John-Michael Powell sculpts violence in 'Violent Ends'

Writer-director John-Michael Powell joins us to discuss 'Violent Ends,' his southern crime thriller hitting theaters on Halloween. Powell opens up about the leap from his micro-budget debut 'The Send-Off' to this significantly larger production, sharing insights into navigating that scale shift.

Our conversation explores John-Michael's extensive editing background and how it shaped his approach to directing. He discusses how his editorial experience allows him to move efficiently on set and make confident decisions about coverage. Powell also reveals the unique dynamic of now working with an editor after years behind the cutting room himself, and how that relationship informs his vision behind the camera.

We delve into the film's intentional approach to violence and gore within action sequences, with him emphasizing their deliberate portrayal of violence as a rumination on its destructive nature.

(Photo: Courtesy of Kai Caddy)