Greta Gerwig started out as the so-called "queen of mumblecore," appearing in low-budget movies by people like Joe Swanberg and the Duplass Brothers. She’s now one of the most sought-after actresses around, having landed supporting roles in movies like No Strings Attached and Woody Allen’s To Rome With Love. Her latest film, Frances Ha, reunites her with Greenberg director Noah Baumbach. Exquisitely shot in black-and-white, the film follows a young dancer struggling to figure out what to do with her life. Monica Castillo talked to Gerwig on the phone about co-writing the film, real-life experiences that inspired it, and the role dance has played in her life.

SHOW NOTES:

About Our Guest:

Greta Gerwig first rose to prominence as the star of several films considered part of the "mumblecore" movement, including LOL, Hannah Takes The Stairs and Baghead. She previously worked with acclaimed filmmaker Noah Baumbach in his film Greenberg, and she has had supporting roles in movies like No Strings Attached and To Rome With Love.

The Episode:

0:06 - Introduction and clip

2:21 - Did you enjoy making the movie? What was the writing process like?

4:12 - The characters feel very real.

5:45 - Are any of Frances' experiences based on your life or the lives of people you know?

7:16 - Do you want to do more work behind the camera?

7:40 - How did you reach the decision to shoot in black-and-white?

9:10 - Do you have a background in modern dance?

13:36 - Do you have a favorite dance company?

14:46 - How do you feel about being called the "queen" of mumblecore?

15:47 - Show close

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