Yorgos Lanthimos Admits Jealousy Over Safdie Brothers' Uncut Gems
The acclaimed Greek director reveals his envy for the masterful filmmaking techniques and casting choices that made the crime thriller an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Yorgos Lanthimos built his reputation on making audiences squirm. The Greek filmmaker specializes in boundary-pushing cinema that leaves viewers unsettled yet captivated. His early work Dogtooth still haunts with its twisted take on family control and social manipulation. When Lanthimos moved into English-language territory with The Lobster and The Favourite, he kept his weird sensibilities intact while reaching wider audiences.
Emma Stone became his go-to collaborator, proving that unconventional storytelling can find mainstream success when wrapped in dark humor. Lanthimos masters the art of tonal whiplash, mixing comedy with disturbing themes in ways that keep viewers guessing.
A Director's Rare Admission
Someone with such a distinctive vision rarely admits professional envy. But Lanthimos made an exception for the Safdie brothers' Uncut Gems. Speaking with Variety, he couldn't hide his admiration for the crime thriller that launched Josh and Benny Safdie into the spotlight.
"The rhythm is relentless, the sound too, I would even dare say that it's like watching a Robert Altman film that was dipped in acid," Lanthimos explained. "But all that can't describe the film accurately either. Ben and Josh have created their own complete world – as they usually do – within a real world, that of Diamond District in New York."
Masterful Balance and Casting Genius
What really impressed Lanthimos was how the Safdies balanced realistic elements with heightened drama. "The balance they achieved between the naturalistic and the heightened elements is masterful," he said. "I was always impressed – frankly jealous – by their casting skills and instincts."
The director praised their ability to blend first-time actors with seasoned professionals seamlessly. "They manage to create a seamless cast of characters by working with people that have never acted before all the way to veteran actors that in the end seem that they were meant to be part of the Safdies' universe."
Sandler's Career-Defining Performance
Julia Fox made her acting debut in Uncut Gems while Adam Sandler delivered one of his most intense performances. The casting risks paid off spectacularly, creating a frantic journey through greed and desperation in New York's diamond district.
"It's one of Adam Sandler's best performances – along with Punch Drunk Love and The Meyerowitz Stories – proving once more he's a truly great actor but also the perfect choice to play this character," Lanthimos noted. He emphasized how the human element made everything work within the Safdies' unique style.
"Because from within Ben and Josh's unique style and cinematic voice, it's the human element that stands out and makes everything fall into place, the flawed characters that we love, even in their most embarrassing moments."