THOUGHTS . ARE . DEEP
Director: Edouard Salier
Original Interview in: Promo News
I know what you’re thinking, ‘we’ve done this already’, well yeah and with a cheeky little write-up too but now with an interview…
word is cheap: This is unlike any previous Metronomy project, how did the project come about?
Edouard Salier: Metronomy had decided they wanted to do a video in space and so that’s where it all began. It was a very classic production process. I worked in collaboration with Joseph Mount from Metronomy, our production companies Somesuch and Co, Iconoclast and with Lee Groombridge my producer, as well as the rest of the team we assembled. We went from storyboards, to working with the production designer on creating sets and backdrops. Everything was done in the old-school fashion. What we wanted to achieve was a really classic film style so we worked in that classic production process in hopes of having the end product reflect the means by which it was made.
You often utilise CGI to great effect, what did you like about working with projections and in-camera FX? How keen are you to keep working in this style or are you looking forward to getting back to 3D animation?
Every time I do a project I try to find new techniques to work with. The projection and in-camera FX really lent themselves to this video and the way Metronomy wanted to work. They didn’t want another CG, 3D, computer animation video. I’m always open to different ways of shooting and will continue to do animation, 3D, and in-camera among other techniques where they work best.
You mention the cats were a nightmare to work with, has this put you off working with animals again?
It was a nightmare but working with animals always is. We always end up getting what we want which is fun so it hasn’t put me off.
What do the cosmos mean to you personally, are you a believer in their messages?
I am pretty fascinated with our earthly condition, on this little blue ball in an infinite cosmos. Clearly, it speaks to me.
Much like star signs each person could interpret this promo differently, is there a definitive storyline in your head?
There is a definite story in my head that I will never share. What’s important to me is that each person comes up with their own interpretation. I am not a narrative dictator. I like that each person forms their own story by projecting themselves onto the film. When they say, “Oh I get it, it means this,” I will never tell them they didn’t understand. When you leave it to each person to find meaning, their interpretation becomes as legitimate and personal as your own and I think this leads to the best kind of discussions about film.
WORD IS CHEAP 