What was it about the riverboat casinos in Iowa that compelled you to write this story?
It was really interesting to see the anti-glamorous version of a casino. There was a story in there somewhere that we hadn’t seen on film before.
Features: Q&A
The Martian – Q&A with Ridley Scott
by The National Board of Review
You used classic filmmaking techniques, especially in the opening scene. Can you talk about shooting it?
Scott: These storms are absolutely disgustingly filthy, and we had real fifth in the air. You have a real mix of dust.
September 28, 2015
99 Homes – Q&A with Ramin Bahrani and Michael Shannon
by The National Board of Review
How did you come to this story, and what was the writing process?
Bahrani: I was interested in this whole world-turned-upside-down issue during the economic crisis. The focus was housing.
September 22, 2015
Sicario – Q&A with Denis Villeneuve, Benicio Del Toro, Josh Brolin, Emily Blunt, and Roger Deakins
by The National Board of Review
There have been other stories about the cartels and the drug war. Why did you want to tell this particular story?
Denis Villeneuve: For me it’s not a movie about cartels. I don’t think anyone will learn new things about cartels from this film.
August 20, 2015
Grandma – Q&A with Lily Tomlin, Sam Elliott, Laverne Cox, Julia Garner, and Paul Weitz
by The National Board of Review
Mr. Weitz, did you write this role for Ms. Tomlin knowing she’d play the part?
Paul Weitz: Yes, I— well, no, I didn’t know she’d play the part!