SmartLess – “Greta Gerwig”

Intro

In this episode of the “SmartLess” podcast, hosts Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett have a candid and humorous conversation with talented writer and director Greta Gerwig. They discuss her career, influences, and upcoming projects. The hosts also share their own food preferences and habits, as well as their experiences with community theater. Throughout the episode, they sprinkle in some lighthearted banter and jokes.

Main Takeaways

Food and Banter

• The hosts discuss their preferred backgrounds for the recording, with one choosing an ice cream truck image.
• They joke about a new nickname for one of the hosts, “Sweet Tooth”, based on his character in a video game.
• One of the hosts is eating white cheddar cheese its and recommends them to the others.
• They briefly discuss one of the host’s food disorder, which he plays up for comedic effect but clarifies is exaggerated.
• Hosts discuss their food preferences and habits, including a preference for Caesar salad and a dislike of over-dressed salads.

Greta Gerwig’s Background

• Greta Gerwig, a talented writer and director, joins the podcast.
• Gerwig has written 9 movies and received 3 Academy Award nominations.
• She was interested in dance and fencing, and studied philosophy at Barnard College.
• Gerwig was influenced by her dorm mate Kate McKinnon.

Community Theater and Writing

• Greta grew up in Sacramento and participated in community theater, which she found to be the purest form of art she’s ever done.
• Jessica Chastain also participated in community theater in Sacramento.
• Greta discovered playwriting in college and it became an instant passion.
• She started writing by writing sketches for homecoming rallies in high school.

Directing and Filmmaking

• Greta Gerwig’s first feature film that she wrote and directed on her own was Ladybird.
• Directing is uncomfortable and there’s no secret formula to it, but doing it is the only way to learn.
• Some directors are like native speakers of cinema, they understand it in a deep way.
• A good movie is just three great scenes and no bad ones.
• Filmmakers should focus on establishing space and geography to enhance the storytelling experience.

Summary

Food, Banter, and Greta Gerwig

In this episode of “SmartLess,” the hosts start off with some light-hearted banter about their preferred backgrounds for recording and their food preferences. They are joined by the talented writer and director Greta Gerwig, who shares insights into her background, influences, and love for community theater. The hosts promise hard-hitting questions and engage in a candid conversation with Gerwig, discussing her career, writing process, and directing experiences. They also touch upon the importance of establishing space and geography in filmmaking.

Greta Gerwig’s Journey and Filmmaking Insights

Greta Gerwig’s journey from participating in community theater in Sacramento to becoming a renowned writer and director is inspiring. She discovered her passion for playwriting in college and honed her craft by writing sketches for homecoming rallies. Gerwig’s first feature film, Ladybird, showcased her talent as a writer and director. She emphasizes the importance of taking the leap into directing and learning through the process. Gerwig believes that a good movie is defined by three great scenes and highlights the significance of establishing space and geography to enhance storytelling.

Conclusion

This episode of “SmartLess” provides listeners with an entertaining and insightful conversation with Greta Gerwig. From discussing food preferences to exploring Gerwig’s journey in the film industry, the hosts create an engaging and humorous atmosphere. Listeners gain valuable insights into Gerwig’s creative process and the challenges and joys of directing. Overall, this episode is a must-listen for fans of Greta Gerwig and those interested in the world of filmmaking.