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Film School: Mulholland Dr. (2001)

Mulholland Dr. (2001) Mulholland Dr. (2001)

Processes behind David Lynch’s beloved, self-described “mystery” film.

Doomed Pilot

Mulholland Dr. was originally the pilot episode for a TV series – which, as star Naomi Watts explains, almost became “the only David Lynch thing that sits on a shelf and collects dust” (via The Movie Show):

Watts and Lynch explain the project’s transcendental journey from pilot to feature:

Production

In stark contrast to Betty / Diane Selwyn’s Hollywood-dream-turned-nightmare journey in the film, the real-life dynamic between Naomi Watts and writer/director David Lynch sounds exemplary – and no less artistically experimental, challenging or brave for being a safe space:

Applause from David Lynch and the crew for Naomi Watts’ performance in the dinner scene:

More B-Roll of the Mulholland Dr. film shoot (via FilmIsNow):

Dispelling the myth that co-requisite behaviour for “auteur” directors is abusive treatment of cast and crew, the female stars of David Lynch’s films routinely attest to feelings of safety, trust, and respect, despite the themes, scenes and stories exploring dark, even harrowing ideas. Here are some charming and, frankly, inspiring tales from Naomi Watts, Laura Dern and Patricia Arquette (via W magazine):

Respectfully, wow:

Further Viewing

Even as I say that I’m almost as loathe to post “… Explained” videos as “… Ending Explained” videos, I found Twin Perfect‘s drill-down on the symbolism within this film specifically, and in Lynch’s verbal language more generally, pretty compelling:

More on how David Lynch, as well as Pedro Almodóvar, Denis Villeneuve, and a growing number of others, are living proof that male directors can be commercially and critically acclaimed while completely trashing the “difficult genius” myth:

Film School: Male Directors Who Do It Right