Paul Schrader is one of the most iconic voices in cinema today. From his brilliant script that created a legend with Martin Scorsese’s classic Taxi Driver, to the thought-provoking First Reformed with Ethan Hawke, he’s a true master. His latest effort is a thoughtful and intriguing tale about a man with a secret past who embarks on an unexpected love triangle. Yet this is a Paul Schrader feature, so you will find several layers with these characters. Master Gardener features an incredible cast including Joel Edgerton, Sigourney Weaver, and the terrific Quintessa Swindell. And not surprisingly, it features a sharp script from the writer/director himself.
I recently sat down with Sigourney Weaver and Joel Edgerton to discuss their latest. And while my camera took a moment to click, once it did, it was a fascinating chat. Both of these incredible talents opened up about living in this world, and working off of a Paul Schrader script. In fact, it was refreshing hearing them talk about working with such a legend. For Ms. Weaver, this is a very different role than we’ve seen her in before. It’s the type of role that she’s avoided, until now, for very good reasons. As for Mr. Edgerton, he talked at length about bringing such a layered character to life. Master Gardener is currently in theaters, and worth checking out for fans of Mr. Schrader.
Master Gardener has the following synopsis: A meticulous horticulturist is devoted to tending the grounds of a beautiful estate owned by a wealthy dowager. When he’s told to take on her troubled great-niece as an apprentice, his life is thrown into chaos and dark secrets from his past emerge.