Acclaimed director John Woo expresses his disdain for superhero movies and his preference for “real” films, citing Martin Scorsese as a major influence.
John Woo, the renowned director behind action-packed films like “Face/Off” and “Bullet in the Head,” recently revealed his aversion to superhero movies in an interview with The New Yorker. Woo expressed his preference for “real” cinema, particularly films by legendary director Martin Scorsese. Despite his success in the action genre, Woo has always been drawn to more traditional storytelling and is excited about his latest project, “Silent Night,” which marks his return to Hollywood after a two-decade hiatus.
1: Woo’s Disinterest in Superhero Movies
In the interview, Woo candidly admitted that he has never been a fan of movies with extensive special effects or those based on comic books. He stated that he finds more value in films that offer a deeper exploration of human experiences, like those crafted by Martin Scorsese. Woo’s preference for “real” cinema reflects his desire for storytelling that goes beyond the spectacle of special effects and embraces the art of filmmaking.
2: Woo’s Admiration for Martin Scorsese
Woo’s admiration for Martin Scorsese is evident in his choice of films and the influence Scorsese has had on his own work. Woo revealed that his film “Bullet in the Head” was an homage to Scorsese’s “Mean Streets,” a film that had a profound impact on him. Woo appreciates Scorsese’s ability to create compelling narratives that delve into the complexities of human nature, making him gravitate towards Scorsese’s films over superhero blockbusters.
3: Woo’s Return to Hollywood with “Silent Night”
After a 20-year absence from Hollywood, Woo is making a comeback with his latest film, “Silent Night.” Produced by Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee, the film is a dialogue-free project that allows Woo to showcase his storytelling skills visually. Woo expressed his excitement about the project, emphasizing his passion for finding good stories and his belief that “Silent Night” aligns perfectly with his artistic vision. Despite facing challenges in finding financing for the types of movies he wants to make, Woo is determined to continue creating diverse and engaging films.
4: Woo’s Future Projects
Looking ahead, Woo expressed his desire to explore different genres and continue making films in Hollywood. He mentioned his interest in creating a musical or a Western, genres that have become less popular in recent years. Woo’s willingness to push boundaries and his commitment to storytelling demonstrate his versatility as a filmmaker.
Conclusion:
John Woo’s aversion to superhero movies and his preference for “real” cinema, exemplified by his admiration for Martin Scorsese, highlight his commitment to storytelling and his desire to create films that resonate on a deeper level. With his return to Hollywood through “Silent Night,” Woo aims to showcase his visual storytelling skills and continue making diverse and engaging films. As he looks to the future, Woo remains determined to explore different genres and leave his mark on the industry.
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