Actor and Director Dev Patel is a Leading Man
Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso
Deep Dive
Why did Dev Patel choose to make 'Monkey Man' his directorial debut?
Dev Patel wanted to tell a story inspired by Hindu mythology, specifically the tale of Hanuman, which he grew up hearing from his grandfather. The film also reflects his personal journey of overcoming challenges and finding his identity, blending action with themes of revenge, faith, and social justice.
How long did it take Dev Patel to get 'Monkey Man' greenlit?
It took Dev Patel over a decade to get 'Monkey Man' greenlit. He faced numerous challenges, including financial difficulties and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which halted production at one point.
What role did Jordan Peele play in the release of 'Monkey Man'?
Jordan Peele and his company, Monkeypaw, saved 'Monkey Man' from being released directly to a streaming platform. They believed in the film's theatrical potential and helped secure its release in theaters.
What challenges did Dev Patel face during the filming of 'Monkey Man'?
Dev Patel faced numerous challenges during filming, including breaking his hand, tearing his shoulder, and breaking his toes. Additionally, the production had to navigate COVID-19 restrictions, financial issues, and logistical problems, such as running out of toilet paper and dealing with location issues.
How did Dev Patel's acting process influence his directing style?
Dev Patel's acting process, which he describes as 90% panic and 10% instinct, influenced his directing style by emphasizing preparation and adaptability. He meticulously planned every detail of 'Monkey Man' but remained flexible to pivot when challenges arose.
What was Dev Patel's experience like filming 'Slumdog Millionaire'?
Filming 'Slumdog Millionaire' was a transformative experience for Dev Patel. He immersed himself in the culture of Mumbai, made lifelong friends, and fell in love with the city. The film recalibrated his understanding of his own identity and cultural heritage.
Why did Dev Patel struggle to find roles after 'Slumdog Millionaire'?
After 'Slumdog Millionaire,' Dev Patel struggled to find roles because Hollywood offered him stereotypical or one-dimensional parts that didn't align with his aspirations. He was often typecast as the 'IT dude' or other caricatures, which he found limiting.
What did Dev Patel learn from his experience on 'The Last Airbender'?
Dev Patel learned that he needed more training as an actor and that he should trust his instincts more. The experience was soul-crushing, and he vowed never to be a part of a project that didn't align with his values or talents again.
How did Dev Patel's role in 'Lion' impact his career?
Dev Patel's role in 'Lion' marked a significant turning point in his career. It allowed him to demonstrate the stillness and depth that Danny Boyle had once advised him to cultivate. The film earned him a Best Supporting Actor nomination at the Oscars.
What does Dev Patel hope to achieve with his future projects?
Dev Patel hopes to continue telling meaningful stories and exploring complex characters. He feels a responsibility to use his platform to represent diverse voices and to create films that resonate with audiences on a deeper level.
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