Impressive Success of *Barbarian*
In 2022, filmmaker Zach Cregger made a significant impact with his film *Barbarian*.
Audience Reactions
As audiences slowly resumed their theater visits post-pandemic, they were treated to a shocking cinematic experience reminiscent of iconic Nicole Kidman monologues. According to a review from *The Hollywood Reporter*, those who were open to the film’s bizarre journey were thoroughly pleased.
Box Office Triumph
Thanks to positive word-of-mouth and remarkable box office persistence, *Barbarian* grossed $40 million domestically against a budget of under $5 million. This made it one of the standout success stories in the post-pandemic film landscape.
Upcoming Project: *Weapons*
By the time Cregger was preparing his next project, *Weapons*, Hollywood was eager for more. The script, featuring a mystery where 17 children from a single classroom vanish overnight, ignited a bidding war, ultimately won by New Line Cinema.
Cregger’s Background
Before *Barbarian*, Cregger was known mainly for being part of the comedy group *The Whitest Kids U’ Know* and for various roles in TV comedies. With *Weapons*, which is set for release on August 8 and has received acclaim, he has firmly established himself as one of Hollywood’s sought-after directors.
Creative Inspiration
Cregger revealed that the inspiration for *Weapons* emerged during post-production of *Barbarian* after the tragic loss of his best friend. He shared how he wrote from a deeply emotional place, focusing on catharsis rather than ambition. He described the story’s emergence as a gradual process of discovery, akin to being a paleontologist uncovering a dinosaur bit by bit.
Character Perspectives and Personal Themes
Cregger discussed the choice to structure *Weapons* in chapters from different characters’ viewpoints, influenced by Jennifer Egan’s *A Visit from the Goon Squad*. He emphasized the importance of keeping each perspective clear to the audience. Additionally, he connected the film’s themes to his personal history with alcoholism, integrating autobiographical elements into the story while intending for audiences to enjoy the film without his personal commentary overshadowing it.
