Summary of "Bring Her Back: An Interview with Danny & Michael Philippou"
Podcast Information:
- Title: Last Podcast On The Left
- Host/Author: The Last Podcast Network
- Episode: Bring Her Back: An Interview with Danny & Michael Philippou
- Release Date: May 29, 2025
Introduction
In this special episode of Last Podcast on the Left, the hosts engage in an in-depth conversation with Danny and Michael Philippou, the creative minds behind acclaimed horror films like "Talk to Me" and their latest project, "Bring Her Back." The episode delves into their journey from amateur YouTubers to professional filmmakers, exploring the inspirations, challenges, and creative processes that define their work.
Journey from YouTube to Filmmaking
Danny and Michael Filipou share their evolution from creating stunt videos on YouTube to directing feature-length horror films. They discuss how their early experimentation with stunts and extreme performance art laid the foundation for their storytelling abilities.
Michael Filippo: "The YouTube stuff was just practicing to become filmmakers. That was always the goal, always the aim." ([04:44])
Danny Filippo: "Horror movies are probably my favorite genre of movies." ([02:51])
Deep Dive into "Bring Her Back"
The conversation shifts to their latest film, "Bring Her Back," highlighting its release, critical reception, and the thematic intricacies that set it apart in the horror genre. They emphasize the film's "lived-in" feel, world-building, and character development that resonate deeply with audiences.
Unknown Host: "Bring her back is kind of also the same where you're dropped into a world that's already going like, can you..." ([09:02])
Michael Filippo: "We’re designing right now that is like the hand of Talk to Me to the Bring Her Back universe." ([10:10])
Inspirations and Influences
Danny and Michael cite a range of influences, from classic horror staples like "The Shining" and "Exorcist" to modern films such as "Hereditary" and "Let the Right One In." They discuss how these films inform their approach to creating suspense, building narratives, and developing complex characters.
Michael Filippo: "I love world building. I love, like, building out the Bible and the backstory..." ([09:27])
Unknown Host: "My truly favorite modern horror film is Hereditary..." ([35:28])
On-Set Experiences and Challenges
The Philippou brothers recount various on-set anecdotes, including interactions with actors, the challenges of shooting intense scenes, and maintaining a collaborative environment. They emphasize the importance of trust and flexibility during the filmmaking process.
Danny Filippo: "We are blown away by everyone. Especially with young actors and everything." ([56:10])
Michael Filippo: "There’s no such thing as a bad take... it’s about finding it." ([56:35])
Future Projects and Ambitions
Looking ahead, Danny and Michael discuss their plans for future projects, including potential sequels to "Talk to Me" and "Bring Her Back," as well as a documentary on Death Match Wrestling. They express enthusiasm for expanding their creative horizons while staying true to their passion for horror.
Michael Filippo: "We are going to do the documentary next." ([36:46])
Danny Filippo: "People are going to be coming to see them if you make them." ([37:00])
Personal Stories and Lighthearted Moments
The interview is peppered with humorous exchanges and personal stories that showcase the Philippou brothers' camaraderie and unique sense of humor. From playful banter to shared childhood memories, these moments add depth to their personalities beyond their professional achievements.
Unknown Host: "Do you ever get in fight as brothers?" ([23:20])
Danny Filippo: "We used to fight people in the neighborhood. Yeah, we were pretty cool." ([23:25])
Reflections on Horror and Storytelling
Danny and Michael reflect on the essence of horror storytelling, emphasizing the balance between eliciting fear and evoking profound emotional responses. They discuss the significance of leaving certain elements unexplained to engage the audience's imagination, making their films more impactful.
Danny Filippo: "My biggest pet peeve with horror movies is when they over explain and you guys really leave it up to us to figure it out." ([11:47])
Michael Filippo: "It's terrifying because you can't differentiate that line now. And you're lost between those things." ([13:15])
Conclusion
As the episode wraps up, the hosts wholeheartedly endorse "Bring Her Back," positioning it as a standout horror film of the year. Danny and Michael express their gratitude for the opportunity to share their work and hint at exciting developments on the horizon.
Unknown Host: "One of the best horror movies of the year so far." ([57:08])
Danny Filippo: "We enjoyed being here. Have fun promoting the movie." ([57:50])
Notable Quotes:
- Danny Filippo: "Horror movies are probably my favorite genre of movies." ([02:51])
- Michael Filippo: "I love world building. I love, like, building out the Bible and the backstory..." ([09:27])
- Unknown Host: "Bring her back is kind of also the same where you're dropped into a world that's already going like, can you..." ([09:02])
- Michael Filippo: "We are going to do the documentary next." ([36:46])
- Unknown Host: "One of the best horror movies of the year so far." ([57:08])
This episode serves as an insightful exploration into the creative minds behind "Bring Her Back," offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of Danny and Michael Philippou's approach to horror filmmaking, their personal experiences, and their vision for the future.