James Cameron & Denis Villeneuve on 'Avatar', 'Dune', and Pioneering CGI | Directors on Directors

James Cameron and Denis Villeneuve discuss the upcoming ‘Avatar’ films, the influence of ‘Dune’, creating worlds within films, the future of streaming and movie theaters, and Timothée Chalamet.
Variety Directors on Directors presented by MGM Studios and United Artists Releasing.
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[@jolivertv]

29 minutes of James Cameron and Denis Villeneuve complimenting each other. What a special treat! I loved their conversation.

[@funfact1310]

Wholesome ... The word in it's definition.

[@RC19786]

2 giants, one a legend and one a burgeoning one....Nuff said!

[@FabledGentleman]

These are actually my two favorite directors of all time. So this was an half hour really well spent :D

[@993mike]

Absolutely agree. If you throw Christopher Nolan in there as well you'd have my hat trick of favorite directors!

[@Trepanation21]

EXACTLY! As soon as the intro played through with James' question to Denis about "the ground shifting under our feet", I looked at the time and saw a half hour left of great conversation!

[@AlBroMedia]

DENIS was sooo happy when James noticed the helicopter shot was a homage to Black Hawk Down. So cool and wholesome.

[@floofy5529]

And here I never thought Michael Bay was not known in the cinematography world intellectually. Not just action flicks for consumers.

[@eyob.t1389]

@@floofy5529 what do you mean? Black Hawk Down isn't a Michael Bay movie.

[@floofy5529]

@@eyob.t1389 Oh shoot you're right!

[@eyob.t1389]

@@floofy5529 I get why you'd think that though.

[@si2]

2 canadians having a time

[@samrogers5090]

Hearing how tired denis villeneuve was and feeling happy he didn’t do the second dune back to back just cements to me what an absolute champ Peter Jackson is.

[@MrDwarfBangityBang]

Exactly, and that's when things go "smoothly". Denis and Jackson had great production on Dune and Lotr respectively and were exhausted, obviously Jackson a whole lot more. Imagine what Peter must've gone through during the disastrous production of The Hobbit movies. If good management on a massive scale movie hits you like a train, what's the feeling you get with 3 mismanaged movies? Kudos to Pete

[@SuperRONDALE]

That’s why Peter planed for almost 4 years before they started production for the LOTR movies. Don’t know why they didn’t do that for the hobbit, which should’ve been at most two movies.

[@samrogers5090]

@@SuperRONDALE wasn’t his choice the money men ruined it originally it was going to be one 3 hour movie directed by Guillermo del Toro

[@galaxymoonlqght3732]

@@SuperRONDALEit was getting planned well and was originally gonna be directed by Guillermo Del Toro but he left the project because the scheduling delays conflicted with the time that Del Toro allocated with the hobbit. He had no choice but to step down and Peter Jackson quickly stepped in and did the best with the planning. Guillermo Del Toro is still credited for the screenplay.

[@pfl95]

I feel like jackson would have wanted what Denis did lmao the bts and interviews all seem to indicate how difficult making those films were. no idea why he wanted to do that with the hobbit

[@jonathanfoster4202]

The fact that Avatar 2, 3 and 4 were filmed at the same time blows my mind. The amount of organizational skills James Cameron has to have to be able to shoot so out of order is just mind blowing

[@emmettmccann2214]

I believe only 2 and 3 have been filmed so far. Or at least back-to-back

[@jonathanfoster4202]

@@emmettmccann2214 i think he mentioned filming 4 too so that the kid actors still look like kids in the whole series

[@IVIargerineEclipse]

@@jonathanfoster4202 Just the kid parts in 4 - up to Page 25 (After pg 25 there is a 6 year time jump forward) as he said in the interview. So NOT much.

[@jonathanfoster4202]

@@IVIargerineEclipse still crazy tho

[@vibangigan5336]

It sounds like it’s gonna be super convoluted. Like I don’t see this being very good pacing wise at all.

[@mrcoatsworth429]

Two filmmakers who have directed two of the best sci-fi sequels of all time, which are both, oddly enough, sequels to Ridley Scott films.

[@suganthram7767]

Also, both the alien movies ended up being hits at the BO while it's the opposite for both the Blade runner movies

[@o27001]

@@suganthram7767 Alien has a wider appeal when compared to Blade Runner which is very niche in comparison. Both the Alien films are sci fi horror/action films while Blade Runner is a neo noir slow burn cerebral sci fi film and these kinds of films almost never become box office hits.

[@maximeteppe7627]

@@o27001 I think the "failure" of 49 has been overstated. If it had been a full on commercial failure, Villeneuve wouldn't have had the opportunity to direct another blockbuster right after. BR49 has been a critical darling and as a result has longevity in video and streaming - even though those are not quite theater experiences, home cinema and large screens are common enough that people can still appreciate the movie. But the success of the movie and its status as a cult classic mirrors the original blade runner's fate even more - with the added benefit of minor executive meddling (no voiceover, no universe breaking drive into the sunset). While I'm sure some execs did distrust Villeneuve, and the relative low box office are the reason why both dune movies haven't been produced at once and why the first Dune at least has had a lower budget than blade runner, I believe the producers knew they had a great movie that, to a degree, would take care of itself and recoup their investment over time, which is why they kept Dune going with Denis at the helm, even is a slightly scaled back version.

[@zenithquasar9623]

Cameron, Scott, and Villeneuve are the 3 people whose sci-fi directing do it for me!

[@slayerje1884]

Also the Black Hawk Down homage mentioned...was directed by Ridley Scott.

[@SaraX2024]

I like how they even maintained their personal color palette in the interview. Blue for Avatar and Beige for Dune. Great shoutout to Bill Paxton.

[@mkultra2456]

GAME OVER MAN! GAME OVER!

[@thomasjrgensen5393]

Yeah loved the shoutout as well. I always wondered if Paxton would have had a role in the Avatar sequels before he passed. seeing that him and Cameron had a long career working together. I wonder if Cameron had a role in mind for him. I'd like to ask him about that.

[@Tilnaor]

Also Cameron surruonded with displays, yet Villeneuve just a curtain and a lamp.

[@raukoring]

They're both artists by heart right?

[@OHHnoYOUdidntMAN]

RIP Bill Paxton

[@IsaiasMGPalafox]

Little did we know that exactly a year later, Avatar: Way of Water would release & Dune Part 2 would wrap up filming. What a time to b alive. 😂👏🏼

[@iestynne]

Cameron's comment about how the epic feeling of Dune was elevated by only doing "up-close and personal" or "grand landscape" shots, with nothing in between... that's such a great insight. Personal experiences, embedded in the vast expanse of deep time. That thought will stick with me.

[@nhlanhlasithole2899]

Exactly. The scale of dune is so consuming

[@floofy5529]

And I agree that you don't feel that with Marvel movies, and I think that's intentional. Marvel is supposed to be easy to watch, action packed, tightly packed, with some laughs. Less about world building than it is about the characters and their abilities.

[@seun35]

Exactly, that's a great pro tip for future filmmakers. 💥

[@KaitainCPS]

One of the things George Lucas had to argue with Fox about with the original "Star Wars" (1977) was that he didn't want to put many epic long shots in at all. He felt it would distract from the sense of immersion and realism in the film. The studio wanted to "see all the money up on the screen" by having as many epic shots as possible. Lucas wanted to go the other way...a lot more mid-shots and close-ups, as though the movie had simply been filmed on location in the Death Star or on Tatooine, and that it was basic everyday stuff for that galaxy. Fox eventually acquiesced, and I think it was a great decision. You believe in the world implicitly because you aren't constantly having its unusual nature shoved in your face.

[@Ken-ij4ry]

Denis gets so happy that he spotted the Black Hawk Down homage. And that shot definitely had the desired affect on me as a viewer.

[@baraka99]

He did a very similar shot on Sicario as well (with helicopters).

[@NBC.SATURDAY.NIGHT.LIVE.]

Loved that part. Denis lit up like a Christmas tree when Jim said that to him Lolol

[@TryptychUK]

Whereas I thought Cameron did a pretty obvious nod to "Apocalypse Now" with his aircraft.

[@NBC.SATURDAY.NIGHT.LIVE.]

@@TryptychUK no one cares.

[@Trazynn]

It's such a great shot because it's one that you can't conjure up in a concept art still image. Up to that point, a lot of the scenes in Dune were 'concept artish', a lot of impressive shots without much movement, just artwork come to live. So seeing that one ornithopter cross the others almost felt like a relief as it promised the movie was going to be more dynamic from there on out.

[@Robohtgaming]

Two legendary Canadian filmmakers!! Avatar 2 was fantastic and I can't wait for Dune pt2

[@ShaneJoshua1980]

I was sceptical but I really enjoyed it. It had an emotional punch. Visually it was besutiful

[@RazvanMihaeanu]

Avatar 3 is Dune 2.

[@nick_0]

The fact that Avatar and Dune are so similar lol, the same message of humans brutalizing a more vulnerable population for resources, spice or unobtanium, both interstellar sci movies. It's great they got these directors together

[@janogabor7697]

@@nick_0 if you read the dune book then you know it's not really. Dune is about destiny and having your future pre-planned.

[@futbolusa]

@@nick_0 they are not the same at all. Dune is far more complex than that.

[@GrindhouseFunhouse]

I could’ve watch them talk about the love of their craft for hours. 2 legendary Sci-fi directors at the top of their game. Feeling that 🇨🇦 pride.

[@davidolden971]

As am I 🇨🇦!

[@BaldPerspective]

Is 🇨🇦 supposed to be California?

[@GrindhouseFunhouse]

@@BaldPerspective For Cameron sure. He’s been long gone but Denis still resides in Montreal.

[@davidolden971]

@@BaldPerspective When GindhouseFunhouse said “… Feeling that 🇨🇦 pride.” That translates to “… Feeling that [Canadian] pride.” 🇨🇦 is the Canadian flag, because both Denis Villeneuve and James Cameron are Canadian. You *can* tell the difference between a maple leaf and a bear with the words “California Republic” under it, can’t you?

[@BaldPerspective]

@@davidolden971 I'm on my PC, so I can't see emojis. But good God, I am dumb lmao, I completely forgot they're both Canadian.

[@gman7774]

I absolutely love James Cameron’s idea of having a film that you can choose what kind of experience you want to have with it. Shorter and more immersive for theater or the full vision of the filmmaker (whether that be four or eight hours long) as an option for streaming. I loved the extended edition Lord of the Rings and always wished more movies had that treatment.

[@josuesanchezz]

Yes exactly and this has been tested on the world stage by one of the greats. Ingmar Bergman released a TV version and theatrical cut for his films: Scenes from a Marriage/ Fanny & Alexander. Offering different experiences with success.

[@DoubleO88]

Zack Snyder did this I think it's great and the canon version should always be the intended.

[@mkultra2456]

Yeah exactly, the extended Lord of the Rings is awesome but since it's so long you really need that pause button lol.

[@mkultra2456]

@@DoubleO88 Oh yeah the Snyder Cut combined with Man of Steel and BvS Ultimate Edition forms a decent trilogy. You forgive Snyder for killing off Superman in BvS because he gives you a pay off for that setup in the form of his Snyder cut Justice League film.

[@bighands69]

The only way they will be able to do that will if digital cinema can be 8k resolution and when filming they use a mixture of 35mm film and digital and work to the strengths of each medium. I think modern digital cinema has lost the magic of film and in doing that has pushed audiences back to the small screen. I seen Dune on IMAX and it was the best digital movie I have ever seen. Avatar in 3d was also fantastic, seen House of Gucci which looked amazing on a digital theatre as well. How to get audience back into the theatre will be tough unless the content gets better there is just only so much a general audience can take of Marvel and Fast movie franchises.

[@Toonksbell43]

Watching Dune in theaters was one of the best movie theater experiences I have had probably in my life. I felt every bit of it in my body, I love sci-fi space related movies and this one just caught me. Denis' ability to make things so personal and so large at the same time is the best.

[@JBDNFT]

Don't let him make a movie you don't like

[@kaimargonar1000]

@@JBDNFT denis villenueve's avatar?

[@MikeySkywalker]

For me it was the best. I've never had an experience where I was so afraid and so dreadful, but also so amazed and so happy.

[@Afraaz]

I get a warm fuzzy feeling hearing true artists being optimistic about the future of film

[@johnathanfichibmanfathal2457]

It is extraordinary to see that even though Villeneuve is well accomplished in cinematic storytelling, his childlike sensibility radiates to Cameron's myriad exposition of filming experience and ingenuity. Villeneuve's conversation with Cameron makes it evident to himself that he still has much to learn and his humility and sense of wonder will allow him to learn and achieve even more in his career.

[@ddc2957]

I don’t know about “much to learn.” Villeneuve is an all-timer in the making.

[@jaredsilvers2782]

@@ddc2957 we're all very lucky that Villeneuve in fact probably does have much to learn... just think about what he will have accomplished by the time he's Cameron's age.

[@jaredsilvers2782]

@@deanjustdean7818 I'm sorry what? Are you not familiar with James Cameron's filmography? You sound extremely uninformed. The only reason Villeneuve can do what he does, is because of what people like Cameron have done before him. This should be obvious to you considering how much Denis respects James and his work.

[@raukoring]

If you watch interviews with Denis, you'll find out that man is seriously humble. But not in the Hollywood way where they pretend to be humble.

[@abdulsameeh_666]

@@deanjustdean7818 you are being immature here bro.... "Fuck avatar , fuck baby movies" nice one.. u will have a great life Hating a person who does what he loves and also has a life unlike u

[@davidolden971]

They don’t say it out loud, but these two filmmakers truly love each other, in spirit and mind and craft and admiration. Great half hour!

[@BaldPerspective]

Hey again lol, they didn't need to explicitly say it, but I thought it was very touching when Cameron referenced the Na'vi & said, "I see you," to Villeneuve.

[@davidolden971]

@@BaldPerspective I forgot about the Na’vi! I guess he did say it out loud.

[@georgeorwell2296]

That love & passion for the art form. This is why they always deliver with their films.

[@afterburner94]

Crazy how Villeneuve just sounds like a beginner filmmaker who just got his first short film in the public eye and is talking to a legendary filmmaker. He's so humble and reverential to Cameron. Mark of a great human being.

[@simonkendra3079]

the humbleness while he could very well be seen as the best blockbuster director at the moment is just so refreshing

[@georgeclayton7466]

Cameron hits the absolute nail on the head about why i adore Denis films, when he talks about how Denis lets scenes linger and mature and create this epic sense of immersion. I love these stripped back and almost still life scenes in his films, where there isn’t 20 cuts and all this action and spectacle. He just presents you with this slice of the world and lets you ponder it. One strong shot like this would be in Arrival when you first see the ship with the clouds rolling in; the cut lasts a good 25 seconds and you fully feel the epic-ness of what is happening. Other directors would have made this massive thing and had camera wizzing all over the place, but not Denis!

[@KajiCarson]

@@deanjustdean7818 He's definitely a gift to cinema. Dune was a knock out of the park.

[@KajiCarson]

@@deanjustdean7818 Absolutely. Your word 'realised' is right, the whole movie oozes authenticity and grandeur. I like how Denis is now accepted as one of the 'cool kids', sitting at the same sci-fi table as Nolan, Scott, and Cameron. He seems awestruck himself at the fact; not burdened yet by any arrogance. He knows what he's doing. Eagerly awaiting Part II. What was this plot hole in the first one you found?

[@loganscott814]

@@deanjustdean7818 they had much bigger things to worry about than faulty equipment and they knew they'd make whatever they spent on equipment back. Hawat probably knew it was a possibility but they just had to make do until they could get better equipment.

[@loganscott814]

@@deanjustdean7818 the Harkonnen attack is the bigger problem. Leto did anticipate the attack, that’s why he was trying to get the Fremen on his side. He thought he had more time though.

[@kingmanic]

@@deanjustdean7818 They do mention the context of why Leto thought he had more time; the direct intervention of the emperor was unexpected. Dr. Huey was compromised due to his hatred, as he was conditioned to be loyal but he overcame it because he knew the forced aligned would kill Leto no matter what he did. So he chose to believe the kind of betrayal he committed would at least allow Jessica and Paul a chance and give Leto a shot at killing the Baron. His betrayal was the most unexpected factor as his mental conditioning to Leto should have prevented it. His team planned for the Harkonnen and also expected reasonable time to respond and deploy. So the Atreides was not given the time a functional shield would have provided, faced a force more than twice what they expected, and at least half the force of a much better quality and discipline than they expected. His team planned for the Harkonnen and also expected reasonable time to respond and deploy. Why didn't Leto plan for that? At some point if you are against such incredible odds, there is no productive purpose in planning even if the scenario is possible. For instance Ukraine could prepare for a Russian invasion but there is no point in planning for a Russian Invasion if the US threw their support behind Russia and block any NATO member from responding (a possibility if the US election has gone differently). They would simply be taken over. They can only plan for the most they could actually respond to. Anything further is a waste of time.

[@marcusshoults]

Cameron will forever be one of the most interesting legends of cinema ever. From directing some of the best movies ever made to setting records exploring the mariana trench and challenger deep, impossible to forget that guy. Villeneuve is quickly becoming another one, from Arrival, Bladerunner 2049, Dune and more, will be another pioneer of cinema too. Amazing to see these two have a back and forth; something I never expected. Thanks for this gem.

[@Chetan_patil]

and Nolan ??

[@BaldPerspective]

Don't forget that Cameron was a truck driver who taught himself about animation & compositing before Hollywood. He became a student under Roger Corman, & sold his Terminator script for a dollar despite it being a very-sought-after script because he was adamant about directing it. What an incredible life story. He maybe a bad person (I may have misremembered, but I believe he was physically abusive to Linda Hamilton when they were married), but he truly is the king of the world in film.

[@goodsaint_001]

@@Chetan_patil Nolan is no truck driver.

[@goodsaint_001]

Dune is the least interesting of his filmography. Stop overrating that shit. I pick BR2049 over it any f***king day.

[@jaredkingsley2243]

@@goodsaint_001 Just wait till part 2 comes out. Then it will become a complete film experience.

[@krnc17]

James was 100% spot on when he said: “marvel movies aren’t epic, even when whole cities are being destroyed”. I enjoy marvel movies, but you know they’re gonna get past it with only a scratch or two.

[@spacedavid]

I think this is an intentional choice by the studio so it would appeal to a wider audience, market and demographic. For example, they always put a joke or something funny or silly in most tragic moments. Sometimes people needed to hear "don't worry, they will be fine", because movies not always must be thought-provoking social commentary, but also serve as "turn off your brain" distractions from real world problems. That's why Marvel movies as a product are very successful.

[@MrDoom885]

@@spacedavid That makes no sense. Movies should be watched with a open mind not with your brain off. If that was the case then all movies would be winning Oscars and getting a lot of money.

[@spacedavid]

@@MrDoom885 ofcourse it should, there's no question about, but, unfortunately for us and very fortunate for movie studios it is. Popular mass market always been about "shutting brains off" and "don't think about it". Ask yourself this, how many times you listened lyrics of your favorite pop song beyond hooks?

[@MrDoom885]

@@spacedavid I don't listen to songs. When I do I'm very picky about it. "Turn your brain off" isn't my thing. In the eyes of an ordinary audience Marvel movies look epic because they don't understand what art is because as you said they turn their brains off. But in the eyes of filmmakers like James Cameron, the Marvel movies can't be epic, because legendary directors like James Cameron understands what art looks like, they have mastered the art of filmmaking and they understand that Marvel movies are flawed. Marvel movies never invent anything new. The mcu has been around for 13 years and throughout it's existence it never revolutionized filmmaking. They barely win any Oscars. DC however has introduced new things in their films. Like The Dark Knight trilogy for example, it made superhero movies entertaining with complex stories, and Zack Snyder's DCEU trilogy has amazing visual storytelling. Not a single MCU movie has been selected to be preserved at National Film Registry. MCU movies are forgettable. Anyone can make a movie. But not all movie can be cinema, because cinema is art.

[@spacedavid]

@@MrDoom885 yes, they know exactly what they making and who their audience is

[@ShadoSpartan44]

both Dune and Avatar have reminded me how awesome it is to see a movie in theaters. I thought i could capture enough of the movie theater experience at home but there's just something about sitting in a dark room and seeing this movie play out on a giant screen in front of you with true surround sound.

[@smileychess]

I’ve gotten close to it with a 128” projector and great speakers. But the level of surround sound, and watching with other people adds a whole other element. But at home I can pause if needed.

[@Crazy_Diamond_75]

You know, I didn't really think much of the first Avatar, but for whatever reason, WoW really struck a chord with me. A lot of people didn't like it because of the "lack of plot," but honestly, I just loved exploring the world alongside these kids on their own emotional journeys. And it's so rare to find fictional media that's trying to capture the depth and complexity of an ecosystem... Idk man, I'm with you here. It was really good.

[@Nurpus]

For a person who has been gridning away at a 1.5 billion movie trilogy for 12 years now, James Cameron looks surprisingly happy and content.

[@arachosia]

Well, he's got 700 million in the bank and gets to work on his passion project everyday. He should be one of the happiest people on earth.

[@miltonkiller707]

Has some of the best material at his disposal, proven magical stuff. He is genuinely talented. No point in wasting that on something banal, trivial, etc. Yet, I'm not sure that Avatar was his best move. He understands how to present the visual concept, but that's it. We get a kind of empty husk, really. I wonder if we are going to see a sweeping saga about some chosen infant who grows up to face monstrosities against the backdrop of an epic conflict which gives way to some environmental cataclysm as a non-character antagonist. I think he should get back to doing more brutal narratives. He can be trusted to deliver on those, I think, perhaps with some provoking to remind him of what he's supposed to be doing.

[@Rosie-yt8nd]

"you can watch a 2 hour more condensed version or 6 hours" i love this idea. i want this please

[@justanothervoice2538]

This has given me such a profound respect for both of these legendary artists, and I have the best hopes for the future of both of their franchises.

[@sammyruncorn4165]

Same

[@emiliomonroy7929]

I didnt realise how spiritually and cinematically similar Avartar and Dune are, and yet so diferent in their execution, can't wait to see Avatar 2 and Dune 2

[@MikaylaRickard]

So happy I stumbled upon this. Dune stole my heart the moment I left the theater and I love how detailed the author was and how much respect Villeneuve has for him and the work. Cannot get enough of him going into detail about the choices he made for the film!

[@yogi2983]

same here! I've watched all the interviews and I'm now reading the book. It's such a visual feast. Both directors are amazing.

[@TheDoubleFA]

If you enjoyed Dune I highly recommend my favorite work from him and that’s Blade Runner 2049!

[@pmhwong]

Just realized these 2 legends are both Canadian. This was a great conversation between 2 amazing directors and also movie fanatics, both displaying so much humility. Thanks for capturing. I so look forward to seeing the rest of Dune, and I damn sure hope I live long enough to have the privilege to see the entire Avatar series.

[@mkultra2456]

There's something about Canada that brings in good talent.

[@mkultra2456]

@samantha ssmith african lion safari

[@mkultra2456]

@samantha ssmith lulwut? Try writing proper sentences sweetheart. What the hell are you talking about?

[@j2174]

@samantha ssmith African Lion Safari is a place in Canada, bud. Or should I say bbud.

[@danthechauffeur1323]

Probably one of the most interesting interviews/conversations I've ever watched. Two of my favourite filmmakers discussing two of my favourite films is just a perfect way to spend half an hour. Better than any interviewer or chat show host on the planet could manage. Thank you both.

[@vincentsolis5149]

Cameron hit the nail on the head when talking about Epic. Scope is what the first star trek had but was lost in the sequels. These guys know how to display the grandeur.

[@Ssecave]

The idea of having the SAME movie but 2-3hours in cinema and a super extended cut 6hours in streaming/bluray would be awesome ! You watch first the 2-3hours version then if you want to can watch more world building, lore, exposition on other medias !

[@heyhey7423]

I was about to comment this! I think that it would be amazing to do movies like that (not all of them need it of course) but if the cinematic world is complex, vast and has more lore to tell, then i know a lot of people, including myself, that would pay money to see a longer, Indepth version of the story. I was so disappointed when i heard Avatar 3 was 8hrs, before James Cameron started to edit it, because it felt like we were losing so much material, story, world-building, and character interactions just to make it 2-3hrs.

[@yashsrivastava4611]

This is one of the most epic conversations ever. Two of the greatest to do it, and they are both Canadian to boot. Love to see it.

[@josuesanchezz]

The convo alone is more epic than any marvel film 😂

[@kayzee3595]

@@josuesanchezz Indeed.

[@jaredsilvers2782]

"to boot" pun intended?

[@yashsrivastava4611]

@@jaredsilvers2782 pun most definitely intended

[@vl2809]

Literally can't get enough of dune content. Love this!

[@masteroffun9627]

I can only imagine how much money that those sequels are going to make. It would be INSANE if each one of them would surpass each other for highest grossing movie of all time. James Cameron is quite literally the only director in the world that can make only 10 or 11 movies, the last one being released in 2009, and STILL be relevant to this day.

[@TWBB87]

I’m really worried by the time they come out, people would have sort of moved on from Avatar. But if anyone can hit the ball out of the park with a sequel, it’s James Cameron.

[@mangomariel]

@@TWBB87 nah, don't think so. Avatar was so insanely big that it is remembered like Titanic. And this time people are kindof tired of superhero movies, so Avatar will be a fresh breeze, once again.

[@Maitatron]

@@mangomarielWith this pandemic situation and streaming taking over movie theaters, you won't see box office big scores anytime soon, so box office records is out of reach, but if there is one movie that can bring people back to theater despite Covid, it will be Avatar 2.

[@jaredsilvers2782]

@@Maitatron I see you aren't keeping up with the box office performance of the new Spiderman film.... it's on pace to be the 2nd biggest box office film in history............... in the middle of a covid surge.

[@nobody....168]

@@jaredsilvers2782 Hype for avatar sequels will never reach the one nwh had since the first trailer and leaks . Tobey Maguire alone draw 2 generations of people to the film.

[@LionElAton]

These are better than any film school. Two greats teaching us (and each other), so much. Incredible.

[@Matazuma]

incredible, you can tell they both admire and respect each other

[@BrianHSC]

4:10 Wow, I remember Timothee saying in interview most people pronounces his name wrong as Timothy but James Cameron pronounced it right. I bet he's thrilled.

[@ezekel.4656]

I only wish DUNE was longer! Can’t wait for part 2!!

[@zenithquasar9623]

Yes, literally at the end I was like "why wasn't this film an hour longer" then realised it was already 2h 40 min mark lol. Ah well, we have more to look forward to at least now.

[@bighands69]

@@zenithquasar9623 It is one of those rare films that does not feel that long because it really draws you in.

[@Trazynn]

It also didn't feel a long because it didn't have the usual three part structure.

[@ThyAxeman]

Can critique his movies as much as you want, but when you hear Jim Cameron talk, you understand what a true visionary is.

[@jaredsilvers2782]

He gets a bad rap but ask any actual director, James Cameron is an absolute god of his craft.

[@miltontavares9506]

@@jaredsilvers2782 I bet he gets a bad rap by those MCU fanboys who get salty when someone criticize MCU. Cameron is a legend and his movies are classics from The Terminator to Avatar( I love it and it s truly epic).

[@Wildcopper]

Love the humility of Villeneuve. You both are true movie legends.

[@rikkityrik9694]

What a privilege to listen to this fascinating conversation between two of the greatest directors of our generation! For any aspiring directors, producers or even film critics out there, this is a must see/listen!

[@roguestar8]

I liked that James said "bonne chance" to Denis at the end

[@eun-solkim7080]

yes and i like that theyre both canadian

[@jickay]

Great idea doing directors on directors. Can't wait to see more If it ever expands again can we do composers or cinematographers or costume designers?

[@amonbeck]

^^^This! We want more craftspeople!

[@farhadniaz732]

Thats a good idea!^Listen to this guy.

[@jaredkingsley2243]

Denis has been getting a lot of love by great directors for dune recently. First his interview with Nolan and now one with Cameron. You can tell he is a great director when two of the all time great directors admire his work so much.

[@SAGAR0606]

Please give me a link of interview with nolan!🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@darknessnaxxion]

Well, Nolan isn’t great. To put it nicely: he’s a loser who has been doing the same schlock for 20 years.

[@buzzwithdrip6347]

@@darknessnaxxion his movies have same tone but he's made incredible films

[@darknessnaxxion]

@@buzzwithdrip6347 Not tone, themes.

[@OscarFilmForecast]

Two of our best modern directors of sci-fi. What a great conversation!

[@EarthKeeperSelinaMu]

And they are both Canadian! 🇨🇦

[@eddiecardwell]

Two literal geniuses and masters of their craft. I could listen to them discuss films for hours.

[@karenielsen4713]

I have faith in Cameron. And that he will deliever with the next movie. The first Avatar needed to be simple in its story in order to capture the biggest and broadest audience possible due to its massive budget. Now, with the world established, Cameron Can really be creative and maybe give us a T2-ish sequel ☺️

[@miltontavares9506]

Well, Cameron sure knows how to make great sequels. T2 and Aliens are just as memorable as the originals.

[@arachosia]

Exactly! People who are critical of Avatar's story don't understand this. I think there are additional reasons why the story intentionally not overly complex. 1) Avatar was among the first movies to use new 3D 2) most of the characters were 100% cgi 3)it took place on a strange alien planet. Nobody really knew how the general public would respond to these things. Maybe they'd be puking after an hour of wearing 3D glasses. Maybe they would have a hard time relating to 12-ft tall blue cat people. Maybe the visual aspect of Pandora would be overwhelming. You add all these factors in, plus the massive budget, and I think playing it safe with the story so people (whether it's your grandma or your little brother) could just kinda get immersed in the world and not have to also keep track of a convoluted plot was done on purpose. And I agree that now that Avatar has established a lot of the basics, the sequels will be more interesting and take more risks with their stories.

[@nobody....168]

@@arachosia The problem is he's made 3 more sequels already 🙄. Pandora universe may be saturated after the 2nd movie and moviegoers won't be engaged for the rest...If the second doesn't break the box-office again, rest sequels may bomb.

[@arachosia]

@@nobody....168 that’s a big “if.” I think anyone who doubts Cameron at this point is out of their mind. He’s bringing the big guns for part 2. I would bet everything I own that part 2 will be a massive success. Before covid existed, I was convinced Avatar 2 would be the first 3 billion movie. Now, that’s less likely, but it will still be a monster. Trust me, no one cares right now, but once the marketing campaign starts up, some hype will build. And then, just like every Cameron movie, word of mouth will catapult it to the moon.

[@ericpbee2147]

I could have watched 3 hours. Loved every minute of it.

[@Dani-rz8dj]

Denis is such a beautiful soul and talent. I’m in awe of him and his films. Arrival changed me forever.

[@shawnrcurrie]

Two of the industry's best!

[@RUDEMusicUS]

Avatar changed the game. Avatar 2 will as well. James Cameron is the greatest at sequels. Hopefully he moves it up to the summer next year!

[@SomethingSomewhereJustOnce]

I don't think Disney will give him one of their Marvel release spots. Instead they have given him their Star Wars release spot. I think December release is good since it won't have too much competition next year. Summer might get too crowded in 2022. Edit: Oh and the original Avatar was released in December so ig the release date for Avatar 2 is perfect.

[@vibangigan5336]

What did it change

[@SomethingSomewhereJustOnce]

@@vibangigan5336 The Game.

[@vibangigan5336]

@@SomethingSomewhereJustOnce Nah he just got some really amazing effects artist in the game. Realistically Marvel literally took over cinema the same time and actually changed the game. I feel like cameron stands really think he like the best director and he not very good but….

[@LukeLovesRose]

You should never underestimate James Cameron

[@pranayshrivastava1065]

7:41 That’s why James Cameron commands such respect. That he articulated the idea of having a deep dive via TV and crisply edited 2.5 hr version of the same movie is just what I want too. Make it happen please 🙏

[@krono5el]

Cameron is still my fave director of all time, the amount of times ive watched all his movies as a kid and every year is ridiculous : D

[@NeverSaySandwich1]

Why won't True Lies come to blu-ray 😥

[@arachosia]

I don't think he will ever be surpassed. Truly one of a kind. I do like Denis a lot too, though.

[@Chris-gw2xg]

Same here. He is such an inspiration. One if not the smartest directors out there

[@xGaLoSx]

@@Chris-gw2xg Ya, his intelligence is unmatched in the director world.

[@shaggycan]

Nice to see two Canadian directors! Listen to him Denis, let's see that long cut of Dune we all know can exist.

[@samazwe]

I'm praying for it. I want to see the banquet scene and Duncan's arrival on Arrakis

[@GomTiles]

That bit about the dividing line between the known and the unknown was very cool. I also really appreciate Villeneuve's attempt to bring humanity back to it's humility in the face of nature. Such a good conversation. And released on my birthday!

[@muncus9599]

Holy smokes what a treat! Two masters in their craft chatting about their craft. Love this. Thanks.

[@craigmurdock4740]

What Villeneuve said about lacking stamina after the first film gives me all the more respect for the insane amount of work the whole crew and Peter Jackson did on the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

[@SAGAR0606]

Absolutely correct. By watching those trilogy again and again i am still wondering how peter did that. And that even in early 2000s. Even when technology was completely new, no one could have ever imagined.👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 Game changing trilogy ever.

[@jamesmorgan4596]

Two parts. Three parts. Adding in your own content. I'm down for whatever. It was so inspiring that I wanted to try working in film again.

[@ChristianPauchet]

This is what KZbin was made for. Having 2 Living legends of the movie industry, James with his revolutionary development of cinematic technology and imagination and Denis with his artistic eye for epicness... Damn, I could hear them talk for days.

[@jefvarnadore2267]

Can’t wait for part 2 of both of their movies… two of my top 5 favorite directors.

[@everythingisawesome2903]

What are the other three? List in order.

[@jaredkingsley2243]

@@everythingisawesome2903 1. nolan 2. fincher 3. scorsese 4. villeneuve 5. ridley scott. no hate to james cameron but his most recent movie was alita battle angel which was good but not on the level of these other guys. im excited for avatar 2,3, and 4 to change my mind though

[@thepiousskeleton6046]

@@jaredkingsley2243 For me it's 1) Villeneuve 2) Eggers 3) Nolan 4) Scott. I don't have a 5th because I haven't watched enough Scorsese films to rank him and I typically find that I only enjoy one or two films from most directors rather than their whole bodies of work.

[@NukeMyHouse]

@@jaredkingsley2243 cameron didn't direct alita

[@kashutosh9132]

@@jaredkingsley2243 Cameron is not director of alita

[@har5814]

Love this Directors on Directors segment talking about their craft and insights on their filmmaking style and experience.

[@MuadDib27]

Damn Jim, you completely got me with dual cut viewing option. Yes absolutely, I will ALWAYS want to see the 6-hour cut of the film. Director’s cuts should be a mainstay, poor David Lynch’s Dune would agree. Let the studio sell the spark notes, allow the director be the direct provider of their pure vision. So, uh, Denis, how about a Dune supercut after Part Two? Great discussion.

[@mrcoatsworth429]

That would be awesome. I would also love to see that 4-hour BR2049 cut. But Denis said that it'll never happen because the theatrical version is his director's cut. Well, maybe one day...

[@MuadDib27]

@@mrcoatsworth429 he said it would never happen with the FIRST film. So no standalone Dune Part One Director’s cut. But nobody said anything about combining both parts in one film, with some deleted scenes added back in ;)

[@mrcoatsworth429]

@@MuadDib27 I was talking about the BR2049 4-hour cut never happening, but one can hope ;)

[@MuadDib27]

@@mrcoatsworth429 ah gotcha. BR2049 was great, and I wasn’t in love with the original. One can hope for sure!

[@joshberkin5567]

Personally I don't want to sit through a worse cinematic experience just to get the directors vision. I want the directors vision to be experienced in a theater. But I realize this means no six hour movies

[@BaldPerspective]

Watching this is a strong reminder why Cameron is my favorite film director; he has so many interesting ideas on technology, marketing, storytelling, directing in general, etc. Villeneuve is also great. He's easily making the most interesting Hollywood movies since the new millennium, pardon my hyperbole. I also absolutely love that Cameron made environmentalist propaganda the highest-grossing movie ever (twice, natch) & the shit-eating grin he tried to hide when Villeneuve talked about how important ecology is to the story of Dune.

[@dereknunn2699]

Jim is a genius. I truly believe the theatrical and episodic idea of storytelling could be a bright future for viewership imo

[@LAZISH]

That's exactly I thought of!!!!!

[@zhorozhekov7569]

A lot of anime do that. Demon Slayer movie was essentially what James Cameron described. The movie was an abridged version of that story arc, whereas the tv series was a more fleshed out 12 episode representation.

[@kashutosh9132]

@@zhorozhekov7569 Kind of different but still a good example

[@spacedavid]

Exactly, directors can release their full original vision, because those movies can 4, 5 and even 6 hours- basically mini series, and there's viewers already there for that. Plus studio can make buck on theatrical version by cutting 5 hour movie into 90 minutes.

[@davidpesekmuller3883]

I can totally see how gratifying it is for Denise to see Cameron's genuine enthusiasm and interest for his work 👌 great conversation.. Altho it's a little annoying how it's cut up and spliced together in places. I'd love to see the whole thing..

[@souslocean778]

Two of my all time favourite directors talking about their masterpieces, I must be dreaming. This was so interesting and fascinating, it could have been 2 hours long and I would have listened to it entirely. We need more of this kind of content.

[@supergv2235]

Avatar and Dune. 2 ground breaking films in the sci-fi genre.

[@Purple1984Rain]

What a compelling discussion. These are two of my favourite directors. Cameron is the best action director of all time imo. The attack on Pandora was an incredible action sequence and some of his best work. Villeneuve is simply a wonderful cinematic storyteller who takes his time to let his movies breathe and unfold for the audience.

[@arachosia]

Completely agree. What's so great about Cameron's action scenes is that you are always aware of exactly what is happening. He does a tremendous job of explaining to the audience where all of the characters are in space. And the slower pace of Villeneuve's work is so refreshing, compared to all the fast-cut bullshit that's out there.

[@paulroth1060]

i don’t know why but it makes my day when guys like these two are choosing to be friendly and show nothing but admiration for one another! they acknowledge the others craft, and then they acknowledge their team and the entire creative process of working on a film production/with actors and crew, post-production and so on. maybe it’s just me, but this makes it even “more” because of the fact, that it’s so easy to imagine them being negative and feel pitted against one another in animosity over whatever difference there is between them… what warm an fuzzy feeling! thank you, youtube algorithm for washing this up again amidst the media attention for Dune Part 2! it’s still a long way till christmas, but i think i’m gonna go ahead and wish for more female and male leaders/public figures to pass around love and also“down”. and show that there’s not need to bolster a giant Ego if one wants to succeed ❤

[@PoetPedro1976]

Easily two human beings who have earned respect and gratitude from audiences and generations the world over, thank you both!

[@Evolver10286]

Denis is quickly becoming one of best directors (if not the best) of our generation.

[@modelcitizen1977]

I love how much they appreciate each other. One at the top of the traditional cinema game with massive sets chock full of detail and costumes, while the other is at the bleeding edge of technology and literally defining the next generation of filmmaking. Take your flowers, gentlemen.

[@seven92023]

I'm looking forward to see Avatar 2 next year.

[@SamJKelly]

30 minutes of pure joy! The way they interact and how humble they are towards each others work is inspiring🙏

[@loganastrup6870]

Love coming back to this interview after having seen both Avatar the Way of Water and Dune Part 2! Both epic large scale sci fi films made by some really talented filmmakers. Can't wait to see the future Avatar movies and Dune Messiah!!

[@jthomas420]

James Cameron looks fantastic for 67. He looks healthier here than he has in years!

[@SAGAR0606]

Absolutely true

[@ADifferentVibe]

Going completely vegan helps.

[@zwick6890]

So nice to see two filmmakers at the top of their game that aren’t full of themselves.

[@2001aniket]

Directors geeking out over each other's work is just the thing you need to watch. Thank you for this!

[@TryptychUK]

What a fantastic conversation. So interesting to see the parallels between their work as well as their very different methodology and approach. One thing occurred to me is that they have both directed sequels to Ridley Scott films; I wonder what a three-way conversation with him would be like? A film director's masterclass.

[@robonick3607]

24:57 here’s the genius of Denis to abandon aesthetic pleasure to better depict and service the story.

[@ajking913]

Two EPIC Canadians. #represent I love that their process is drawn from their histories with a real interest in biology and biospheres.

[@mezmerized4lifejay654]

James Cameron is juat am amazing visionary in film. Avatar 2 is going to set the bar visually and story wise yet again. Truly an immersive, one of a kind experience

[@TrueBagPipeRock]

The blue water vs. the Red Sand. This video is a gem.

[@DocKnightS]

Truly a great conversation with a tremendous respect and admiration for each other.

[@andreimcallister1365]

This whole time, I never knew James Cameron was Canadian.

[@KingKam93]

Avatar: The Way of Water was a triumph. And now I'm waiting on Dune Part 2. The movie going experience has never been better.

[@craneanderson2317]

These two are always legendary pioneers as long as they're alive. They portrait visual scenes that I couldn't imagine in my mind. I remember when watching Dune in theatre, I cried, tears coming out from visual and sound sensation. The way it tamed me and made me humble is just unforgettable. God, thank Gd I'm alive to witness art from Cameron and Villeneuve.

[@donsan6404]

james just created a new way to view films... love this man.

[@miltontavares9506]

And paved the way for future filmmakers who pushed the boundaries of film like Denis.

[@hopenyavor5514]

What a treat to have stumbled on this. Much respect to this legends

[@FaithnSin]

I’m here for Jim Cameron; the man is a genius. I love him and every one of his films.

[@merijnheuvelmans6287]

Watching these masters just going back and forth with and complementing each other is fantastic.

[@YahbiiCot]

Every time Cameron comes out with something, it's a banger. Avatar was great in the theaters. I'm excited about its sequels. Too many people shit on him for no reason.

[@kayzee3595]

Most people hate those who are too successful and too perfect for them.

[@SAGAR0606]

@@kayzee3595 hahaha. Absolutely 😄😄

[@NeverSaySandwich1]

@@kayzee3595 Avatar was groundbreaking for its CGI and its world, but it wasn't a good movie. The story and characters were so one note and predictable. Cameron better have something big in store for the sequels because he's too talented to be wasting his time

[@SS-yr3ij]

@@NeverSaySandwich1 it was better than those copy paste marvel movies...or at least n terms of story and characters predictable as u said...at least Cameron came up with an original world

[@EarthKeeperSelinaMu]

@@NeverSaySandwich1 Avatar was brilliant and too far ahead of its time for some

[@reubenm.d.5218]

We've all heard the Avatar hot takes, but you have to admire that dedicating so much of your life to a project is absolutely bonkers

[@pucirepu]

23:30 you can tell that Villeneuve was so excited when Cameron nailed it on the head haha. Talking about geniuses get geniuses!

[@darrenjoe674]

From Canada and love it that both King of the world and Denis representing. Great conversation!

[@joydavis4087]

Aweee I love this. ❤ Thank you Mr. Cameron and Mr. Villeneuve.

[@aliveasalways]

Just two amazing directors geeking out over science, CGI and camera works in general - damn! What a conversation!

[@nottoday3878]

fans of eachother

[@zenithquasar9623]

I love the works of both of these directors so much. Both understand creating cinematic presence/grounded reality so well!

[@KameronMcQueen]

What a gift this conversation is 🙏🏽

[@roshansrinivas8729]

Thank you Variety! this was amazing

[@user-vc5rp7nf8f]

arrival was a masterpiece. best sci-fi movie i've seen in recent memory. it was such a mature, realistic, unique approach to an alien encounter, and so philosophically done. casting amy adams was great. she had such a warmth and shyness to that character that made it work.