British director Scott Weintrob, renowned for his successful commercial directing career, has unveiled his first feature film, “The Paradox Effect,” at the Rome Film Festival. Known for his exquisite work in commercial production, Weintrob’s transition into the world of feature films feels like a natural evolution inspired by his lifelong love for cinema.
From the days of his youth, when a cinema visit was the only time Weintrob could be silenced, his passion for film was evident. Despite his foray into feature films, he affirms his commitment to commercials, drawing inspiration from legendary directors like Scorsese. His commercial experience, especially in cars and documentary-style commercials, influenced his approach to the “Paradox Effect.”
Scott tells us, “I love movies. As a kid, I talked so much, and the only place my mother had peace was in the cinema; it was the only time I would be quiet. That’s when I fell in love with movies. I will always make commercials. My favorite movie directors never stopped making commercials; Scorsese just shot a Chanel spot. In commercials, my work focuses on cars or documentaries; these styles are clear in my approach to the Paradox Effect.”
The movie stars the critically acclaimed Harvey Keitel and Olga Kurylenko. Says Scott, “Harvey and Olga are artists. I loved working with both of them. Harvey likes to break down the character in each scene, and through this experience, you form a wonderful bond as you design the role together and craft the character in collaboration.”
Scott elaborates, “Olga is superb at everything she does; she can drive, she can fight, she can be motherly or an action hero. She is a delight. I would happily make Olga movies forever.” The film Paradox Effect follows the story of an ex-junkie who witnesses a murder. She is forced to cooperate with the killer to save her daughter’s life. She must fight time, the police, and the criminal underworld to save the only person who means something to her.
Weintrob’s experience with them was deeply collaborative. “My documentary background working with David LaChapelle and Apple set me up for designing narrative that always felt in the moment and real.” Scott explains, “While Keitel delved deep into character building, Kurylenko showcased versatility, transitioning seamlessly from motherly roles to action sequences.”
“The Paradox Effect” revolves around the principle that individuals alter their behavior when observed. This poignant theme resonates with the storyline, which touches on desperation, morality, and the profound extent to which one would go to safeguard one’s family. Drawing inspiration from his own background, including his upbringing in London, Weintrob ensured an authentic representation of the film’s gritty environment.
Directing a feature film presented a unique set of challenges for Weintrob, especially with the time constraints of shooting an independent movie. He credits his vast experience in high-level commercials for his ability to handle the intense pressures of shooting a thriller within a tight schedule.
Scott goes on to tell us, “Directing an independent movie has nothing in common with a commercial. We had 18 days with actors and three days without talent. The speed at which we shoot is incredible, and there is no time for alternatives; what you shoot, you will use. I would have an intricate plan and approach to each shoot day, but things change, and you need to be able to think and move. Commercials typically are one or two-day shoots; we were prepping for 21 days with movie stars – if we use the Commercial ratio of 1 day per 30 seconds, then we would need 180 days for 90 minutes… Experience is everything when shooting a thriller in a short space of time, and that’s where my work in high-level commercials really provided an incredible background.”
Filming in Bari, Puglia provided the movie with an unparalleled backdrop. The lesser-seen gritty side of Italy added texture to the narrative, turning the location itself into a significant character.
Weintrob’s passion and commitment are palpable when he recalls working diligently alongside Harvey Keitel to perfect a scene, reflecting his protective stance towards actors. Action sequences, an evident strength for Weintrob, promise to leave audiences spellbound, with a car chase and a visceral fight scene poised to be highlights of the film.
Inspired by cinematic masterpieces and directors like Hitchcock, Scorsese, and Nolan, Weintrob has infused “The Paradox Effect” with intense action and profound character depth. But, the director’s journey wasn’t without its learnings. From working with a passionate Italian crew to humorous moments with Keitel, Weintrob’s directorial debut was a profound journey of discovery.
“Paradox Effect is an exceptional script that I knew it would allow me to design a high-impact car chase alongside the most beautiful performances. I want to make action movies that have authentic characters, and this movie is an excellent example of exactly that.” Says Scott
As “The Paradox Effect” sets sail into the vast ocean of cinema, Weintrob looks forward to it living its own life, resonating with audiences globally. The recent Premiere at the Rome Film Festival 2023 was the promising start of what is sure to be a successful film journey. With Rome’s historical beauty as its launchpad, this cinematic masterpiece is set to etch its mark in the annals of film history.
