Tony Gilroy on 'Behemoth!': A Cinematic Exploration of Loneliness and Music
A Creative Journey: From Concept to Screen, Driven by Passion and Collaboration
The Genesis of 'Behemoth!': A Project Reborn with Pedro Pascal
Filmmaker Tony Gilroy found himself at a crossroads regarding his passion project, 'Behemoth!', a narrative centered on a cellist's return to Los Angeles after two decades. The initial casting setback, with Oscar Isaac's departure, threatened to derail the production. Gilroy, prepared to abandon the film, described rehearsing a speech to his crew about the project's cancellation. However, a pivotal lunch meeting with Pedro Pascal unexpectedly revitalized the endeavor. Gilroy recounted his astonishment at Pascal's immediate suitability for the role, leading to an intensive three-hour discussion that cemented Pascal's commitment and ultimately saved the film.
Crafting the Musical Heart: A Unique Collective of Composers
The inspiration for 'Behemoth!' struck Gilroy during the scoring sessions for 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story'. This experience prompted six months of research and interviews with professional musicians, laying the groundwork for a film deeply rooted in the world of movie music. After dedicating six years to Disney+'s 'Andor', Gilroy sought a creative refuge from its political intensity, finding solace in this new project. Despite the inherent financial challenges of a film focused on a cellist and requiring nine composers, Gilroy's vision prevailed. He assembled an unprecedented group, 'The Behemoth! Collective', ensuring equal compensation, alphabetical billing, and shared publishing rights for all participants, emphasizing a collaborative spirit over individual recognition.
Behind the Scenes: Casting and Creative Dynamics
Gilroy spoke enthusiastically about the cast, particularly Pedro Pascal's transformative portrayal of Alex Serian. He praised Pascal's innate talent and dedication, noting how the actor began cello lessons almost immediately after their initial meeting. The director also lauded Olivia Wilde's performance, highlighting her intelligent approach to her character and the efficiency she brought to the set. Gilroy emphasized his preference for raw, spontaneous performances, often avoiding extensive rehearsals to capture authentic moments from his actors and crew.
Beyond the Music: Themes of Family and Contemporary Loneliness
While 'Behemoth!' is deeply intertwined with music, Gilroy clarifies that its core narrative transcends the realm of classical scores. He views the film as a poignant exploration of family dynamics, personal history, and the intricate "new varieties of loneliness" prevalent in today's fragmented society. Gilroy suggests the film resonates with universal experiences of life's turning points, the search for completion, and the courage to confront internal struggles. He particularly highlights the film's interactive nature, where the protagonist's journey of discovery mirrors the audience's own quest for understanding, making it a uniquely engaging cinematic experience.
Reflections on a Filmmaker's Journey and Industry Trends
Gilroy shared personal anecdotes about his artistic origins, revealing his early aspirations as a musician before his father's involvement in the film industry indirectly steered him towards cinema. He discussed his methodical approach to filmmaking, characterized by extensive preparation and a preference for contained, focused projects over longer series. Addressing the evolving landscape of Hollywood, Gilroy expressed his anxieties but maintained a pragmatic outlook, emphasizing the importance of aligning personal interests with viable production opportunities. He also touched upon his extensive collection of unproduced screenplays, acknowledging how their relevance can shift over time.
The Enduring Power of Empathy and Connection
Despite the film's thematic exploration of loneliness, Gilroy emphasized his own deeply connected life, enriched by a long-standing marriage, family, and a close-knit professional team. He articulated how aging has amplified his empathy, a quality he now actively seeks to integrate into his storytelling. Gilroy identified "too late" as a deeply moving concept for him, representing missed opportunities for connection—a theme subtly woven into 'Behemoth!'. He underscored Pedro Pascal's ability to embody both the lively and melancholic aspects of his character, showcasing a legitimate depth of emotion that anchors the film's profound message about human vulnerability and resilience.
