My last interview from Denver Film Festival 42 is an exciting one. I’ve got Trey Edward Shults, Director of Waves, a movie I’ve scarcely stopped thinking about since I saw it about two weeks ago. Here’s what I wrote after watching it: “This film is visceral and thrilling and harrowing, but also quiet and contemplative and beautiful.”

So on the last day of the fest, I sat down with him for about a half hour and I asked him about some technical stuff from the film (lighting and sound design, of course, because this movie is an absolute force in every respect), a bit about his career coming up through Terrence Malick, and some other stuff you might expect. But more importantly, I think this interview captures what a good dude Trey is. His insights about collaboration, how he handles the abundant (and rightful) praise this film has earned, and his generous reactions to my own insights to the film reveal not only a talented artist, but a just plain cool guy.

You’ll enjoy this one, and then you should see Waves. Download it on iTunes, stream it on Stitcher, or listen at the Jon of All Trades homepage.

Here’s the description from the press website: “Set against the vibrant landscape of South Florida, and featuring an astonishing ensemble of award-winning actors and breakouts alike, Waves traces the epic emotional journey of a suburban African-American family— led by a well-intentioned but domineering father—as they navigate love, forgiveness and coming together in the aftermath of a loss. From acclaimed director Trey Edward Shults, Waves is a heartrending story about the universal capacity for compassion and growth even in the darkest of times.”

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