As a huge fan of Shawn Levy and his work, I’ve been inspired by his journey and the insights he’s shared about his approach to success in Hollywood. His experiences, as recounted in this interview, are a testament to the importance of staying true to oneself and embracing unexpected opportunities.
Shawn Levy has long chafed at the labels Hollywood has placed upon him.
Montreal-born filmmaker, who once specialized in family comedies like “Night at the Museum” and “Cheaper by the Dozen,” has since transitioned into producing thought-provoking Oscar winners such as “Arrival” and cultural phenomena like “Stranger Things.”
Following a series of victories in the early 2000s, Levy tried something new with the 2011 film “Real Steel,” which brought in approximately $300 million worldwide and demonstrated his ability to infuse emotion into action movies. This project also paired him with Hugh Jackman, who, like other collaborators of the producer-director, found that Levy fostered a nurturing atmosphere on set. Jackman explains, “There wasn’t one particular scene where we really connected; it was more an overall sensation during ‘Real Steel’ that made me believe this would be a long-lasting friendship.”
After Robin Williams passed away and “This Is Where I Leave You” didn’t perform well at the box office in 2014, I, Shawn Levy, took a moment to reflect on my identity and how I wanted to be perceived. I decided to channel my energy into my production company, 21 Laps, and went on to direct two successful movies: “Free Guy” with Ryan Reynolds and “The Adam Project.” These projects not only allowed me to grow as a director but also boosted my box office success to an impressive $2.7 billion.
The upcoming “Deadpool & Wolverine” by Marvel, set for release on July 26, represents a new phase for the filmmaker. This R-rated production, known for its violence, is unlike any of Levy’s previous work – but it hides a tender core. Has Levy discovered how to be compassionate while hopping between genres and breaking rules? He believes so. According to Levy, “I’m not pursuing anything anymore.”
In your past, you had minor parts in “21 Jump Street” and “Thirtysomething.” When did you come to the decision that acting wasn’t the path for you anymore?
During my time at Yale, I collaborated on numerous plays with Paul Giamatti, a fellow student. In our freshman year, we brought “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” to life. At eighteen, as we performed, I found myself observing Paul and thinking, “Wow, this is what true talent looks like. I’m not quite there yet.” This marked the beginning of my inspiration. The second spark came when I relocated to Los Angeles, where I spent hours in audition waiting rooms. Surrounded by a dozen or so aspiring actors, including Paul Rudd who often secured the roles, I later repaid the favor by casting him in “Night at the Museum,” acknowledging, “I am a director because of the waiting rooms we shared.”
Instead of: “At the age of 23, you gave up acting and opted for a master’s degree in film at USC. Can you describe that time for us?”
During the late 80s and early to mid-90s, many films were being made that imitated Tarantino’s style, which was dark, violent, and edgy. In contrast, I produced a thesis film, a heartwarming comedy about two 13-year-olds who married each other in an attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. My classmates ridiculed me for taking on such a “soft” and “sweet” project, but when our films were screened at the USC First Look Festival, I received a flood of job offers. By lunchtime, I had 47 voicemails, marking the start of a successful career that continues to this day.
What was the transition from school to the real world like?
After securing considerable television directing jobs for networks like Disney Channel and Nickelodeon, my ultimate goal was to make the transition to movies. The opportunity I had been anticipating finally came when Brian Robbins, who was producing a film titled “Big Fat Liar,” contacted me. He exclaimed, “This is it! I have a movie for you to direct.” Initially, I questioned, “Why me?” To which he replied, “Because your episode of ‘Cousin Skeeter’ on Nickelodeon stood out among several others.” That was my long-awaited break. Unfortunately, I didn’t fully recognize the significance of this achievement at the age of 30. Instead, I went on to direct a series of successful films in quick succession, but I remained blissfully unaware of their true value.
You had a nice run of big studio comedies that were quite successful.
I’ve been lucky that I’ve had a few repeat collaborators who shaped me forever after. The first was Steve Martin, two movies [Cheaper by the Dozen, Pink Panther], then it was three [Night at the Museum] movies with Ben Stiller, two movies with Tina Fey [Date Night, This Is Where I Leave You], and now three movies with Ryan Reynolds. I love a creative synergy with a fellow artist. It makes me better, and as that trust develops, there’s a freedom that leads to better work, I think.
How do you develop that trust?
Instead of some directors who work primarily intellectually and secluded behind the camera, I approach both life and my profession from a deeply emotional standpoint. My thoughts and feelings are palpable and external to me. With actors, who often share this emotional openness, a genuine connection forms effortlessly. They trust that I will nurture their performances in post-production. If an actor does not believe in a director’s abilities or judgment, they may offer cautious, consistent takes. However, if they have faith that the director will seek out and utilize the best moments, they are more inclined to take risks.
When you were producing your home movies, Judd Apatow and Todd Phillips were creating what some called “trendy comedies.” Meanwhile, you were working on “Cheaper by the Dozen.” How did you feel about this contrast in projects?
At certain moments, I shied away from being labeled a “family comedy” artist, yet I recall having a conversation with Chris Columbus, one of my producers, following the success of “Night at the Museum.” He inquired about my future projects and I expressed my intent to explore edgier, darker themes. Chris then questioned me, “Why are you doing this?” I responded, unsure of his meaning. He explained, “You’re running from the very thing that you excel at. You’ve been gifted with a unique ability to create family comedies effortlessly, an ability not everyone possesses. Instead of shying away, embrace and cherish your natural talents.”
Real Steel. Would you say that is the most important movie on your résumé?
It’s the most important movie on my résumé in terms of shifting perception of who I was as a director. It is still a Shawn Levy movie in that it is crowd-please-y and it is unabashedly emotional and warmhearted, and it’s about the redemption of relationships and the connections within family. But Real Steel is not a comedy. It has bigger, more muscular action. It has a completely different aesthetic look from all my prior movies, and it really freed me up to see if I had the different muscles I thought I might.
Have you ever collaborated with Hugh Jackman on the production of “Real Steel” before? I’d be curious to know about your initial encounter with him.
In an airport, I came across a man I hadn’t met before. Despite our unfamiliarity, we shared a connection through our previous work experience at Fox. He looked worried as his phone battery was running low. So, I approached this stranger and offered him my phone charger. He was taken aback, but soon recognized me from our mutual acquaintances. We exchanged surprised greetings before I explained that we knew around 50 people in common. This encounter happened over a year or two before the release of “Real Steel,” and it was just an unexpected meeting at the airport.
The Night at the Museum film series originally grew from within the industry. Those films became massive hits, so your involvement in that project must have been incredibly beneficial.
(Laughing lightly) Back then, there was an enigmatic phenomenon called “backend gross” that existed. It’s a memory from another time, something we can no longer experience. Yet it was very much real. For those fortunate enough to thrive in that era, success came easily. I had a successful run for a decade and enjoyed a comfortable life. I didn’t have the pressure of needing to work solely to support my family. But even then, I couldn’t help but wonder, “Is this it? Am I going to be known as the guy who made many hit family films, but what’s next?”
In an unexpected turn of events, “Arrival” and “Stranger Things” emerged. Although I didn’t oversee their production, some intriguing occurrences transpired. For instance, the shattering of preconceptions. The fact that the director of “Night at the Museum” and “Cheaper by the Dozen” was behind these productions came as a shock to many. Yet, this disruption proved beneficial, as it compelled people to reconsider my capabilities and the types of stories I could potentially bring to life.
How do you decide which episodes of Stranger Things to direct?
In the first season, it was essential for me to purchase some extra time for the team. Later on, when “Stranger Things” gained immense popularity, the Duffers and I discovered a mutual belief in the supernatural. Consequently, I took on writing episodes three and four each year. I consider myself fortunate as episode four is typically where the story takes an absurd turn.
As a seasoned producer with years of experience in the entertainment industry, I can tell you that managing the demands of two powerful entities like the Duffers and Netflix is no easy feat. The brothers Matt and Ross, known for their groundbreaking work on the hit series “Stranger Things,” bring an immense creative vision to the table, while Netflix, as a leading streaming platform, expects nothing but the best in terms of production quality and viewer engagement.
As a gamer put in an important role in the production of Stranger Things, I’ve found myself stepping up to help the Duffers whenever they need a hand. Despite my background as a movie director, I knew this project was too captivating to pass up. So, I made a commitment: “Whatever you need from me, I’m your guy.”
How did Ryan Reynolds enter your life?
Around 2017, Ryan and I had a chat about a potential movie project that didn’t come to fruition in the end. We worked on it briefly together before Ryan moved on to make “Deadpool 2”. Then, on July 17, 2018, which was my daughter’s birthday, I received a text from Ryan asking what I was up to and mentioning that he thought he had found our movie. It turned out to be the script for “Free Guy”, which I had read six months prior but hadn’t understood due to its gaming-centric storyline. However, I was keen to work with Ryan, so we met the next day. Although neither of us were avid gamers, we shared a fascination for the unique concept of the script. We began working on it and hit it off right away. At this stage in our lives, we had both achieved individual successes, and we were eager to join forces. Our collaboration extended beyond filming as well – we would travel from New York to Boston by train, sit together in a small compartment with a laptop between us, and brainstorm ideas. During this time, we discovered that our roles went beyond just director and actor. We became producers and writers instead. This pattern continued in “Adam Project” and reached its peak with “Deadpool & Wolverine”.
Is there ever going to be a Free Guy 2?
I’ve spent the last two years brainstorming ideas and perfecting scripts for our project. However, much like the creators of “The Adam Project,” I’m starting to have my doubts. While we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished and don’t feel compelled to make sequels, if we can’t come up with a compelling story worth telling, we might as well move on and create something new instead.
How did you end up part of the Deadpool family? Because on paper, with the R rating and how the previous filmmakers were all edgy visual effects or action guys, you don’t fit the profile.
During the production of “The Adam Project,” Ryan shared with me his thoughts: “I’ll likely only take on another Deadpool if you’re the director.” I recall standing in a vast, dark Vancouver soundstage during COVID times, wearing protective gear. He added, “You’ll say no at first, but I’ll wear you down until it becomes a yes.” Unbeknownst to him, I was an avid Marvel fan and an ardent Deadpool admirer, long before crossing paths with Ryan Reynolds. Consequently, my affirmative response came promptly, marking the start of an unforeseen adventure.
In reality, my résumé might not have aligned with conventional wisdom, but throughout my professional journey, I’ve thrived on defying expectations. I’m not content with limiting myself to a single role or creative genre. This latest project is particularly rewarding as it showcases my unconventional path when many assumed I would stick to the status quo.
There have been reports that you were going to helm a Marvel film, specifically an Avengers project. However, it’s currently the Russo Brothers leading that charge. Are you involved in any upcoming Marvel productions?
As a gamer, I can’t help but feel that my future collaborations with Marvel are a given. The specifics of when and what are still up in the air. Contrary to popular belief, and even my own doubts beforehand, I’ve been given an unprecedented level of creative freedom and trust on this project, making it one of the most empowering experiences I’ve had in my gaming career.
***
Shawn Levy’s 5 Secrets to Success
1. Don’t treat the studio like the enemy.
I value those who finance my dream career as equal partners. I keep an open door to my studio and involve them in the creative process without trying to exclude them. While I take the lead, I appreciate their financial support that brought my dream to life.
2. Be nice.
As a gamer, I’ve encountered plenty of players who acted arrogantly towards others when they held the top spot in the game. I can easily recall fifteen such instances from memory. But let me tell you, when fortune turns against you and you’re no longer leading the pack, those same individuals won’t be extending a helping hand to help you regain your position. Instead, they might even close ranks and make it harder for you to come back. So, treat others with respect and kindness, because in this ever-changing gaming world, you never know when your turn at the top might come to an end.
3. You don’t know what’s around the corner.
In my thirties, I was a well-compensated and commercially successful comedian known for family-friendly roles. However, things became more intriguing in my forties when I started directing films like “Real Steel,” “Date Night,” and “The Internship. Now, as I enter my fifties, I’ve had the opportunity to create projects such as “Free Guy,” “The Adam Project,” “All the Light We Cannot See,” and “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Never underestimate your capabilities; what you’ve accomplished so far is only the beginning.
4. Be decisive.
As a dedicated fan and observer, I’ve noticed that when the director or leader fails to make clear and timely decisions, it can erode trust among the cast and crew. This indecisiveness creates an uneasy feeling, as if there’s a void of power and authority. Over time, this lack of decisiveness results in wasted time on set. And let me tell you, nothing is more disrespectful than wasting the valuable time of those hardworking individuals who give their all to bring a production to life.
5. This is an inherently emotional business.
In any setting, be it a team meeting at 21 Laps or a production set with a large crew, expressing feelings and enthusiasm genuinely can significantly inspire and bring out the best in individuals.
I’ve always been a devoted fan of The Hollywood Reporter, eagerly anticipating each new issue to stay updated on the latest happenings in the entertainment industry. This time around, I was particularly thrilled when I came across an intriguing story in the July 22 edition. If you’re as curious as I am about Hollywood and its stars, then subscribing to The Hollywood Reporter is a must. Trust me, it’s a decision you won’t regret! Click here to subscribe now.
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2024-07-23 21:26