Mike Leigh and Marianne Jean-Baptiste discuss unique filmmaking process for Hard Truths

Mike Leigh's filmmaking process involves extensive rehearsals and collaboration with actors, rather than improvisation during filming. His latest film, "Hard Truths," was developed over 14 weeks of rehearsals, emphasizing character depth and real-life inspiration. Leigh and actress Marianne Jean-Baptiste, who previously worked together on "Secrets & Lies," focus on creating authentic characters through detailed preparation. They draw from real people to build complex roles, ensuring a thorough understanding of their characters' backgrounds. Unlike traditional filmmaking, Leigh's method results in precise dialogue crafted during rehearsals. He avoids a physical script, instead documenting scenes to guide filming. This approach allows for a natural, immersive performance without the need for method acting.