The Safdie brothers, Josh and Benny, are known for their gritty and intense films such as Good Time and Uncut Gems. They have been working together as co-directors, co-writers, and co-producers for over a decade, creating a unique and distinctive style of filmmaking. However, in a shocking announcement, they revealed that they have decided to split up and pursue their own projects. What led to this decision and what does it mean for their future? Here is an explanation of why the Safdie brothers split up and what to expect from them in the future.
The Split Announcement
The news of the Safdie brothers’ split came as a surprise to many fans and critics, who had praised their collaboration and chemistry. The brothers had been working on a new project, a remake of the 1982 film 48 Hrs., starring Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte. However, in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Benny Safdie revealed that he had left the project due to creative differences with his brother and the studio. He explained that the project was now “on pause” and that he wanted to explore other genres and stories.
“I love my brother, but we have different visions for this movie. He wanted to make it more like a comedy, and I wanted to make it more like a thriller. And the studio wanted something else. It was just too much compromise for me. I felt like I was losing my voice as a filmmaker. So I decided to step away and do something else. I have a lot of ideas that I want to pursue, and I think it’s healthy to try new things and challenge yourself.” Benny said.
The Uncertainty of the Future
Benny’s departure from the project left Josh in a difficult position, as he had to either continue without his brother or abandon the project altogether. Benny admitted that he had parted ways with his brother, not only as a co-director, but also as a co-writer and co-producer. He said that he was unsure if they would ever reunite as a filmmaking duo, and that it depended on the right project and the right timing.
“We’re still brothers, and we still love each other. But we’re also individuals, and we have different tastes and interests. Maybe one day we’ll find a project that we both feel passionate about and want to work on together. But right now, we’re on different paths. And that’s okay. We respect each other’s choices and support each other’s careers. We’re not ruling out anything, but we’re not planning anything either. We’ll see what happens.” Benny said.
Future Projects for the Safdie Brothers
Despite the split, the Safdie brothers are not slowing down their careers. They both have potential projects lined up, either as solo directors or in collaboration with other filmmakers. Benny is reportedly working on a sci-fi film, tentatively titled The Zone, which he described as “a mind-bending adventure that explores the nature of reality and perception”. He said that he was inspired by films such as The Matrix and Inception, and that he wanted to create something original and innovative.
Josh, on the other hand, is rumored to be involved in a biopic of the late comedian Andy Kaufman, which he would co-direct with Spike Jonze, the director of Being John Malkovich and Her. Josh said that he was a huge fan of Kaufman and his work, and that he wanted to pay tribute to his legacy and influence. He said that he and Jonze had a similar vision and style, and that they would collaborate well.
“I think Andy Kaufman was a genius and a pioneer. He was not just a comedian, he was a performance artist. He blurred the lines between reality and fiction, and challenged the audience’s expectations and assumptions. He was always surprising and unpredictable. I think he and Spike have a lot in common, and I’m honored to work with him. We want to make a film that captures the essence and spirit of Andy, and that honors his fans and his family.” Josh said.
Conclusion
The Safdie brothers’ split is a sad and shocking news for many fans and critics, who had admired their work and their partnership. However, it is also an opportunity for them to grow and evolve as filmmakers, and to explore new genres and stories. They have not ruled out the possibility of reuniting in the future, but they are also not holding back their individual ambitions and passions. They are still brothers, and they still respect and support each other. They are also still talented and creative, and they have exciting projects in the works. The Safdie brothers may have split up, but they are not done making movies.
