Giovanni Ribisi Makes Directorial Debut with ‘Strange Darling’

Giovanni Ribisi, known for his extensive acting career, has ventured into directing and cinematography with his latest project, ‘Strange Darling.’ This critically acclaimed thriller unfolds through a non-linear narrative involving a one-night stand gone awry, featuring the characters played by Kyle Gallner and Willa Fitzgerald.

Ribisi has invested years honing his skills in the camera and lighting departments, influenced by renowned cinematographers such as Dante Spinotti and Andrew Lesnie. Over the past 15 years, he has built a studio named Stellascope that specializes in making filmmaking accessible and affordable, with a strong focus on celluloid film.

Collaboration with JT Mollner sparked the transformation of a script initially titled ‘One Night with You’ into ‘Strange Darling.’ The film was shot entirely on 35 mm film at a fraction of traditional production costs, debunking the common belief that shooting on film is excessively expensive.

“There are misconceptions about shooting film,” Ribisi explained. “Many believe it is more costly, but when considering the overall expenses, it is often not true.” His advocacy for shooting on film stems from his belief in the art of cinematography and the creative focus it necessitates.

‘Strange Darling’ features a unique structure divided into six chapters, beginning with an intense car chase. Ribisi noted that while executing intricate scenes can be challenging, the combined efforts of the crew made the process smoother and more rewarding.

In supporting the film’s execution, Ribisi and Mollner collaborated closely on shot plans, adjusting as needed due to production constraints. Despite the hurdles faced, Ribisi’s passion for directing has only intensified, as he looks forward to future projects where he can apply the lessons learned from this experience.