Béla Tarr's pursuit of cinematic perfection left an indelible mark on László Nemes, who describes their mentor-mentee relationship as "ultimately, and most heartily, our conversation." The Hungarian mastermind, known for his unyielding dedication to artistic integrity, had a profound influence on Nemes' approach to filmmaking.
Tarr's relentless quest for perfection began with the production of 'The Man from London,' a 1930s-set film shot in black and white with an all-Hungarian cast. The project was deemed ambitious, but Tarr's tireless pursuit of quality resulted in a work that showcased his unique vision. Nemes recounts how he learned to navigate the fine line between compromise and artistic integrity, often walking a thin rope between sacrifice and steadfastness.
A pivotal moment came when Nemes discovered the transcripts of the Sonderkommandos from Auschwitz, which later inspired his first feature film, 'Son of Saul.' This experience left an indelible mark on Nemes' work, as he continues to honor Tarr's legacy by pushing cinematic boundaries. The Hungarian director's influence extends beyond filmmaking, with Nemes reflecting on the power of art to address societal issues and bring attention to the forgotten.
Béla Tarr's collaboration with cinematographer Robby Müller on 'Prologue,' a short film about Hungary entering the EU, showcased his ability to capture human resilience in the face of adversity. The film's themes of homelessness and the struggle for resources resonate deeply with Nemes' own experiences and artistic vision.
Through their conversations and collaborations, Tarr's impact on Nemes is clear: a drive to honor artistic integrity, a relentless pursuit of quality, and a deep understanding of the human condition. As Nemes so eloquently states, "Béla was always questioning the conventions of cinema, the codes and academic attitudes of those making films." This mantra continues to guide his work, ensuring that Tarr's legacy endures in the world of film.
Tarr's relentless quest for perfection began with the production of 'The Man from London,' a 1930s-set film shot in black and white with an all-Hungarian cast. The project was deemed ambitious, but Tarr's tireless pursuit of quality resulted in a work that showcased his unique vision. Nemes recounts how he learned to navigate the fine line between compromise and artistic integrity, often walking a thin rope between sacrifice and steadfastness.
A pivotal moment came when Nemes discovered the transcripts of the Sonderkommandos from Auschwitz, which later inspired his first feature film, 'Son of Saul.' This experience left an indelible mark on Nemes' work, as he continues to honor Tarr's legacy by pushing cinematic boundaries. The Hungarian director's influence extends beyond filmmaking, with Nemes reflecting on the power of art to address societal issues and bring attention to the forgotten.
Béla Tarr's collaboration with cinematographer Robby Müller on 'Prologue,' a short film about Hungary entering the EU, showcased his ability to capture human resilience in the face of adversity. The film's themes of homelessness and the struggle for resources resonate deeply with Nemes' own experiences and artistic vision.
Through their conversations and collaborations, Tarr's impact on Nemes is clear: a drive to honor artistic integrity, a relentless pursuit of quality, and a deep understanding of the human condition. As Nemes so eloquently states, "Béla was always questioning the conventions of cinema, the codes and academic attitudes of those making films." This mantra continues to guide his work, ensuring that Tarr's legacy endures in the world of film.
he should totes be a mentor or something. i feel like we can all learn from his approach to filmmaking - making art that means something & not being afraid to take risks 
just watched this interview about Béla Tarr and László Nemes 
Tarr was super strict about quality 
it's crazy to think how much of an impact he had on Nemes 
like, the guy was inspired by the Sonderkommandos' stories 
and now he's making films that talk about homelessness 
art has so much power 
I'm not sure why they had to make a whole article about Béla Tarr's influence on László Nemes... like, we get it, he was influential 
. I mean, come on, some context would've been nice. And can we please talk about how the cinematography in 'Prologue' is literally just a bunch of homeless people standing around looking sad? 
Not exactly my idea of cinematic perfection 
For me, as a huge film buff, it's mind-blowing to think about how someone so dedicated to their craft could shape another director into what László Nemes is today. 
His work is just incredible and I love that he's carrying on the legacy of artistic integrity that Tarr instilled in him. 
. I mean, who needs all that black and white nonsense? And an all-Hungarian cast? That just sounds like a bunch of old folks reciting Shakespeare in the woods 
. Nemes thinks he's too good for compromise, but honestly, sometimes you gotta bend the rules to make something work 
.
. And it makes sense why Nemes would be inspired by those Sonderkommando transcripts - the atrocities at Auschwitz are still so haunting and unaddressed today 
. His film 'Son of Saul' must've been super challenging to make, especially with all that emotional weight... but Nemes handled it masterfully 
.
. Of course, we didn't have all the fancy equipment or training, but that's not what mattered – it was about being true to ourselves and our vision. Nemes' experience with Tarr has taught him (and us) that there's no substitute for hard work, passion, and a willingness to take the road less traveled 
I think its kinda cool how László Nemes is still pushing cinematic boundaries with Béla Tarr's influence. He's really good at exploring human condition & societal issues through his work, which is something that art should do anyway! 
HE WAS LIKE A FILM GOD WHO NEVER GAVE UP ON HIS DREAMS! NEMES' STORY IS LIKE A TESTAMENT TO THE POWER OF ARTISTIC INTEGRITY AND HONESTY. I MEAN, WHO WOULDN'T WANT TO BE INSPIRED BY SOMEONE WHO STOOD BY THEIR VALUES EVEN WHEN IT WAS HARD? 
TARR'S FILMS AREN'T JUST MOVIES, THEY'RE EXPERIENCES THAT MAKE YOU FEEL THINGS DEEP IN YOUR SOUL. AND I THINK THAT'S WHAT NEMES IS TRYING TO CAPTURE WITH HIS OWN WORK - A SENSE OF HUMANITY AND EMPATHY THAT SPEAKS TO US ALL. 