INTERVIEW - John Michael McDonagh on his break to the states, meeting new people, working with different crews at 'War o

The transcript discusses the speaker's move to the United States and their approach to surrealism in film. They reflect on the influence of surrealist artists like Dali and René Magritte, emphasizing the confrontational and anti-authoritarian roots of surrealism. The speaker describes their journey to America as an adventure and a personal growth experience, meeting new people and working with different crews. They also discuss the influence of surrealist filmmakers on their work, particularly in the film Calvary, which incorporates anarchic and non-religious themes.

What was the speaker's approach to moving to the United States?

• They were hesitant and unsure about the decision.

• They were indifferent and did not care much about the move.

• They saw it as an adventure and a chance to meet new people.

• They felt it was a big leap and put a lot of pressure on themselves.

How does the speaker describe the evolution of surrealism?

• It has shifted towards realism and away from surrealism.

• It has remained confrontational and anti-authoritarian.

• It has become more commercialized and less confrontational.

• It has become more focused on religious themes.

What was one of the reasons the speaker wanted to go to America?

• To escape from their previous work in Ireland.

• To explore new opportunities and work with different crews.

• To collaborate with Dali and René Magritte.

• To focus on religious themes in their films.

Which surrealist artist's work did the speaker find amazing?

• René Magritte

• Pablo Picasso

• Salvador Dali

• Louis Bunuel

What theme did the speaker incorporate into 'Calvary' influenced by Bunuel?

• Commercial success

• Romanticism

• Religious devotion

• Anarchy and challenging religious beliefs