episode of the Team Deakins Podcast. We worked with Michael on REVOLUTIONARY ROAD, and we had a wonderful time catching up with him. Michael shares how he first stumbled into acting, which early-career play of his took him from a tiny theatre in Chicago to the West End and Off-Broadway, and why the experience of actors coming up today is so unlike his own. We also discuss his longtime collaborative relationship with director Jeff Nichols (Season 1, Episode 28), and we reflect on his penchant for projects concerning the end of the world. We also discuss his work in TAKE SHELTER, and we learn how Michael coped with sleeping in an abandoned building during the shoot. Throughout the conversation, Michael shares his opinions on rehearsing, remaining in character after a long day, and repetitive takes, and after learning Michael just directed his first film, we ask if his perspective as an actor has changed at all. - Recommended Viewing: TAKE SHELTER - This episode is sponsored by Profoto & Aputure

SEASON 2 - EPISODE 141 - DP & VFX Relationship - with Greig Fraser & Paul Lambert In this episode of the Team Deakins Podcast, cinematographer Greig Fraser (Season 1, Episodes 29, 57, 63, 69 & Season 2, Episodes 50, 51, 100) and VFX supervisor Paul Lambert (Season 1, Episode 107) return to talk about the modern relationship between the cinematography and visual effects departments. Throughout the episode, we frequently refer to Paul’s and Greig’s collaboration on both DUNE films, and they reveal how they realized several scenes and overcame the endless challenges of shooting the film with the support of one another. They share why they utilized painted backings to assist in set extension over blue screens or LED walls, and we later swap strategies for figuring out how to maintain the illusion of a flying helicopter. Greig also reveals what makes him proud about a particular all-CG shot in DUNE: PART II, and Paul breaks down what an audience really means when they see “bad CGI” in a film. Towards the end, we discuss the merging of animation and live-action filmmaking, and we look ahead to what the future may bring. - Recommended Viewing: DUNE (2021), DUNE: PART II (2024) - This episode is sponsored by Aputure & Profoto