S2 Ep3: Mark Jenkin - Rose of Nevada, his journey into filmmaking and Bait
Summary
Filmmaker Mark Jenkins joins Paul Richards to discuss his latest film, *Rose of Nevada*, and his recent live score performance at the BFI IMAX. They explore the anxiety of performing music live, the influence of Brian Eno’s *Discreet Music* on his sound design, and the organic collaboration with musician Dion. Jenkins also reflects on the 20-year journey to produce *Bait*, the relief of its critical success, and how he now embraces his multi-disciplinary role as a writer, director, and cinematographer.
Topics discussed
Introduction and Mark Jenkins' recent live score performance
The anxiety and adrenaline of live performance
Adapting the music to different venues and spaces
Collaboration with Dion and the origin of their partnership
Recreating the Bait score and working with Dion
Listener impressions of the live score and genre influences
Integrating score with sound design and holistic audio
The original Bait score and the decision to use drones
Using synthesizers and tape loops to create unique sounds
Performing live with a guitar and the lack of initial credit
Recording music during lockdown for Ennis Men
Wearing many hats and the shift from filmmaker to director
The paradox of solo filmmaking and crew dependencies
Embracing the formal language of cinema and camera operation
Career timing and the privilege of current funding
Looking back at early influences and the path to success
The development of Bait and the lack of initial backing
Personal loss and the reinvigoration of the Bait project
The 20-year journey of making one film and its legacy
The Berlin premiere and the overwhelming critical response
Scaling up the crew for Rose Nevada while keeping the feel
Writing Rose Nevada during lockdown and the time travel plot
Casting George Mackay and Callum Turner
Following your gut and the importance of personal connection
Nostalgia for 90s music and the cultural impact of Britpop
Upcoming projects and recent music recommendations
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