Polygon:An Exploration of Steven Soderbergh’s TV Work and Filmmaking Style
Steven Soderbergh is known for his rebellious, innovative filmmaking style. From his Academy Award-winning directing skills to his knack for pushing boundaries, Soderbergh has made a name for himself in the industry. Collaborating with screenwriter Ed Solomon, Soderbergh has embarked on a fruitful journey, exploring different mediums and creating unique narratives.
The Experimental Journey: Mosaic, No Sudden Move, and Full Circle
In 2017, Soderbergh and Solomon released Mosaic, an interactive murder mystery app that challenged traditional narrative structures. While the app is no longer available, it has been re-edited into a compelling HBO series. In 2021, they surprised audiences with No Sudden Move, a thrilling, Elmore Leonard-inspired film that defied expectations. Now, they return with the complex and audacious miniseries, Full Circle, available on Max.
An Intriguing Narrative: Secrets, Wealth, and a Kidnapping
Full Circle revolves around the kidnapping of a child in New York, but there’s a twist—it’s not the targeted child. The incident unravels decades of hidden secrets and exposes a conspiracy spreading across continents, families, and generations. Soderbergh and Solomon expertly combine their storytelling skills, with Solomon’s interest in secrets serving as a driving force behind the narrative. The cast includes both established actors like Timothy Olyphant, Claire Danes, Dennis Quaid, and CCH Pounder, as well as promising up-and-comers. Shot on location in New York, Full Circle showcases the city like never before.
Continued Exploration: Command Z and Soderbergh’s Bold Choices
In addition to Full Circle, Soderbergh surprised fans with the premiere of Command Z. Breaking away from the style and themes of Full Circle, Command Z blurs the line between film and series. Soderbergh’s filmography is filled with bold choices, whether it’s shooting on iPhones or experimenting with lo-fi projects starring unconventional leads. His creativity knows no limits.
A Conversation with Steven Soderbergh: Filming Style and TV Work
Polygon had the opportunity to speak with Soderbergh about Full Circle and his filmmaking style. During the interview, Soderbergh touches on his preference for handheld, roving shots and how they vary between The Knick and Full Circle. He emphasizes the importance of capturing the energy of a scene while maintaining elegance in the cinematography. Soderbergh’s efficiency on set allows his crew to stay fresh and ensures maximum productivity. He recognizes the hard work of his team, aiming to avoid exhausting them with unnecessarily long hours.
Shooting Schedule and Editing Process
Full Circle’s shooting schedule spanned approximately 72 to 73 days, which falls in between the length of shooting both seasons of The Knick. Typically, Soderbergh spends around 35 days on a two-hour movie. However, Full Circle underwent substantial reshoots and editing, resulting in the removal of 65 to 70 minutes of footage and the addition of reshoots. The editing process was a substantial overhaul, showcasing Soderbergh’s commitment to crafting the best possible final product.
A Love for Locations: Showcasing New York’s Hidden Gems
As a New Yorker himself, Soderbergh took great care in utilizing the city’s diverse locations in Full Circle. Even venturing into lesser-known areas, the series embraces the essence of different neighborhoods. Soderbergh’s attention to detail is evident in the way he utilizes iconic locations like Washington Square Park. His familiarity with the spaces allows him to maximize their impact, strategically incorporating each entrance, exit, and bench into the narrative.
In Conclusion
Steven Soderbergh’s exploration of various mediums and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling is evident in his recent projects. From Mosaic to Full Circle, he continues to captivate audiences with his unique vision. Through his candid insights into his filmmaking style and the production process, Soderbergh’s passion for his craft is undeniable.