Yeah, I’m completely spoiled (laughing). It’s all downhill from here, isn’t it?
Getting back to something you said earlier, you said you didn’t expect people to think this film was controversial. Has there been any other reaction you didn’t expect?
I think that’s really the big one. I think, as we’ve mentioned earlier about how it’s polarizing people, some of it is the subject matter which people can’t get past, but it’s sort of sad to me that sincerity is not a virtue, you know? That being earnest in your storytelling and trying to tell a story that means something in an earnest way isn’t appreciated. People, particularly critics, sort of prefer an ironic distance and not getting emotionally close to characters who are asking difficult questions about human nature. We prefer to sort of stand off by the side and laugh at people than really get into the midst and feel what they are feeling. I think that’s been sort of a sad surprise that that is one thing behind some of the motivations.
Teen violence has been approached in films before but there’s almost always something that can be blamed – worshipping Nazis or the devil or being picked on in school. Is it frustrating to you to see that out there, when you’re take is probably more realistic than most films when it comes to teen violence?
It is, but then I look at a film like “Elephant,” which I think is a brilliant, brilliant movie. There was a film that did have the spotlight cast on it at Cannes and then here it didn’t have much of a release, but I think people are aware of it. There’s one of our great American directors getting in there and telling a story and exploring some of the similar themes and ideas. There isn’t a why and there’s no quick answer. It kind of tantalizes you with maybe it’s this, maybe it’s that, but it’s really none of those things. That was really encouraging. That was the last film I’ve seen that’s sort of dealt with this subject matter. I felt like that was something to live up to.
When you start off your career with something this polarizing, something that touches on a subject that we don’t see much in films – at least not done well in films – is there a feeling that you have to live up to that standard? Or do you feel like now you can do what you want to do?
It’s hard because I’m aware the bar is set [at different levels] depending on who you are talking to. There are some people who, after this film, think the bar is very low so it can only get better (laughing). I don’t know. The next thing I want to do is something I care about a lot and it’s not as controversial. But then I didn’t think “Leland” was controversial. It’s something that I really, really care about and I want wake up every day in the next three years thinking about and working on and collaborating with people on. I think that’s all you can do is sort of trust your own instincts.
What’s the subject matter of your next film?
It’s top secret.
I hate those type of projects!
It has a lighter tone and it is a little bit more playful.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Interview with Ryan Gosling
Chris Klein and Jena Malone Interview
"The United States of Leland" Photos, Credits, and Movie News
