Exploring the Psychedelic Universe of “Ash”: Insights from Flying Lotus
Flying Lotus, an influential figure in electronic music, has ventured into filmmaking with his new project, “Ash,” which releases in theaters on Friday through RLJE Films and Shudder. This psychedelic space odyssey stars Eiza González as an amnesiac astronaut who discovers her crew dead on a mysterious planet. The film escalates into a psychological thriller as González’s character encounters a mysterious astronaut played by Aaron Paul. Together, they spiral into a world of paranoia as they seek to understand the lethal force that has transformed their mission into a nightmare.
Capturing the Creative Spark
In a recent conversation with Variety, Flying Lotus shared how he was drawn to “Ash” after experiencing several false starts with previous projects. He realized that the script resonated deeply with him, describing it as “precious” and recognizing that it needed a director who could bring a unique perspective. “When I read ‘Ash,’ I was like, ‘No, no, this needs me,’” he remarked. His excitement stemmed from the potential for creative experimentation and the collaborative nature of the script, which allowed for ongoing discussions and adjustments with writer Jonni Remmler.
The Perfect Star for a Heavy Role
Regarding the film’s lead, Eiza González, Flying Lotus expressed immediate confidence in her ability to embody the character. He observed, “At this point in her career she was like the character: She has something to prove, and she’s out here trying to survive.” Their collaboration began with a shared interest in video games and cinematic storytelling, creating a strong foundation for their partnership.
Visual Imagery and Inspiration
The distinct visual style of “Ash” is another highlight, drawing inspiration from psychedelic cinema and films like “Suspiria.” Flying Lotus aimed to move away from conventional sci-fi aesthetics, opting for colorful and dynamic visuals. He collaborated closely with his director of photography to craft a distinct look that would stand out despite budgetary constraints. Influences from early 2000s music videos and the work of iconic directors like Jean-Pierre Jeunet also played a significant role in shaping the film’s visual language.
Crafting the Gore and Soundtrack
With a meticulous approach to the film’s gore, the director developed a comprehensive look book before filming began. He worked with a talented team of experienced artists, many of whom had backgrounds in renowned productions such as “Evil Dead Rise.” Their expertise allowed for an ambitious pursuit of visceral visual effects. Furthermore, Flying Lotus composed the original score for “Ash,” starting the music concept as soon as he joined the project. However, he quickly discovered that his initial ideas did not align with the film in post-production, prompting a complete reimagining of the soundtrack.
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
For those navigating the challenges of low-budget filmmaking, Flying Lotus emphasizes the importance of adaptability and collaboration. “Fight for all the things that you love, but at the same time listen to the people around you,” he advises, underlining that creative compromises are essential to achieving a vision within limitations.
The Future of Flying Lotus
When considering his future projects, Flying Lotus remains open-minded. While he doesn’t wish to confine himself to any specific genre, he sees value in staying within realms where he can express his creativity without being constrained by established franchises. “I think I’d much rather just focus on my ideas and the worlds I can create,” he noted.
As for his artistic journey, music will always remain a core component of his identity. “I’m always at the chair to do music,” he stated. Although he aims to create more films if the right opportunity arises, he is not rushing back into directing, acknowledging the intense process of filmmaking.
Watch the Trailer
To get a glimpse into the world of “Ash,” check out the trailer below:
