AFI Fest, which celebrates new and original works in independent film as well as high profile studio releases, ended last week. If you missed it, and therefore have to wait a little longer for the great independent films shown at the fest to hit your local theatre, this 71-minute AFI Fest Indie Contenders Roundtable should keep you occupied and excited about the upcoming titles.
The Hollywood Reporter’s Scott Feinberg recently sat down with some of the most prominent filmmakers in independent cinema, as well as Hollywood stars who choose indies to support smaller, more personal films while being given the freedom to further explore their crafts.
JC Chandor, currently one of our most versatile writer/directors, explains how he decided to pursue his latest film, "A Most Violent Year," while cleaning up his house after Hurricane Sandy. Damien Chazelle, who wrote and directed this year’s surprise critical darling "Whiplash," gives intimate details about filmmakers like himself funding features via short films. “Whiplash” was a popular short before a deal for a feature was struck.
Marion Cotillard talks about the challenges that came with working for the Dardenne Brothers, who cast Cotillard in their latest, “Two Days, One Night." The Dardennes usually cast unknown Belgian actors in their films, and Cotillard mentions that fact didn’t stop her from dreaming of working with the brothers.
Jake Gyllenhaal, who’s receiving some of his career’s best reviews with his intense role in “Nightcrawler," says that the reason he picked the project was simply because it was one of the best screenplays he ever read. Bill Hader, who recently made a successful leap into drama with “The Skeleton Twins," candidly describes the awkwardness he felt while going out for dramatic roles amongst more established dramatic actors.
Michelle Monaghan, who recently starred in the army-themed indie "Fort Bliss," thinks that a good project is worth pursuing, regardless of the budget or format. Considering she was an integral part of last year’s HBO sensation "True Detective," it’s hard not to agree with her.
Kristen Stewart talks up her recent indie "Still Alice," and how much she loved playing Julianne Moore’s daughter.
The most emotional moment, however, occurs when Tilda Swinton talks about her special relationship with Derek Jarman, and how she still can’t wrap her mind around the fact that it’s been 20 years since he passed away. Before his death from AIDS in 1994, Jarman cast Swinton in seven of his films.
Check out the extensive talk below.
