Ep 1. James Franco + Marina Abramovic

James Franco, the actor, writer, and director, meets Marina Abramovic, a performance artist, in the first episode of the sixth season of Iconoclasts. Both artists are known for pushing boundaries, so it's an intriguing pairing.

The episode begins with Franco visiting Abramovic at her studio in upstate New York. The two artists immediately bond over their love of art and their unconventional approaches to creativity. Franco is fascinated by Abramovic's work, which often involves extreme physical endurance and tests of willpower. They discuss her famous piece, "The Artist is Present," in which she sat in the MoMA for 736 hours, inviting visitors to sit across from her and share a silent moment of connection. Franco is in awe of the piece and the emotional impact it had on both Abramovic and the participants.

Abramovic takes Franco outside to show him her new project, a garden designed to be a spiritual sanctuary. Here, Franco sees another side of Abramovic's artistry, her passion for nature, and her desire to create spaces of peace and tranquility.

The conversation then turns to Franco's work, and Abramovic expresses her admiration for his innovative approach to storytelling. They discuss his collaborations with Seth Rogen and his interest in adapting difficult literature, including Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian." Abramovic notes that Franco's work often deals with violence and darkness, and she wonders where he draws the line between his art and life.

The two artists then head to a nearby cafe to continue their conversation. Franco asks Abramovic about her experience growing up in Yugoslavia and how it affected her art. She shares stories about her grandmother's spiritual practices and the trauma of living through the war in the '90s. Franco is struck by Abramovic's openness and vulnerability, and he reflects on his own privileged upbringing and the challenges of finding authenticity in Hollywood.

The episode ends with the two artists reflecting on the importance of art and how it can serve as a tool for healing and transformation. Franco speaks about his own struggles with mental health and how creating art has helped him cope. Abramovic agrees, adding that she sees her work as a way of finding a deeper connection to the world and to others.

Overall, this episode of Iconoclasts is a powerful exploration of two artists who may seem different on the surface but share a common desire to challenge and transform through their art. Viewers get an inside look at their creative processes as well as their personal philosophies, making for a thought-provoking and inspiring viewing experience.