Matt Johnson's Chaotic Film School Method

Director Matt Johnson, known for his unique filmmaking style, often likens the creative process to that of a pirate ship or a bustling restaurant kitchen. His films frequently center on the theme of young men attempting to create movies, reflecting his own experiences in film school.

Johnson's recent film, "Tony," presented a distinct challenge. Unlike his previous works, which heavily relied on improvisation and a pseudodocumentary approach, "Tony" required a more structured narrative rooted in performance.

This new direction involved stepping outside his comfort zone and embracing a filmmaking style that Johnson found limiting but ultimately rewarding. He collaborated closely with cinematographer Michael Bauman to achieve a storybook-like visual quality.

Johnson acknowledges his struggle with planned scenes executed perfectly, preferring the discovery of unexpected moments during production. He finds inspiration in filmmakers like Josh Safdie, who successfully transfer enthusiasm to their crews and maintain their distinct vision on larger projects.

Looking ahead, Johnson is developing "Magic: The Gathering" into a potential studio trilogy, a significant scale-up from his previous independent endeavors.