IndieWire's Filmmaker Toolkit

Oscar-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, known for his unique blend of monsters and fairy tales, discusses his dream project, 'Frankenstein.' He reveals its deep connections to his previous works and the personal significance tied to his father and Catholic upbringing. Del Toro shares insights into the creation of a new type of creature, casting choices, and finding expressive movement through Butoh training. He also reflects on the film’s narrative structure and visual language, striving for a balance of romance and brutality while crafting a tactile cinematic experience.

Yorgos Lanthimos, the acclaimed director known for his unique storytelling in films like 'The Favourite' and 'Dogtooth', dives into his latest work, 'Bugonia'. He shares how a script from Ari Aster caught his attention and explains the political undertones of the film. Yorgos discusses maintaining visceral tension in a confined setting, the decision to cast a non-professional neurodivergent actor, and the impactful choice of a Green Day song for a pivotal scene. His insights into collaboration with Emma Stone and his editor reveal the intricacies of his creative process.

Writer and director Nia DaCosta joins IndieWire's Sarah Shachat to dive deep into her 1950s-set adaptation of Hedda Gabler. DaCosta explains how the film's lush look and sound came from years of building her team, and how the brilliance of the lead performances from Tessa Thompson and Nina Hoss allowed for incredibly layered character studies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Director Scott Cooper sat down for a revealing and personal conversation about helming this anticipated and highly scrutinized biopic. Cooper talks about Bruce Springsteen's intense involvement in the film, making a movie that felt as raw as Nebraska sounds, and how telling this story from The Boss's life helped him process his own. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An IndieWire favorite, director Kelly Reichardt returns to Toolkit with her new film The Mastermind. Reichardt told us about working with Josh O'Connor, putting her own spin on the heist genre, and the cast-and-crew road trip it took to get the movie made. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brad Ingelsby, the creator and writer of the HBO series Task, dives into the intricate psychology of his characters and the show's seven-episode arc. He discusses how Mark Ruffalo's physical choices shaped his character and how Tom Pelphrey's audition brought Robbie's hopeful energy to life. Exploring inspirations like Michael Mann's Heat, Brad shares insights on emotional stakes in pivotal scenes and the importance of authentic portrayals, especially in biker culture. His creative approach emphasizes character depth and landscape, ensuring an engaging experience.

The creator of 'Reservation Dogs' is back with a new series staring Ethan Hawke as a man investigating crimes and corruption in Oklahoma. Sterlin shared some of the noir stories that inspired him, and explains why he never wants to leave Oklahoma for Hollywood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Director Derek Cianfrance joins IndieWire’s Jim Hemphill to talk about his latest film, “Roofman.” A true story about an escaped criminal who hides out in an abandoned toy store, “Roofman” is a comedy — and thus a departure for the typically serious Cianfrance. He talks about how and why he wanted to make this movie at this moment, and explains the many benefits of shooting on film. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who's a good boy? Indy, the star of this new horror film told entirely from his point of view. Director Ben Leonberg brought Indy into the office for a fun chat about filming a movie in his own home for 3 years, usually about 17 inches off the ground. Listen for how Ben used clever filmmaking to craft a great performance from of a dog who doesn't know he's an actor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In his solo directorial debut after making 'Good Time' and 'Uncut Gems' with his brother Josh, Benny Safdie pushed his signature chaotic style to a deeper, more personal place. From his rigorous authenticity in the ring, shooting the relationship with the same style as the fights, and convincing The Rock of all people to gain muscle, you'll want to hear how Benny went all out for this larger than life true story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices