“This Grand Scope”: Inheritance Director Discusses Filming Spy Thriller with iPhone & Potential Divergent Series Reboot

Director Neil Burger continues to impress audiences with Inheritance, a thought-provoking thriller that offers a unique spin on the spy genre. Burger, known for his acclaimed works such as The Illusionist, Limitless, and the Divergent series, recently adapted Karen Dionne’s novel The Marsh King’s Daughter. This latest film showcases his talent for storytelling and his ability to blend different genres.

In Inheritance, Burger collaborates with Phoebe Dynevor, best known for her role in Bridgerton, who plays Maya—a directionless young woman thrown into chaos when her father reveals his secret life as a spy after her mother passes away. This film distinguishes itself in the espionage genre, centering on an ordinary character navigating extraordinary circumstances, all filmed using an iPhone for a fresh perspective.

During an engaging interview with ScreenRant, Neil Burger delved into the inspiration behind Inheritance, discussing a New York Times article that sparked the film’s concept, the implications of shooting with an iPhone, and his thoughts on a potential Divergent reboot amidst the resurgence of similar franchises following The Hunger Games prequel.

Inheritance: Reflecting on the “New Normal”in a Post-COVID World

“I wanted to create a narrative that existed in that world, and started writing something.”

ScreenRant: Inheritance is a great film, such a refreshing and grounded take on the spy genre. I know that you sort of conceptualized it during the COVID-19 pandemic, but I’d love to hear what inspired this idea?

Neil Burger: In April 2020, I came across a New York Times article detailing a reporter’s journey from Serbia to France. Despite the EU’s open borders, armed guards were present at every checkpoint, and towns were eerily empty. I was fascinated by that landscape and wanted to explore it in a narrative form rather than through a documentary format. I aimed to portray this ‘new normal’ while providing the thrilling elements of a spy narrative, ultimately leading to a globe-trotting adventure.

While many contemporary spy tales originate from novels, Burger’s innovative approach rooted in a real-world article about the pandemic’s impact on European borders reflects his narrative style. He eschews documentaries in favor of compelling storytelling, yet successfully infuses elements of documentary filmmaking into his fresh take on the spy genre.

The Movie’s iPhone Production: A Mostly Beneficial Experience

“It does have some shortfalls…”

Phoebe Dynevor as Maya walking down a street in Inheritance

It’s commendable how you remained committed to filming with the iPhone. What unique advantages did this bring to the production?

Neil Burger: Shooting with the iPhone proved to be a game changer. After working on The Marsh King’s Daughter, which was a complicated and cumbersome production, this process felt liberating. The lightweight nature of the iPhone setup allowed for swift movement and spontaneous camera placements without the formalities of traditional setups. Though we were limited to the native lenses and had to stay adaptable, the overall experience heightened the film’s intimacy while maintaining a grand scope, a rare combination in cinema.

Filmmakers increasingly embrace the capabilities of the iPhone; renowned directors like Steven Soderbergh have already used it creatively for films like Unsane.Despite the constraints of available lenses, Burger’s exploration of this medium demonstrates an exciting frontier for cinematic storytelling, suggesting he may continue utilizing this approach in future projects.

Burger’s Vision for Dynevor: A Choice Before Her Rise

“…she’s bada–, she’s witty, and she’s caustic, and she’s self-destructive…”

Phoebe Dynevor's Maya walking casually while putting on sunglasses in Inheritance

Maya’s character is the heart of the film. How did you find the right actress to embody her complexity?

Neil Burger: Even prior to her breakout in Bridgerton, I had noted Phoebe. During our Zoom interview while I scouted locations in Korea, she exhibited an undeniable toughness that resonated with Maya’s persona. Her ability to embody both the gentle and the gritty aspects of Maya’s character impressed me. The elements of caustic wit and self-destructive behavior she’s playing against stereotype showcase a side of her talent we had not yet seen. I was confident she could elevate the narrative, and she certainly did.

Mapping Sam’s Complex Backstory

“…all the pieces have to fit together…”

Rhys Ifans as Sam looking intensely while standing on a road bridge in Inheritance

There is a palpable air of mystery surrounding Sam’s character. How thoroughly was his backstory defined during the development of Inheritance?

Neil Burger: We meticulously crafted Sam’s backstory. Although the narrative appears spontaneous on the surface, there is substantial complexity beneath it. We wanted to ensure everything fit seamlessly within the plot. His experiences within the CIA and State Department are pivotal, and we purposefully made him a layered, morally ambiguous character—one that audiences grapple with while still finding relatable qualities.

Maya’s discovery of her father’s hidden life as a spy unfolds a dramatic tapestry of secrets that intersects with critical global issues, adding depths to the storyline. This detailed backstory enhances the film’s overall complexity, emphasizing the collaborative effort by Burger and Steinhauer in world-building.

Burger on Potential Divergent Reboot Plans

“…I’m sure that’s crossed Lionsgate’s mind to do it in a different way.”

Neil Burger: I’m aware that reboot possibilities may have crossed Lionsgate’s mind. However, I’ve not focused on it personally. What I appreciate most is the incredible cast and the collaborative experience we shared while creating that film. I cherish my involvement in the Divergent franchise and the essential roles it played in many careers.

While the original Divergent series occupied a unique space within the young adult genre landscape, it did not achieve the same commercial success as peers like The Hunger Games. With ongoing adaptations in the realm of fantasy and YA literature, there remains the potential for a revival without Burger at the helm.

About Inheritance

In Inheritance, Maya Dynevor discovers that her father’s past as a spy embroils her in an international conspiracy. As she seeks the truth, Maya must navigate a new world filled with danger, mastering her father’s skills along the way.

Stay tuned for more interviews related to Inheritance featuring:

Phoebe Dynevor
Rhys Ifans

Inheritance is now in theaters.

Source: ScreenRant Plus

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