Ep 7. TV Directors

Close Up with The Hollywood Reporter is a talk show that features in-depth interviews with Hollywood's biggest names. In season 6 episode 7, "TV Directors," the spotlight shifts to those who bring our favorite TV shows to life.

The episode features a roundtable discussion between some of the most acclaimed TV directors working today. The guests include Lesli Linka Glatter (Homeland, Mad Men), Barry Levinson (The Wizard of Lies, Ozark), Gillian Robespierre (Russian Doll, Girls), Stephen Hopkins (24, House of Lies), and Jonathan Nolan (Westworld).

The conversation covers a range of topics, from the challenges of directing episodic TV to the creative freedom that the medium allows. The directors share their experiences working with actors, crafting memorable moments, and bringing their unique visions to the screen.

One of the key themes of the episode is the role that TV directors play in shaping long-running shows. With streaming services and cable networks often producing shows with shorter seasons, TV directors have more of a hand in creating cohesive narratives. They discuss the importance of being versatile and adapting to different types of shows, as well as the challenge of maintaining consistency over multiple seasons.

The guests also discuss the impact that technology has had on TV directing. With digital cameras and advanced visual effects, TV shows can create bigger and more complex worlds than ever before. But this also requires directors to work closely with post-production teams and be able to visualize the final product before shooting.

The episode highlights the different approaches each director takes to their work. Lesli Linka Glatter discusses the importance of emotional storytelling, drawing on her experience directing intimate scenes on Mad Men. Barry Levinson shares his philosophy of "finding the moments that matter" and creating a cinematic experience for audiences. Gillian Robespierre talks about the freedom of working with a writer-creator like Natasha Lyonne on Russian Doll and experimenting with different styles. Stephen Hopkins reflects on his experience directing 24 and the intense pressure of delivering high-stakes action sequences. Jonathan Nolan shares his approach to storytelling on Westworld and his belief that TV can be a powerful tool for exploring complex themes.

Throughout the episode, the directors also touch on broader industry issues, such as the importance of diversity and the need for more opportunities for women and people of color in the directing world. They also discuss the pros and cons of binge-watching and the challenge of keeping audiences engaged with long-form storytelling.

Overall, season 6 episode 7 of Close Up with The Hollywood Reporter is a fascinating look into the world of TV directing. With insights from some of the most talented and diverse directors working today, it offers a rare glimpse into the creative process behind some of our favorite shows.