The directors two Oscars are both in the Adapted Screenplay category.
If AI could write a script for me, I would be so happy, he joked.
I trained as a director, not a writer.
Alexander PayneDaniel Leal/AFP via Getty Images
To be a filmmaker, you write, direct, and edit.
But I much prefer directing to writing.
Writing is hard, and Im slow at it.
Payne added that he consideredThe Holdoversas his first experience directing a writer as he commissioned the screenplay.
I found the writer.
I gave him the premise, and we came up with the story together.
He showed me many drafts.
The character is named Paul for a reason.
I told the writer from the beginning that were writing for Paul Giamatti, Payne said.
I called Paul, and I said, Were writing something for you.
Payne described Giamatti as the greatest actor.
Theres nothing that he cant do.
If the part is generally right for him, give it to Paul Giamatti, he said.
Its like giving a part to Meryl Streep or Laurence Olivier.
Youre just curious what this great actor is going to do with the part.
Were conceiving a Western right now, Payne said of himself and Hemingson.
Ive always wanted to make a real Western.
Theres another project that I have.
The screenplay isnt quite ready, but it takes place in Paris and is in the French language.
He added: I still think just about movies and not TV series.
The Thessaloniki International Film Festival runs until November 12.
