Ep 247 - Simon Barrett on Azrael and Crafting Nonverbal Storytelling

Host: Geoffrey D. Calhoun, Author of The Guide For Every Screenwriter
Guest: Simon Barrett, Screenwriter of Azrael, Godzilla X Kong, and You're Next

Summary:
In this episode, Geoffrey sits down with acclaimed screenwriter Simon Barrett, whose latest film Azrael is making waves in the horror genre. Simon shares his journey from small-town Missouri to working on low-budget horror films like Dead Birds and You're Next. The conversation dives deep into Simon’s unique approach to crafting Azrael, a near-silent horror film starring Samara Weaving. They discuss the challenges of writing nonverbal narratives, the importance of world-building, and how Simon drew inspiration from his past nightmares and personal experiences.Takeaways:

• Simon’s unconventional journey from working as a private investigator to becoming a successful screenwriter.
• The creation of the "mumblegore" genre with Adam Wingard and how it influenced their films.
• How Simon used world-building and mythology to shape Azrael’s post-apocalyptic, dialogue-free atmosphere.
• Advice for screenwriters: Focus on creating films that can be produced with available resources to break into the industry.
• The casting of Samara Weaving and her remarkable commitment to her role in Azrael.

Chapters:

• 00:38 – Introduction to Simon Barrett and Azrael
• 01:31 – Simon’s Origin Story: From Missouri to Screenwriting
• 02:50 – Writing Dead Birds and Early Career Struggles
• 03:39 – Creating the Mumblegore Genre and You're Next
• 06:14 – Crafting Azrael: Challenges of a Nonverbal Script
• 09:47 – Writing Action vs. Dialogue and Pacing in Azrael
• 16:08 – Casting Samara Weaving and Her Performance
• 18:46 – Advice for Screenwriters: Writing with Production in Mind
• 24:27 – Azrael: Theatrical Release and Working with Shudder

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