Renowned filmmaker Denis Villeneuve, the visionary behind Dune and Blade Runner 2049, holds a strong stance against phone usage on his movie sets. In a recent interview with The Los Angeles Times, Villeneuve expressed his belief that smartphones, while powerful tools, foster compulsive behavior. He likened the constant need to access information, music, or books at our fingertips to a kind of addiction.
However, for Villeneuve, the issue extends beyond mere distraction. To him, filmmaking is an act of shared focus and presence—a collaborative art form that requires undivided attention from all involved. Explaining his decision to ban phones on his sets, he said:
"Cinema is an act of presence... Everybody has to focus and be entirely in the present, listening to each other, being in relationship with each other."
This policy has been in place since Villeneuve’s earliest projects, ensuring that cast and crew remain immersed in the creative process. The ban underscores his belief in the importance of fostering a connected, focused environment.
Standing to Support Creativity
While phones are strictly off-limits, Villeneuve has also addressed another common habit: sitting. During the filming of Dune, Villeneuve and cinematographer Greig Fraser often opted to stand, promoting active engagement. This decision wasn’t about implementing strict rules but about setting an example that encouraged productivity and presence.
A Broader Commentary on Modern Habits
Villeneuve’s approach is not just about improving workflow; it reflects a larger cultural critique. In a world where digital distractions are ubiquitous, his insistence on physical and mental presence is a reminder of the value of shared, undivided attention in creative spaces.
As Villeneuve continues to craft cinematic masterpieces, his methods serve as a call to creators everywhere: sometimes, disconnecting is the key to connecting with art and each other.
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Source: Dark Horizons
Photo Credit: Jan Thijs
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