On My Radar: Sam Taylor-Johnson

What website(s) do you use most regularly? 

The BBC, IMDB Pro, Vice, The Criterion Collection and La Garconne.

What’s the most recent piece of tech that you’ve bought? 

Leica M10 because I love cameras especially Leicas. I tend to have one on me at all times. 

What product could you not live without? 

I could live without everything in Big Sur one day.

What’s the best film you’ve seen over the last year?

I loved Cold War, Paweł Pawlikowski is an incredible director. I know it’s not a film but When They See Us, by Ava DuVernay, was a beautifully directed series that broke my heart.

What film do you think everyone should have seen? 

Moonlight would be my choice today, but it changes all the time. I chose this one as the filmmaking is exceptional. It also shows that Barry Jenkins is a masterful storyteller, it was shot with such little money and so much power.

What’s your preferred social media platform? 

It was Instagram but it started to steal my soul time so I had to backoff… for now.

What’s your favourite TV show? 

I’m into Succession, it’s so damn good. I love Jeremy Strong and Brian Cox. In fact, everyone. Matthew McFayden and Sarah Snook... it’s like an acting masterclass in every episode.

What’s your favourite podcast?

The Daily NY Times and Under The Skin.

What’s the most significant change you’ve witnessed in the industry since you started working in it? 

Film to digital and then back to film!

If there was one thing you could change about the advertising industry, what would it be? 

It would be to encourage more creativity, to encourage innovative ideas and to be less nervous about hiring a woman.

Who or what has most influenced your career? 

Anthony Minghella [above]. He was one of the most special people I have ever met. Everything he taught me was from the heart, his spirit was strong and I still feel his guiding hand on my shoulder when I make movies.

Tell us one thing about yourself that most people won’t know. 

I’ve never eaten a burger.