Welcome to Matt's Movie Reviews Saturday Conversation Show, an interview series focusing on entertainment personalities, content creators, and filmmakers. Today's guest is Bill Fishman, known for cult classics like Tape Heads and My Dinner with Jimmy, and music videos for bands like the Ramones and Suicidal Tendencies. His latest film, Walting with Brando, explores architect Bernard Judge's creation of a paradise on Tahiti for Marlon Brando, available in US cinemas from September 19.
Bill Fishman discussed the excitement of bringing the story to the big screen, highlighting the grandeur of Tahiti as shown in the film, shot on location without CGI. He noted its representation of the meeting of different worldviews between Bernard Judge and Brando.
The interview also covered Fishman's influences, mentioning movies like Barry Lyndon, and directors Stanley Kubrick and Woody Allen. Fishman's career journey included starting with music videos during MTV's rise when videos were essential for band success. He recalled experiences with artists like Christopher Walken and Sean Penn during his early filmmaking days.
Closing the interview, Fishman played a game of 'Choose Between Two,' revealing his preference for practical effects over CGI and his nostalgic view of New York film settings. As a director, he admires Brando's dedication to authenticity and discussed the challenge of achieving similar artistry in the contemporary film industry.
Fishman's Walting with Brando offers a cinematic experience that draws audiences into the beautiful visuals of Tahiti and reflects on the intriguing interpersonal dynamics of its subjects.
