Episode 1187 - Patty Jenkins

Wonder Woman

Patty Jenkins shares her long journey to directing "Wonder Woman," a project she pursued since 2004. Despite initial skepticism from Warner Brothers about the viability of a female superhero film, she persisted and eventually got the opportunity to direct it her way 1. Jenkins emphasizes her desire to create films about women doing diverse things, not just about being women, which led her to the superhero genre 2. She found it natural to infuse Wonder Woman with depth and femininity, challenging the typical portrayal of female heroes 3.

I've known so many super badass women who were super feminine, and so. And I love Wonder Woman, by the way.

--- Patty Jenkins

Her vision was to create a character that was both powerful and relatable, breaking away from traditional narratives.

   

Creative Control

Balancing studio demands with personal vision was a significant challenge for Patty Jenkins during the making of "Wonder Woman." She recounts how the studio insisted on adding a climactic battle scene, which she felt was unnecessary and rushed 4. Despite these pressures, Jenkins was committed to staying true to the essence of Wonder Woman, ensuring the film was entertaining and faithful to its fan base 5. She also faced the challenge of portraying a powerful yet feminine hero, which was often met with resistance due to prevailing gender norms 6.

I got caught in the...forefront of trying to make a very feminine person powerful, and it just made everybody so uncomfortable.

--- Patty Jenkins

Her dedication to her vision was crucial in redefining the superhero genre.

   

Gender Dynamics

Patty Jenkins discusses the gender dynamics in the film industry, highlighting the skepticism she faced as a female director. She felt that studios often wanted her as a token female director, without valuing her creative input 7. Jenkins also reflects on the evolution of the theatrical experience, noting her initial reluctance to release films outside of theaters but acknowledging the necessity during challenging times 8. Her commitment to authentic storytelling and representation has been a driving force in her career.

There was such mistrust of a different way of doing things and a different point of view.

--- Patty Jenkins

Jenkins continues to push boundaries, advocating for diverse narratives and inclusive representation.