Denis Villeneuve Discusses the Risks of Blade Runner 2049 with Brett Goldstein at BFI London Film Festival
Denis Villeneuve and Brett Goldstein at London's Royal Festival Hall on Saturday. GETTY IMAGES/BFI
At the BFI London Film Festival, Denis Villeneuve reflected on his career in a conversation with Ted Lasso star Brett Goldstein. He described Blade Runner 2049 as one of the riskiest films of his career, initially viewing it as a potential swan song. Villeneuve also touched on his experience with Hollywood, detailing his work on Prisoners, Sicario, and the Dune series, sharing insights into the challenges of large-scale filmmaking.
"I thought, to make a sequel to my favorite film is a beautiful way to end my career," the 'Dune' director told 'Ted Lasso' star Brett Goldstein at a BFI London Film Festival event on Saturday.
At the BFI London Film Festival, director Denis Villeneuve joined actor Brett Goldstein for a 75-minute Screen Talk where the two delved into Villeneuve’s filmography and his journey from smaller productions to large-scale Hollywood films. Villeneuve, known for Arrival, Dune, and Blade Runner 2049, candidly spoke about how Blade Runner 2049 stands out as one of the riskiest films of his career.
Villeneuve explained how the opportunity to direct the sequel to Blade Runner, one of his all-time favorite films, came unexpectedly while working on Prisoners. Initially planned for Ridley Scott, the project shifted to Villeneuve, who felt that making this film would either be a triumph or the perfect way to conclude his career. “I thought it was a beautiful way to end my career,” Villeneuve joked, reflecting on the magnitude of taking on a sequel to such a beloved classic.
Ryan Gosling in ‘Blade Runner 2049’. COURTESY OF WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT
Blade Runner 2049, starring Harrison Ford and Ryan Gosling, presented numerous challenges, yet ultimately succeeded both critically and commercially, grossing over $270 million globally. Villeneuve shared how he had turned down several major sci-fi projects before Blade Runner 2049, but felt ready after Sicario and saw the sequel as an opportunity to push himself creatively.
Villeneuve also discussed his fears when first entering Hollywood, especially with Prisoners, worried it might destroy his filmmaking identity. However, his experience turned out to be far more positive, marking Prisoners as one of the best shooting experiences of his life.
The conversation shifted to Villeneuve’s other successes, including Arrival, Dune, and Dune: Part Two. Villeneuve talked about the immense effort behind world-building, particularly in Dune. He acknowledged the struggles of shooting complex scenes, such as the infamous worm-riding sequence, which took 44 days to complete. Despite challenges, he expressed his gratitude for the ability to reshoot and perfect scenes, allowing him to bring his creative vision to life.
Villeneuve wrapped up by discussing the importance of preparation and resilience in large-scale filmmaking. As for Dune: Part Two, which has earned over $700 million at the box office, he credited the film’s success to meticulous planning and adaptability during production.
The BFI London Film Festival continues until October 20, featuring a wide array of global cinema.
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