While everyone is discussing the merits of Hollywood blockbusters such as Top Gun: Maverick and Thor: Love and Thunder, there’s a smaller movie released this weekend that is just as deserving of your attention: Brian & Charles. This tender comedy tells the story of a lonely man who builds a robot – a simple premise, executed in a truly accomplished manner by director Jim Archer. To mark the film’s release we had the pleasure of speaking to the director, as well as the two leading stars David Earl (Brian) and Chris Hayward (Charles – the robot). We discuss the films fantastical elements, the influence of Ricky Gervais and The Office on this mockumentary format, and combining comedy and pathos to make for a film that has been so well-received in its showings at Sundance. Watch both interviews in their entirety below.
David Earl & Chris Hayward
Jim Archer
Synopsis
After a particularly harsh winter Brian goes into a deep depression; completely isolated and with no one to talk to, Brian does what any sane person would do when faced with such a melancholic situation. He builds a robot.
Brian & Charles is released in cinemas on July 8th
