Making "Frances" - Was the story of a lobotomized actress the right choice after Elephant Man?

In this episode, we delve into the journey of creating the film Frances. The conversation begins with a discussion about Mel Brooks' influence and his encouragement to pursue new projects with Jonathan after the success of "Elephant Man." The dialogue shifts to the production of "Frances," a film about the tumultuous life of actress Frances Farmer. Daniel and Jonathan explore the challenges and triumphs of working on such a compelling yet somber story, drawing parallels to other emotionally charged films like "The Whale" and "Casino." They discuss the significance of finding the right actors, highlighting the process of selecting Jessica Lange for the role of Frances Farmer. Lange’s performance is credited with being pivotal to the film's success, showcasing her depth and talent beyond her initial roles in "King Kong" and "Postman Always Rings Twice. The episode also touches on the difficulties of staying versatile in Hollywood, with anecdotes about the hurdles of transitioning from dramatic to comedic roles. The intricate dynamics of the studio system in Hollywood's golden era are examined, providing context to the film’s depiction of studio politics and power struggles. The conversation underscores the importance of authenticity and resilience in the face of systemic challenges, drawing lessons from Frances Farmer's story and its relevance to contemporary Hollywood. Overall, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at filmmaking, the importance of casting, and the enduring influence of classic Hollywood studio dynamics on modern cinema.