Director Bryan Fuller, renowned for his impressive work in genre television shows like Hannibal and Pushing Daisies, takes a bold step into the film world with his feature debut, Dust Bunny. This coming-of-age fantasy film promises a delightful twist that will captivate audiences.
Bringing together the brilliance of Fuller and the cinematic talent of Mads Mikkelsen, who reprises his role as a hitman hired by a young girl named Aurora (Sophie Sloan), this film addresses the threat of a mysterious Dust Bunny haunting her apartment.
In an enlightening conversation with io9, Fuller shared insights into how Dust Bunny transitioned from an idea proposed for an episode of Spielberg’s Amazing Stories series to a feature film, detailing his collaborative experience with genre legend Sigourney Weaver. He also reflected on various projects that did not reach fruition, along with excited hints about an upcoming project and a potential Silence of the Lambs limited series.
Curious about the whimsical world of Dust Bunny? Read on!
How does Bryan Fuller blend genres in Dust Bunny?
Fuller describes his vision as a homage to 80s Amblin films, capturing the essence of childhood adventure entwined with the thrill of monster-hunting. Movies like ET, Poltergeist, and Gremlins significantly influenced the narrative and aesthetic choices in Dust Bunny. His connection to these stories reflects the challenges of growing up, much like the heroes in The Goonies or Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, who often carry the weight of their journeys.
What makes Sophie Sloan the right cast for Aurora?
Working alongside Sophie was a joyful experience for Fuller, as they both shared a debut in filmmaking. Her expressive features and childlike innocence make her the perfect fit for Aurora, capturing the heart of the story’s conflict. Fuller’s collaborative approach allowed them to explore Aurora’s character deeply, ensuring authenticity in her portrayal.
Are practical effects a focus in Dust Bunny?
Fuller emphasizes using a combination of practical effects and CGI to create the titular Dust Bunny. The physical presence of an intricately designed puppet, inspired by comic artist Jon Wayshak’s designs, enhances interactions with the child actors, making their performances more genuine.
Evaluating the homage to classic films?
The film includes intentional references to iconic cinema such as Jaws, showcasing a thoughtful blend of nostalgia with originality. Fuller draws from the visual storytelling experiences of directors like Barry Sonnenfeld and David Fincher, enriching his directorial debut with dynamic visual elements.
Is there a future for Bryan Fulle’s vision of Silence of the Lambs?
Fuller remains passionate about adapting Silence of the Lambs as a limited series. While elevating Clarice and Hannibal, he acknowledges the challenge of exceeding the original’s legacy. Although exciting discussions are ongoing, there are no concrete plans at this time.
What’s currently inspiring Bryan Fuller?
Fuller finds inspiration in the flexibility of filmmaking compared to television’s episodic pressure. He’s working on an undisclosed project with a legendary storyteller that aims to shatter genre expectations. Additionally, a new script similar in theme to Dust Bunny is in the works, exploring complex adult relationships.
Movies like Dust Bunny pave the way for imaginative storytelling that resonates across generations. The film is set to hit theaters on December 12, promising to whisk audiences into a world of adventure and spookiness.
For those eager to delve deeper into the universe of genre storytelling, consider exploring more insights at Moyens I/O. Discover the fascinating landscape of upcoming titles in film and television.