Denis Villeneuve Follows Christopher Nolan’s Lead by Banning Cellphones on Film Sets

Director Denis Villeneuve, known for his work on Dune and Blade Runner 2049, shares a unique approach to film sets that aligns with Christopher Nolan’s method: banning cellphones.

In a recent interview with the LA Times, Villeneuve expressed concerns about the addictive nature of smartphones, which he believes distract from real-world connections and creativity.

He remarked, “We behave like AI circuits… We’re disconnecting from each other, and society is crumbling in some ways.”

Drawing parallels between filmmaking and other art forms, Villeneuve emphasized the importance of being fully present. “Cinema is an act of presence,” he stated.

“Everybody has to focus and be entirely in the present, listening to each other, being in relationship with each other.”

This policy, which has been in place since day one on his sets, ensures that the crew stays engaged in the creative process without the distraction of social media or personal devices.

While it might seem harsh to ban cellphones during downtime between takes, Villeneuve argues that it fosters a deeper connection to the work and the team.

The results speak for themselves, as both Villeneuve and Nolan have received critical acclaim and multiple Oscar nominations for their work.

This strategy highlights the importance of maintaining focus and presence in creative environments, ensuring that the team remains engaged with the artistic process.