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Acclaimed Producer Schuyler Weiss Shares Insights on the Art of Filmmaking
1 Nov
Summary
- Schuyler Weiss describes the producer's role as a "cartoon sheepdog" protecting the creative endeavor
- Weiss emphasizes the importance of balancing art and commerce in filmmaking
- Weiss discusses his experience working on "Elvis" and the innovative techniques used to capture the musical performances

In a masterclass at the Tokyo International Film Festival's TIFFCOM market, acclaimed producer Schuyler Weiss, who has worked with Baz Luhrmann for approximately 20 years, shared his insights on the role of a producer in the film industry. Weiss described the producer's role as a "sort of cartoon sheepdog, endlessly moving the flock forward together, unrelentingly driven, but always relentlessly positive," emphasizing the protective nature of producing.
Weiss discussed the delicate balance between art and commerce in filmmaking, stating that "you can't have one without the other." He shared his experiences working on the production of "Elvis," including the innovative techniques used to capture the musical performances, such as pre-recording complex arrangements and blending Elvis's original vocals with actor Austin Butler's voice.
Looking ahead, Weiss previewed the upcoming documentary "EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert," which features previously unseen footage from Elvis's concerts between 1970 and 1972. Weiss also discussed Luhrmann's upcoming biopic on Joan of Arc, positioning it as a response to uncertain times in Hollywood and a testament to the power of original storytelling.




