A Fresh Take on “Weapons”
Director Zach Cregger’s film “Weapons” dives into the unsettling landscape of a small town haunted by a dark force. One night, all the kids from a classroom vanish, and the local police, frustrated and powerless, struggle to find any leads. The story weaves through the lives of several characters, including Justine, a teacher played by Julia Garner, and Paul, a cop portrayed by Alden Ehrenreich, as they navigate the mystery and chaos surrounding the disappearance.
Cregger draws inspiration from films like “Magnolia,” aiming for a unique story structure that allows different characters to take center stage without revisiting past scenes. This approach, he believes, enriches the narrative by making each story arc feel complete and final. He notes, “I wanted a novelistic feel where each character has their moment, but once we move on, we don’t go back.”
His journey writing this script was personal. After losing someone close, Cregger found solace in crafting a story that engages with grief and chaos. He candidly states that making “Weapons” hasn’t erased his pain but provided a healthy outlet for his emotions. “I can channel my feelings into writing, rather than letting them overwhelm me,” he explains.
A standout moment in the film features a surreal dream where a giant floating weapon hovers above a house. Cregger appreciates the ambiguity of this scene. “I love that people will interpret it differently,” he shares. Some may see it as critique on gun culture, while others might just find it visually striking.
Humor plays a tricky role amidst the darker themes. Cregger, with his comedy background, ensures that anything funny arises naturally from the story. “Let the situation speak for itself,” he advises, emphasizing that he discards forced jokes during editing.
Despite the film’s violent moments, Cregger managed to retain much of the original content. He feels that modern audiences may be more desensitized, making his film’s violence seem less shocking. He quips about his relentless pursuit to achieve a certain visceral impact in his work, hinting at a playful competition within the genre.
Collaboration has been key to Cregger’s success, particularly with mentor David Fincher, who offered invaluable guidance during post-production. Cregger credits Fincher for broadening his perspective on editing and preparing for shoots. “He taught me to never settle and always seek improvement,” he notes.
As for casting, Cregger handpicked actors who understood the film’s complex tone. He admired Julia Garner’s performance in “The Assistant,” which sealed the deal for her role in “Weapons.” He believes the right actors breathe life into intricate narratives, and he proudly assembled a cast of talents whose versatility enriches the story.
Looking ahead, Cregger hints at future stories, possibly within the world of “Weapons.” He’s also gearing up to direct a new “Resident Evil” film. He aims to capture the tension and pacing that fans of the video games adore, promising a fresh perspective while staying true to the lore.
In an age where stories often mirror societal issues, Cregger’s film explores multiple layers of human experience, making “Weapons” a thought-provoking journey of mystery and reflection. You can find more about the film in a detailed review here.
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David Fincher,Resident Evil,Weapons,Zach Cregger
