We talk Gemini Man with Ang Lee, Clive Owen, Jerry Bruckheimer and more!

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

There are very few filmmakers that are as skilled and versatile as Ang Lee. The man behind CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON and HULK, also took on more personal tales like BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN, THE ICE STORM and SENSE AND SENSIBILITY. And now, Mr. Lee brings us not one, but two Will Smiths’. GEMINI MAN not only brings the director back to action, it also continues to provide him the opportunity to explore technology and visual effects in an intriguing way. In the new feature, Will Smith finds that he is being tracked down by a younger version of himself, and it’s pretty damn impressive. The young and completely VFX version of Will Smith is surprisingly lifelike, enough that when the action takes place, it’s easy to forget that this is one impressive visual trick.

Recently, we had the great opportunity to speak with some of the fine folks behind GEMINI MAN. This includes the incredibly talented Clive Owen. Mr. Owen discussed his approach to playing a villain. The actor also discussed working with Ang and taking on film such as this. He was incredible to speak with, and it’s always a joy watching him work. We also had the chance to chat with Benedict Wong, who talks about his role in the film and working with Ang Lee.

Next up we spoke to the man of the hour himself. Ang Lee is a fascinating filmmaker. He talked about taking on this particular project, and the time it took to actually make the film. Mr. Lee also opened up about presenting this film in a higher frame rate, and of course, creating a young Will Smith. Considering the impressive resume of Lee, it’s always fantastic to speak with him. And it’s hard to not respect the fact that he tries hard to never repeat himself.

And finally, we spoke to the legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer, and two of the impressive talent who helped create the visual effects. Jerry discussed his long history working with Will Smith – which of course continues with the upcoming BAD BOYS FOR LIFE. He also opened up about whether digitally creating a human being would become commonplace in modern cinema. As for the VFX, we also spoke to both Bill Westenhofer (VFX supervisor) and Guy Williams (WETA, VFX supervisor) who discussed the challenges presented here, and how complex creating a living breathing digital character to life. It was a terrific conversation, and frankly, they did amazing work with the impressive effects presented.

If you are in the mood for two Will Smiths’, you may want to check out GEMINI MAN, also starring Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Douglas Hodge.