WTF with Marc Maron Podcast - Episode 1634 Summary

Title: Episode 1634 - Ryan Coogler
Release Date: April 14, 2025
Host: Marc Maron
Guests: Ryan Coogler & Michael B. Jordan

Introduction

In Episode 1634 of WTF with Marc Maron, host Marc Maron engages in a deep and revealing conversation with acclaimed filmmaker Ryan Coogler, alongside his frequent collaborator, actor Michael B. Jordan. The episode explores Coogler's journey in the film industry, his creative inspirations, and his latest project, "Sinners."

Ryan Coogler’s Journey in Filmmaking

Ryan Coogler, renowned for directing impactful films like Fruitvale Station, Creed, and the culturally transformative Black Panther, shares his evolution as a filmmaker. He discusses his dedication to storytelling that delves into themes of identity and social justice, particularly within the African American community.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Coogler [28:05]: "I tend to make movies that explore stories about identity—my identity as an American, as an African American, a black man."

Discussing Fruitvale Station

Coogler reflects on Fruitvale Station, a raw and devastating portrayal of a police officer's killing of a young black man. He emphasizes the film's basis in true events and its enduring relevance amidst ongoing racial tensions.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Coogler [25:29]: "It was a devastating movie about a police officer killing a black young man. It's based on a true story, and all this stuff still happens and continues to happen."

Creed and Expanding the Rocky Franchise

Transitioning to Creed, Coogler discusses his role in revitalizing the Rocky franchise by introducing Adonis Creed, the son of Apollo Creed. He delves into the emotional connections and personal motivations that drove him to continue the legacy of the beloved series.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Coogler [56:09]: "Rocky was my dad's movie hero, so the idea for me was to let me make a movie where Rocky's got to overcome something and to let my dad enjoy that right now."

Black Panther and Its Cultural Impact

Coogler speaks passionately about Black Panther, highlighting its unprecedented success and significance in showcasing black culture and narratives on a global stage. He discusses the challenges of working within the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the responsibility that comes with directing such a pivotal film.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Coogler [60:17]: "I wanted to get every Black Panther comic that was ever written. And it was like, 'Yo, we'll be right with you.'"

Sinners: Blending Horror with Black-Centric Themes

Coogler introduces his new film, Sinners, a horror movie that intertwines blues music, mysticism, and vampire mythology. He explains his intent to create a unique narrative that honors black cultural elements while exploring darker themes.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Coogler [74:35]: "I wanted to deal with the archetypes in this movie...to feel like a blues song, something that you heard before, even though you heard it for the first time."

Personal Challenges and Creative Process

The conversation shifts to Coogler's personal challenges, including managing anxiety and maintaining balance amidst creative pressures. He discusses the importance of community, support systems, and staying true to his vision while navigating the complexities of the film industry.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Coogler [88:50]: "The biggest challenge is going to afford myself the confidence and space to know when a take is done, to know when a set is set up."

Collaboration with Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan joins the discussion, providing insights into his collaboration with Coogler. They talk about the synergy between directing and acting, the importance of mutual trust, and the creative dynamics that drive their successful partnerships.

Notable Quote:

Michael B. Jordan [16:42]: "My wife was a sign language interpreter before I convinced her to make movies with me."

Exploration of Music and Mythology in Sinners

Coogler delves into the thematic elements of Sinners, emphasizing the role of blues music and its deep cultural roots. He discusses how music serves as a vehicle for expressing pain and transcending it, blending mythological aspects with real human emotions.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Coogler [70:05]: "Black Panther with a mythological universe that, you know, the good guys and the bad guys. Everybody's black."

Conclusion

Marc Maron and Ryan Coogler conclude the episode by reflecting on the power of storytelling and its ability to shape and reflect societal issues. Coogler expresses gratitude for the opportunities to tell meaningful stories that resonate with diverse audiences, underscoring his commitment to impactful filmmaking.

Notable Quote:

Ryan Coogler [87:46]: "I had to go through what I went through with my other movies to be able to have the ability to do this."

Key Takeaways

• Identity and Storytelling: Coogler's films center on exploring and representing black identity and social issues.
• Cultural Impact: Black Panther marks a significant milestone in showcasing black narratives on a global platform.
• Innovative Projects: Sinners represents Coogler's venture into blending horror with deep cultural and musical themes.
• Collaboration: The strong partnership between Coogler and Jordan highlights the importance of trust and mutual understanding in creative endeavors.
• Personal Growth: Coogler openly discusses his personal challenges, emphasizing the importance of mental health and community support in his creative process.

Quotes with Timestamps

• Ryan Coogler [28:05]: "I tend to make movies that explore stories about identity—my identity as an American, as an African American, a black man."
• Ryan Coogler [25:29]: "It was a devastating movie about a police officer killing a black young man. It's based on a true story, and all this stuff still happens and continues to happen."
• Ryan Coogler [56:09]: "Rocky was my dad's movie hero, so the idea for me was to let me make a movie where Rocky's got to overcome something and to let my dad enjoy that right now."
• Ryan Coogler [60:17]: "I wanted to get every Black Panther comic that was ever written. And it was like, 'Yo, we'll be right with you.'"
• Ryan Coogler [74:35]: "I wanted to deal with the archetypes in this movie...to feel like a blues song, something that you heard before, even though you heard it for the first time."
• Ryan Coogler [88:50]: "The biggest challenge is going to afford myself the confidence and space to know when a take is done, to know when a set is set up."
• Michael B. Jordan [16:42]: "My wife was a sign language interpreter before I convinced her to make movies with me."
• Ryan Coogler [70:05]: "Black Panther with a mythological universe that, you know, the good guys and the bad guys. Everybody's black."
• Ryan Coogler [87:46]: "I had to go through what I went through with my other movies to be able to have the ability to do this."

Note: This summary focuses solely on the content-rich segments of the episode, omitting advertisements, intros, outros, and non-essential sections to provide a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the episode.