Lucy Liu Hilariously Breaks Down the Differences Between Tarantino and Soderbergh!

by

Lucy Liu takes on a significant yet subtle part in Steven Soderbergh‘s latest film, titled Presence. Liu has a history of collaborating with renowned directors of her era, as she was also cast as Oren Ishi in Tarantino’s iconic, gory masterpiece, Kill Bill, and more recently, provided comedic flair to the role in an amusing SNL skit. When asked about working with these two esteemed figures, she replied, “It’s not like comparing apples and oranges. It’s more like comparing meat and fruit…they’re just so different.

Indeed, just as Presence differs significantly from the lively, extensive backdrop of Kill Bill, Soderbergh’s latest production presents a distinctly unique narrative. In this film, viewers find themselves playing the role of the ghost in a haunted house tale. Liu portrays the overworked matriarch of a family who struggles to address her daughter’s emotional issues following the death of a dear friend. Each performance is intricate due to the relationship between the actor and the camera, which is considered as another character. It appears that Soderbergh and Liu discussed this project in stark contrast to their previous discussions during her meetings with Tarantino.

During our conversation, Steven didn’t mention anything about the project initially. Later in the meeting, he shared the script with me, but neglected to specify my character. He also didn’t mention that we’d be starting production right away. I agreed and headed to the set, where he offered minimal direction, only asking questions like “Should we move left or right?” or “Shall we try again?” or “What are your thoughts?” That was about it.

Soderbergh is recognized for his reserved behavior on set; he finishes a take and swiftly moves forward; it might be this style that has led Soderbergh to direct 33 films and numerous TV series, whereas Tarantino has only made nine films (when counting the two volumes of Kill Bill as one). Liu reflected on her encounters with Quentin Tarantino, and they were significantly distinct from those with Soderbergh.

Steven and Quentin are clearly unique directors, each having their distinct work styles. Quentin’s energy is unmatched, almost akin to that of the sun. This speaks volumes, as he constantly exudes an overflowing imagination which he readily shares. He would even act out entire scenes, our final sequences, and various characters for me at a restaurant.

It’s straightforward to envision Tarantino relishing his passion for acting and infusing every character and scene with vitality during dinner with an actor. Conversely, Soderbergh’s method of providing less direction and allowing actors to discover the nuances themselves can offer a unique experience, as Liu notes, “Their approaches are distinct. I think the creative risks that Steven is prepared to take resemble a painter who isn’t hesitant to erase and then layer on new elements.

Steven Soderbergh Is “Very Trusting”

Chris Sullivan, who plays Liu’s husband in the series Presence, is an experienced collaborator of Soderbergh, having worked on approximately 19 hours of television with him through The Knick. He made an effort to help the cast get ready for the director’s distinctive and globally recognized traits.

I was familiar with his work style and shared this insight with others. I also warned them about the minimal feedback they might receive. This isn’t because he’s uninterested, but rather due to his high level of trust. He has faith in your abilities to do the job he’s hired you for, and as he’s juggling three roles, he’s confident that everything will run smoothly.

And everything did! Presence is in theaters on Jan. 24, 2025, from NEON.

Read More

2025-01-21 01:02