Watch Mysterious Skin Featurette: Interview with Gregg Araki

Mysterious Skin is a thought-provoking drama film that explores the themes of trauma, memory, and identity. It is directed by Gregg Araki, who is known for his provocative and experimental approach to filmmaking. The movie is based on the novel of the same name by Scott Heim and was released in 2004. In this featurette, we get an exclusive interview with the director, Gregg Araki, who provides an inside look into the making of the movie. Araki talks about the challenges he faced bringing the novel to the big screen and his unique vision for telling this complex and emotionally charged story.

Araki reveals that he was drawn to the novel because of its powerful portrayal of trauma and its impact on the human psyche. He felt a deep connection to the two main characters, Brian and Neil, who are both survivors of sexual abuse. Araki explains that he wanted to explore the different ways in which trauma can manifest itself in individuals and how it shapes their lives.

The director also discusses the casting process and how he chose the actors who would bring his characters to life. Joseph Gordon-Levitt plays Neil, a troubled and promiscuous teenager who is searching for the truth about his past. Araki explains that he was impressed by Gordon-Levitt's dedication to the role and his ability to convey the complexities of Neil's character.

Araki also speaks about Brady Corbet, who plays Brian, a quiet and introverted boy who is haunted by memories of his childhood abuse. Araki reveals that Corbet was the first actor he cast and that he knew immediately that he was perfect for the role. He praises Corbet's natural talent and his ability to convey Brian's inner turmoil without a lot of dialogue.

Throughout the interview, Araki provides a fascinating insight into his creative process and how he approached directing such a sensitive and challenging story. He describes how he worked closely with the actors to ensure that they felt comfortable with the subject matter and that they were able to convey the emotional depth of their characters.

The featurette also includes behind-the-scenes footage and clips from the movie that give viewers a sense of the film's visual style and tone. Araki reveals that he wanted to create a dreamlike atmosphere that would enhance the sense of detachment and dissociation that the characters experience.

Overall, the Mysterious Skin Featurette: Interview with Gregg Araki provides a compelling and illuminating look at one of the most thought-provoking and emotionally impactful movies of recent years. Araki's insights and reflections on the film are a must-see for anyone who is interested in the creative process and the power of cinema to explore complex and difficult subjects.