The Next Best Picture Podcast Interviews With "Splitsville" Stars Dakota Johnson, Adria Arjona & Filmmakers
Sep 3, 2025
Dakota Johnson, a talented actress and producer, and Adria Arjona, an up-and-coming star, join writer-director Michael Angelo Covino to discuss "Splitsville." They delve into the creative process behind the film, including how real-life anecdotes inspired the plot. Covino shares insights on staging complex comedic fight scenes and the decision to use long takes for authentic storytelling. The trio reflects on the warm audience reception at Cannes, highlighting the film's blend of humor and emotional realism.
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Producer-Actor Dug Into Script Early
- Dakota Johnson recounts months of script work and character conversations with the male leads because her company produced the film.
- She contrasts that prep with having little rehearsal time with Adria Arjona before filming.
Limited Rehearsal Fueled On-Set Discovery
- Covino describes improvisation and quick collaboration when rehearsal time is limited.
- That approach allowed discovery on set and kept the film feeling spontaneous.
Quiet Exterior, Violent Interior
- Dakota Johnson interprets Julie as outwardly calm while internally 'raging' and making flippant choices with deeper meaning.
- That internal micro-vibration idea explains Julie's inconsistent arc and unresolved ending.