Blank Check with Griffin & David – Episode: Duel (January 5, 2025)

Hosts: Griffin Newman and David Sims
Producer: Ben Hosley
Description: In this episode, Griffin and David dive deep into Steven Spielberg's early career through his groundbreaking TV movie, Duel. They explore the film's intricacies, Spielberg's formative years, and the lasting impact of Duel on his illustrious career.

Introduction

Blank Check with Griffin & David marks the beginning of its 10th year with a special focus on Steven Spielberg's early work, particularly his seminal television film, Duel. Hosts Griffin Newman and David Sims, along with producer Ben Hosley, embark on an insightful journey to dissect this underrated masterpiece and its significance in Spielberg's repertoire.

Overview of Duel

Duel is a 1971 TV movie directed by Steven Spielberg, which later received a theatrical release due to its success. The film centers on a man, portrayed by Dennis Weaver, who is relentlessly chased by a mysterious truck driver on a remote highway.

Notable Quote:

• Griffin (00:22): "The killer's weapon. A 40-ton truck. The victim's only defense. A startling podcast trap."

Spielberg's Early Career

The hosts delve into Spielberg’s beginnings, highlighting how Duel was his first major directorial effort. They discuss the challenges Spielberg faced when transitioning from aspiring filmmaker to working within the constraints of a TV movie format.

Key Points:

• Spielberg's tight-lipped nature about his personal life until recently.
• The influence of his parents and early experiences on his filmmaking style.
• The technical and creative limitations of TV production in the early '70s.

Notable Quote:

• David (16:08): "Steven Spielberg, born to parents Paul Dano and Michelle Williams... there's been some controversy over his birthday because it's often recorded as happening in 1947."

Analysis of Duel

Griffin and David provide an in-depth analysis of Duel, examining its narrative structure, character development, and thematic elements. They appreciate the film's ability to generate suspense and horror without relying on supernatural elements.

Key Points:

• The ambiguity of the truck driver’s motives adds to the film’s tension.
• Spielberg’s use of limited dialogue and reliance on visual storytelling.
• The psychological portrayal of Dennis Weaver’s character as an "everyman" facing inexplicable terror.

Notable Quotes:

• David (12:01): "He's had a couple of hits in those '70s '80s range for sure."
• Griffin (80:37): "This isn't supernatural. This is some guy."

Filmmaking Techniques

The discussion highlights Spielberg's innovative camera work and editing techniques in Duel. They commend his ability to create a cinematic experience within the confines of a television production.

Key Points:

• Strategic camera placements, including shots mounted on the truck and car.
• The effective use of silence and minimalistic dialogue to heighten tension.
• John Williams’ score and its role in augmenting the film's suspense.

Notable Quote:

• Griffin (70:53): "He has better action sequences later in his career, but I'd argue those are largely a product of he knows how to build a better movie around those sequences."

Personal Anecdotes and Reflections

The hosts share personal stories related to the themes of road rage and the fear of being followed, drawing parallels between their experiences and the film's narrative.

Key Points:

• Ben recounts a frightening encounter with a tractor-trailer that echoed the movie’s central premise.
• Griffin reflects on his own discomfort with driving and how Duel reinforces his anxieties.
• David discusses the universal fear of unexpected threats while on the road.

Notable Quotes:

• Ben (92:03): "We almost crashed into that. Truly. It was like the truck really almost led us to crash."
• Griffin (84:52): "I am terrified at the... driving."

Comparisons and Legacy

Griffin and David compare Duel to Spielberg’s later works, such as Jaws and Close Encounters of the Third Kind, while also referencing Dennis Weaver’s performances in other films like Unhinged.

Key Points:

• Duel as a precursor to Spielberg's ability to craft suspenseful, character-driven narratives.
• The evolution of Spielberg’s filmmaking from television to blockbuster cinema.
• Dennis Weaver’s portrayal in Duel compared to his roles in other genres.

Notable Quotes:

• Griffin (71:03): "I do think you watch this, and in the construction of the big showcase moments, the big set pieces, I would contend, like, he arrived fully formed as an action filmmaker."
• David (83:17): "We're all assuming right, it'll squeeze in."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with reflections on the enduring impact of Duel and its importance in understanding Spielberg's foundational skills as a director. Griffin and David express excitement for their upcoming deep dives into Spielberg’s filmography, promising more insightful discussions in future episodes.

Notable Quote:

• Griffin (135:19): "Year of miracles. Soundboard is back. Kim Ganday references out the butt. Early Spielberg Jelly trilogy on Patreon. It's 2025. Year of Miracles."

Final Thoughts

Duel stands as a testament to Steven Spielberg’s innate storytelling prowess and his ability to evoke fear and suspense through simplicity and innovative filmmaking techniques. This episode of Blank Check with Griffin & David not only celebrates an often-overlooked gem in Spielberg’s career but also sets the stage for a comprehensive examination of his subsequent works. Whether you’re a lifelong cinephile or new to Spielberg’s films, this episode offers valuable insights into the making of a classic thriller and the early signs of a legendary filmmaker.

Note: Advertisements, sponsorship messages, and unrelated segments were excluded from this summary to maintain focus on the episode's core content.