SAFDIE BROTHERS (Uncut Gems / The Smashing Machine / Marty Supreme) • Friday Rewind

In this Rewind episode of the Distraction Pieces Podcast, Scroobius Pip revisits his 2020 conversation with the Safdie Brothers—Benny and Josh—discussing their groundbreaking work, particularly *Uncut Gems*, which he hailed as a defining film of that year. The brothers reflect on the intense, immersive experience of making their films, emphasizing their commitment to realism, authenticity, and the emotional truth of their characters. They delve into their casting philosophy, highlighting the power of non-actors and real-life personalities like Julia Fox and the jeweler Marshall, whose natural performances elevate the film’s verisimilitude. The Safdies also explore their deep connection to New York City as a living, breathing character in their films, their innovative use of sound and overlapping dialogue, and the importance of movement and camera work in mirroring the psychological states of their protagonists. They discuss the evolving relationship between cinema and streaming, praising Netflix’s support for artistic vision and the transformative potential of Atmos sound. The conversation closes with reflections on their creative process, the fluidity of project development, and the idea that their earlier films were essential training for the masterpiece that is *Uncut Gems*.