Steven Soderbergh, Joe, and Anthony Russo discussed their 2002 collaboration, Welcome to Collinwood, at the Sands International Film Festival in St Andrews, Scotland. The film was produced by Soderbergh and George Clooney, featuring a cast that included William H. Macy, Isaiah Washington, Sam Rockwell, Luis Guzmán, and Patricia Clarkson. This project came after the Russo Brothers’ unsuccessful debut feature, Pieces, which Soderbergh had taken an interest in despite its poor reception at Slamdance in 1997. Welcome to Collinwood was a comedic crime caper set in Cleveland, where a group of thieves and misfits try to pull off a major heist.
The collaboration between Soderbergh and the Russo Brothers led to the creation of Welcome to Collinwood, a film that had not been screened in the UK since 2003. Despite its lackluster box office performance, the filmmakers praised Warner Bros. for supporting their vision of making a personal and quirky movie inspired by 1930s serial comedies. Soderbergh reflected on his own experimental phase after the success of sex, lies and videotape, where he explored smaller and more unconventional projects like Kafka, The Underneath, and Schizopolis. He admitted to pushing boundaries too far, which affected his standing in Hollywood.
As the Russo Brothers transitioned into big-budget blockbusters like Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Avengers: Endgame within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, they sought advice and references from Soderbergh, who vouched for them with Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige. Soderbergh questioned their motives for taking on these projects but ultimately supported their passion for comic books and storytelling. The trio’s discussion at the festival shed light on their unconventional paths in the industry and highlighted the importance of following creative instincts and dreams.
During the Q&A session, the filmmakers emphasized the need for filmmakers to prioritize their artistic vision over constraints like time and money on set. Soderbergh shared his belief in the future of filmmaking, citing advancements in technology like AI as potential tools for lowering barriers to entry in the industry. Joe Russo expressed optimism about the evolving landscape of cinema, foreseeing a shift towards more accessible and innovative methods of storytelling. The audience, comprising local enthusiasts and university students, engaged with the filmmakers as they reflected on their career trajectories and creative processes.
The conversation at the Sands International Film Festival provided valuable insights into the collaborative spirit and determination of filmmakers like Steven Soderbergh and the Russo Brothers. Despite facing challenges and setbacks along the way, they remained committed to pushing boundaries and exploring new avenues in storytelling. Their discussion highlighted the importance of pursuing passion projects, seeking mentorship, and embracing technological advancements in the evolving landscape of filmmaking. The audience left with a renewed sense of optimism and inspiration for the future of the industry, driven by a shared belief in the power of storytelling and creativity. The festival’s success in hosting such a distinguished panel underscored its commitment to fostering dialogue and promoting a shared vision for the future of cinema.
