Welcome back to The Bulwark goes Hollywood. I’m Sunny Bunch, the culture editor at The Bulwark, and I’m delighted to be joined today by director Bob Buington and star David Crumpholtz from the new film, “Lousy Carter,” which is now available on VOD and select theaters.
It’s a pleasure to have them here. I’ve had the opportunity to watch the movie multiple times, and it is truly entertaining. I highly recommend checking it out either online or in a theater near you. Make sure to watch the film first and then tune in to this discussion. So, thank you both for being here.
Bob: Thank you for having us.
Let’s dive right in. Bob, could you share the inspiration behind “Lousy Carter”? I understand that you began writing the script during the pandemic, which was a time of uncertainty and fear. Can you elaborate on the uplifting story you crafted about a dying professor?
Bob: Certainly. The idea for “Lousy Carter” stemmed from a voice in my head urging me to write a script, despite my initial reluctance. The pandemic’s backdrop of uncertainty and mortality served as a catalyst for me to finally embark on this creative journey. The narrative evolved into a poignant reflection on life and mortality, capturing the essence of the challenging times we were experiencing.
David, as you delved into the script, what aspects of the character Lousy Carter resonated with you? How did you approach embodying this complex and intriguing character?
David: Lousy Carter’s character intrigued me, particularly his perceived stupidity and self-awareness. I found his journey of self-discovery and acceptance compelling. I aimed to portray the nuances of his personality, exploring his unique traits and internal conflicts. It was a refreshing challenge to delve into a character with such depth and complexity.
Bob, the dynamic between the characters in the film, especially the contrast between Lousy Carter and Kaminsky, adds a layer of complexity to the storytelling. Can you shed light on the character dynamics and the casting decisions that shaped these relationships?
Bob: The interplay between Lousy Carter and Kaminsky was pivotal in driving the narrative forward. The casting choices, particularly David’s portrayal of Lousy Carter and the interactions with other characters, brought a distinct energy to the film. The exploration of contrasting personalities and hidden motivations added depth to the character dynamics, creating a compelling on-screen chemistry.
David, how did you navigate the transition from supporting roles to a lead role in “Lousy Carter”? What unique challenges and opportunities did this shift present in terms of character development and on-set dynamics?
David: Transitioning from supporting roles to a lead role required a shift in approach and perspective. As a lead, the focus shifted to creating a dynamic and multifaceted performance, steering clear of repetitive or one-dimensional portrayals. The responsibility of carrying the movie necessitated a deeper engagement with the character’s arc and interactions, elevating the storytelling experience.
As we wrap up, is there anything you feel we should highlight about “Lousy Carter” that we haven’t touched upon? Any key elements or insights you’d like the audience to know before watching the film?
Bob: We poured our hearts into making “Lousy Carter,” driven by a passion for filmmaking and storytelling. The collaborative spirit and dedication of the cast and crew brought this project to life, embodying the essence of independent filmmaking. We invite viewers to immerse themselves in the world of “Lousy Carter” and experience the journey we crafted with love and commitment.
Thank you, Bob and David, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. “Lousy Carter” promises to be a captivating and thought-provoking cinematic experience. To our audience, make sure to catch the film and witness the magic these talented individuals have brought to the screen.
This concludes our discussion on “Lousy Carter.” Stay tuned for more engaging conversations and insights on the world of cinema. Thank you for joining us.