JRE #2053 – Danny & Michael Philippou

by

27-Oct-23




Major Topics

This podcast focuses on Danny and Michael Philippou, the directors of the horror film “Talk to Me,” diving into their creative journey, their unconventional approaches to filmmaking, and their fascination with pushing boundaries. It also features some provocative and viral elements, such as their history of stunt work and their drug trial experiences. Underlying themes explore the power of collaboration, the challenges of navigating the film industry, and the search for authenticity in the digital age.

1. The Origins of “Talk to Me”:

  • The Philippou brothers’ passion for filmmaking started at a young age, manifesting in backyard wrestling and elaborate movie productions with their friends.
  • They launched a YouTube channel that went viral, initially focused on fake fail videos and stunts, showcasing their creative energy and knack for attention-grabbing content.
  • The inspiration for “Talk to Me” stemmed from a disturbing real-life incident involving a neighbor who suffered a negative reaction to drugs, coupled with Daly Pearson’s comedic horror short about kids using possession for fun.
  • Despite initial rejections from Hollywood studios, the Philippous secured funding through independent producers, ultimately resulting in the successful release of “Talk to Me” through A24.

2. The YouTube Influence:

  • The Philippou brothers’ YouTube channel served as a proving ground for their filmmaking talents, providing an opportunity to experiment with stunts, special effects, and storytelling.
  • They honed their ability to create compelling content and capture an audience’s attention, but also learned the limitations of the platform in terms of expressing more nuanced narratives.
  • The YouTube experience provided practical knowledge and skills that proved valuable on the set of “Talk to Me,” allowing them to adapt and improvise in challenging situations.
  • While YouTube helped them build a following and gain attention, it also led to a stigma associated with being YouTubers, which they had to overcome when pursuing a traditional filmmaking career.

3. Drug Trial Experience:

  • Danny Philippou spent two years participating in medical trials, testing experimental drugs that were not yet on the market.
  • He describes his experience as a “guinea pig,” highlighting the potential risks and questionable ethics of the trials, while also acknowledging the financial benefits.
  • Danny’s drug trial experiences, while potentially dangerous, provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of pharmaceutical research and the human cost of innovation.
  • He also discusses the psychological aspects of the trials, specifically how the lack of distractions and isolation can be beneficial for creative work, a point he intends to revisit in the future.

4. Extreme Stunt Work:

  • Michael Philippou is a certified stuntman in Australia, with a history of performing dangerous stunts, including getting hit by cars numerous times.
  • He describes his approach to stunt work as different from traditional stunt performers, often pushing the limits and embracing a sense of danger and excitement.
  • The Philippou brothers’ experience with stunts and practical effects, cultivated on YouTube, translates seamlessly to their filmmaking, enhancing the authenticity and visceral impact of their work.
  • Michael emphasizes the importance of practical stunts over CGI, arguing that they create a more genuine and engaging experience for the audience, drawing a parallel with the “uncanny valley” effect.

5. The “Talk to Me” Production Process:

  • The Philippou brothers co-wrote the script for “Talk to Me” with Bill Hinsman, collaborating on a fast-paced and collaborative writing process.
  • They faced challenges in securing funding and getting the film greenlit due to their YouTube background and the unconventional nature of the script.
  • The production faced a tight budget and a compressed shooting schedule, often requiring them to improvise and shoot sequences quickly, making use of their YouTube experience.
  • The film’s success, both critically and commercially, is attributed to a combination of factors, including the original concept, strong performances, and effective marketing strategies.

6. Exploring the Supernatural:

  • The Philippou brothers discuss their interest in the supernatural, fueled by personal experiences and their fascination with the power of suggestion.
  • Danny recounts his encounters with psychics and mediums, expressing skepticism while acknowledging the possibility of genuine paranormal activity.
  • They discuss the role of mental perception and the impact of belief systems on experiences, drawing parallels to the themes of “Talk to Me” and the manipulation of the human mind.
  • They also highlight the ethical considerations surrounding psychics and mediums, particularly the prevalence of fraud and the potential for exploitation.

7. The Sequel and Future Projects:

  • The Philippou brothers are already working on a sequel to “Talk to Me,” exploring both the continuation of the existing characters and a new story with different characters in a different country.
  • They are also developing a film adaptation of the Street Fighter video game, immersing themselves in the world of martial arts and drawing inspiration from real-life fighters.
  • Their creative energy and diverse interests extend beyond horror, as evidenced by their documentary about deathmatch wrestling, showcasing their fascination with extreme performance art and the human drive to push boundaries.
  • They are committed to maintaining creative control over their projects, recognizing the potential pitfalls of studio interference and the importance of authenticity and artistic integrity.

8. ADHD and Sleep Issues:

  • Danny Philippou discusses his struggles with ADHD and sleep disorders, acknowledging the challenges they present in terms of focus, energy management, and daily routines.
  • He describes his experiences with various sleep studies and diagnoses, highlighting the complexities of managing these conditions and the constant search for effective treatment options.
  • He attributes his high level of productivity and creative energy to his ADHD, showcasing both the advantages and disadvantages of living with the condition.
  • The discussion of ADHD and sleep issues provides a relatable and honest perspective on these conditions, normalizing the challenges they present and the impact they have on daily life.

9. The Future of Filmmaking:

  • The Philippou brothers discuss the potential impact of AI on filmmaking, acknowledging both the opportunities and challenges it presents.
  • They express concern about the potential loss of human creativity and individuality in the face of AI-generated content, emphasizing the importance of stories that stem from personal experiences and emotions.
  • They acknowledge the advancements in CGI and virtual production technologies, but remain committed to practical filmmaking and the value of real-world experiences.
  • The discussion of AI highlights the evolving landscape of filmmaking and the ongoing debate about the role of technology in storytelling.

10. The World of Combat Sports:

  • The Philippou brothers discuss their deep connection to the world of combat sports, specifically martial arts and UFC.
  • They share personal anecdotes about their training experiences and their involvement in the sport, showcasing their passion and understanding of the discipline.
  • They discuss the psychological aspects of fighting, particularly the intensity, risk, and emotional investment involved, drawing parallels to their own experiences in stunt work and filmmaking.
  • They also express their opinions on specific fighters and events, providing insights into the dynamics of the combat sports world and their appreciation for the dedication and athleticism of these athletes.

Memorable Quotes

  • “We’re artists. We’re just artists dude. We’re artists.” – Danny Philippou emphasizes their artistic vision and their commitment to creative expression.
  • “I feel like if you were going to fight Bruce Buffer, that would sell really well.” – Joe Rogan playfully suggests a potential fight between him and the UFC announcer, highlighting the appeal of unexpected matchups.
  • “It was the most painful experience because it was the first time we were going to be exposed to critics and harsh critics, Sundance and things like that.” – Danny Philippou describes the anxiety and pressure of premiering their film at Sundance.
  • “If you open your mind up to her, I feel like even if it’s not happening, you will kind of think that it is in your mind.” – Michael Philippou reflects on the power of suggestion and how belief systems can influence experiences.
  • “The closer you get to death, the more alive you feel Joe.” – Michael Philippou offers a provocative perspective on the allure of danger and the connection between risk and a sense of vitality.


 

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