Filmmaker Alex Garland and producer Andrew Macdonald shared insights into their acclaimed sci-fi thriller “Ex Machina” at a recent event. The duo, who have worked together for years, revealed details about casting decisions and a memorable scene from the 2015 movie.
Macdonald said sales companies originally pushed for a bigger star like Jake Gyllenhaal in a leading role. “They thought it would help sell the international rights better,” Macdonald explained. However, negotiations stalled due to the actor’s representatives. Ultimately, Garland and Macdonald chose Alicia Vikander and Oscar Isaac, who were rising talents at the time. This allowed the low-budget film to get financing through Universal International.
During the event, Garland called “Ex Machina” his favorite directorial effort so far. He praised the positive on-set atmosphere and hard work of the “young and committed” cast. Garland also shed light on the film’s memorable dancing scene featuring Isaac and Sonoya Mizuno. He said it was intentionally added to disrupt the film’s tone, influenced by his previous experience making “Never Let Me Go.”
Looking ahead, the duo confirmed they are working on a sequel to their earlier thriller “28 Days Later.” Titled “28 Years Later,” Garland wrote the screenplay and Danny Boyle is directing the first film in a new trilogy. Production recently wrapped in northern England. Macdonald teased “We hope there will be two more after this.”
The Q&A gave attendees a glimpse into the thought put into “Ex Machina” and the prospects of future projects from Garland and Macdonald’s successful partnership.
