Filmmaker Mark Pellington, known for his work on Arlington Road and The Mothman Prophecies, returns to The B-Side podcast to discuss two of his latest projects: Survive and The Severing. Both films are now available on VOD, and Pellington uses the conversation to explore his creative process, the business realities of independent filmmaking, and his enduring drive to work across the full spectrum of cinema.
The B-Side, produced by The Film Stage, centers on the movies that actors and directors make between their more famous works. The show's focus is on the passion projects and lesser-known entries that often reveal more about an artist's range. In this installment, Pellington, a filmmaker with a career spanning music videos, experimental shorts, and feature films, offers an open look at how he approaches each new project.
From Music Videos to Feature Films
Pellington's career includes some of the most memorable music videos of the 1990s, many of which aired on MTV. His work in that medium earned him recognition for its visual inventiveness and emotional intensity. He later transitioned to feature films, directing thrillers like Arlington Road and the supernatural drama The Mothman Prophecies, both of which have gained a cult following over the years.
In the podcast conversation, Pellington discusses how his background in music videos influenced his approach to narrative filmmaking. He also talks about the challenges of securing funding and distribution for independent projects, a topic that resonates with many filmmakers working outside the studio system.
Survive and The Severing: Two New Releases
Survive, a thriller, and The Severing, an experimental dance film, represent two very different sides of Pellington's artistic interests. While Survive leans into genre conventions, The Severing is a more abstract work that combines movement and visual storytelling. Both films are now available on VOD, giving audiences a chance to see Pellington's range in a single viewing session.
During the interview, Pellington talks about the motivations behind each project. He explains how The Severing allowed him to experiment with form and collaboration, while Survive offered an opportunity to work within a more structured narrative. He also touches on the practical aspects of releasing films directly to VOD, a route many independent filmmakers have taken in recent years.
The Business and the Art
Beyond the creative details, Pellington is candid about the business side of filmmaking. He discusses the need to balance artistic integrity with commercial viability, and how he navigates the expectations of financiers and distributors. This behind-the-scenes perspective is a key part of The B-Side's appeal, as it offers listeners a realistic view of the industry.
The podcast also highlights Pellington's willingness to engage with fans and aspiring filmmakers. He shares insights into his workflow, his sources of inspiration, and the importance of staying productive even when projects don't find immediate success. For listeners, the episode serves as both a career retrospective and a masterclass in creative persistence.
The B-Side is available on iTunes, Spotify, and Stitcher, and listeners can follow the show on Twitter and Facebook. The podcast also offers additional content, including highlights of past episodes and a Patreon page where supporters can access exclusive material and a private Slack channel.
As Pellington continues to release new work, his conversation on The B-Side provides a timely look at the mind of a filmmaker who has consistently defied easy categorization. Whether he's directing a big-budget thriller or an experimental dance piece, his commitment to the craft remains evident.
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