The Director’s Cut - A DGA Podcast

Jacques Audiard (Emilia Pérez), Sean Baker (Anora), Edward Berger (Conclave), Brady Corbet (The Brutalist) and James Mangold (A Complete Unknown) engage in a conversation with moderator Jeremy Kagan for the 34th Annual DGA Meet the Nominees: Theatrical Feature Film Symposium. Please note: spoilers are included. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://dga.org/en/Events/2025/March2025/MTN_TheatricalFeatureFilm2025

Jacques Audiard (Emilia Pérez), Sean Baker (Anora), Edward Berger (Conclave), Brady Corbet (The Brutalist) and James Mangold (A Complete Unknown) engage in a conversation with moderator Jeremy Kagan for the 34th Annual DGA Meet the Nominees: Theatrical Feature Film Symposium. Please note: spoilers are included. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://dga.org/en/Events/2025/March2025/MTN_TheatricalFeatureFilm2025

Director Drew Hancock discusses his new film, Companion, with fellow Director Rob Savage in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles. In the conversation, he discusses taking inspiration from grounded dramas instead of modern science fiction, working with Actor Sophie Thatcher to establish the feel of the robot character, and his process of discovering shots with his Actors instead of storyboarding parts of the film. The film follows Iris and her boyfriend Josh as they go on a weekend getaway to a remote cabin with a group of friends. When it comes to light that Iris is a companion robot, the vacation unravels into chaos as she goes haywire and exacts revenge. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://dga.org/Events/2025/March2025/Companion_QnA_0225

Director Neil Burger discusses his new film, Inheritance, with fellow Director Sarah Pirozek in a Q&A at the DGA theater in New York. In the conversation, he discusses the technical choices surrounding his decision to shoot the film on an iphone, how he achieved a “stolen” aesthetic by getting authentic hidden shots of his Actors in the real world, and how the blocking and compositional decisions of the film emerged from the limitations imposed by the “stolen” aesthetic. The film tells the story of Maya, who suddenly finds herself at the center of an international conspiracy when she learns that her father was once a spy. In her quest for answers, Maya becomes a target and must travel the globe, mastering her father’s skills and unraveling the mysteries of the past. See photos and a summary of this event below: https://dga.org/en/Events/2025/March2025/Inheritance_QnA_0225

Michael Gracey, known for his innovative films like The Greatest Showman, joins Jason Reitman to discuss his latest project, Better Man. They explore the unique choice of using a CGI monkey to narrate Robbie Williams' story, blending fantasy and reality with emotional depth. Gracey shares insights on the creative challenges of choreographing the Regent Street musical number amidst real-world disruptions. The duo also dives into how music enhances storytelling, showcasing the delicate balance of emotion in film that keeps audiences engaged.

In this engaging discussion, Gia Coppola, a film director celebrated for films like Palo Alto, shares insights about her latest project, The Last Showgirl, with her legendary grandfather, Francis Ford Coppola. They explore the challenges of making the film in just 18 days, emphasizing the importance of actor bonding through unique rehearsal techniques. Gia recounts her journey in casting Pamela Anderson as the lead and how collaboration and playfulness in the creative process can enhance storytelling. The pair also reflect on the intricate relationship between directors and actors.

Shira Piven, a director known for her work on "Welcome to Me" and various TV series, joins fellow director Jade Jenise Dixon to discuss her film, "The Performance." They delve into the challenges of capturing authentic tap dance and the moral complexities of a Jewish tap dancer performing for a Nazi audience in 1930s Berlin. Shira shares insights on collaborating with family, the creative process of adapting a story, and the artistic decisions behind shooting a period piece on a limited budget, blending history and personal experience in her storytelling.

Barry Jenkins, acclaimed director of Moonlight, talks with fellow filmmaker Ben Affleck about his latest project, Mufasa: The Lion King. They delve into the film's emotional roots and how it revives the original classic while exploring themes of loss and connection. Jenkins shares insights on using advanced VFX technology from Avatar and blending live action with animation. He also discusses his commitment to authenticity through collaborating with African artists. Together, they reflect on the intense pressures and creative journeys of filmmaking.

Tyler Perry, a renowned film director known for his impactful works, joins fellow filmmaker J.C. Chandor to discuss his latest project, The Six Triple Eight. Perry reveals the serendipitous moments that shaped the film, including casting Kerry Washington and collaborating with Debbie Allen for choreography. He emphasizes the importance of accurately portraying the all-Black, all-women unit of World War II, their struggles, and contributions, while sharing insights about transforming a former military base into a dynamic film studio, honoring these unsung heroes.

Join director Robert Eggers, known for his chilling films like The Witch, as he dives into the making of Nosferatu in this engaging talk with director Chris Columbus, famed for classics like Home Alone. They explore the unique challenges of shooting in an authentic castle and the meticulous production design that drew from Romanian folklore to bring the creature to life. Eggers shares insights on the collaboration with actor Bill Skarsgård, revealing how they crafted the iconic vampire's haunting presence in this gothic love story. A fascinating behind-the-scenes journey!