Bryn Chainey: “Rabbit Trap” Writer-Director Backstory
Okay, here’s a breakdown of the key themes and insights from this interview, organized for clarity. This is essentially a profile of a filmmaker with a very distinct artistic vision.
I. Filmmaking Philosophy & Process
Dedicated Craft: This filmmaker values a deeply committed and collaborative crew. The success of their recent film was attributed to the “enthusiasm, community, joy, focus, humour, and creativity” of the team, even amidst challenging conditions (remote Yorkshire locations, constant rain, 35mm film, fast 20-day shoot).
Core Themes: Their work consistently explores internal contradictions: connection vs. isolation, the natural world vs.internal landscapes, vulnerability vs. bravery.
Artistic Goal: To create films that offer solace and validation: “It’s OK, you’re not alone in having a weird, bewildered, paradoxical soul.” They believe value lies in the tension between these contradictions.
Distinctive Approach to Cinema: They see cinema as uniquely positioned to explore the physicality of existence, something television and theater don’t do as well. They want to move beyond dialog-driven narratives.
II. A Call for Sensory Cinema
Beyond Visuals & Performance: While acknowledging the importance of visuals and acting, the filmmaker advocates for a greater emphasis on sensuality in film.
Embodiment & Nature: Stories should be rooted in the physical experience of being alive and connected to nature. They see the disconnect from nature as a root cause of environmental problems.
Sensory Detail: They crave films that engage all the senses: smell, taste, touch, sound, and light – not just sight. They want films that feel “like they’ve sprung directly from the earth.”
Rejection of the Digital: A preference for a more organic, tactile aesthetic – away from the “computer screen.”
III.Influences & Admiration
Creative Heroes: A diverse list of names (Dev Patel, Rosy McEwen, Jade Croot, Lucie Red, Andreas johannessen, Graham Reznick, Lucrecia Dalt, Brett Bachmann, Sam Sneade, Daniel Noah, Lawrence Inglee, elijah Wood, frankie Fox) suggesting a broad range of influences and collaborators.
Envy & Inspiration: The Substance (Coralie Fargeat) is a film they deeply admire, recognizing its boldness and perfection. They express regret about not being able to push boundaries further in their own film Rabbit Trap (due to budget and resistance to “unhinged and disgusting” elements). They see The Substance as paving the way for more acceptance of the grotesque and sublime.
Sundance Favorite: Mandy* (Panos Cosmatos) had a profound impact, described as a life-changing experience.
In essence, this filmmaker is a passionate advocate for a more visceral, embodied, and emotionally honest form of cinema – one that reconnects us to our senses, to nature, and to the complexities of the human experience.
Let me know if you’d like me to elaborate on any of these points, or if you have a specific question about the interview!