David Mamet Discusses ‘Henry Johnson’ and New Play Inspired by J.K. Rowling

Introducing David Mamet’s New Film: Henry Johnson

The **2025 summer season** of the Crew Call podcast kicks off with a riveting conversation featuring **David Mamet**, a Pulitzer-winning playwright and a two-time Oscar nominee. Mamet recently ventured into the film realm with his new movie, Henry Johnson, marking his **directing return after 12 years**. This film is based on a 2023 play that made its debut in **Venice, California**.

Plot Overview of Henry Johnson

Henry Johnson revolves around the titular character, portrayed by **Evan Jonigkeit**, who is Mamet’s son-in-law. In a gripping narrative, Henry finds himself in a precarious situation after assisting a friend. His involvement inadvertently turns him into **collateral damage** within a dark web of **sex crime affairs**, ultimately leading him to **jail**. Throughout the storyline, he encounters various authority figures, including his eventual cellmate **Gene** played by **Shia LaBeouf**. This journey pushes Henry down a path filled with **manipulation** and **ethical dilemmas**.

A Candid Conversation with David Mamet

During our discussion, Mamet shares insights into the origins of Henry Johnson. One notable point is his take on **LaBeouf’s** performance, which he describes as **sublime**. Interestingly, he does not subscribe to the concept of **method acting**, adding an intriguing perspective on performance styles in filmmaking.

The conversation also delves into the state of the **motion picture industry**, where Mamet expresses concerns about **streaming** services significantly impacting traditional filmmaking. “Anyone can make a movie and distribute it and take their chances,” Mamet argues. He emphasizes the **challenges** faced by filmmakers in today’s landscape, stating that the likelihood of people seeing a movie through self-distribution is comparable to spending a decade trying to persuade Hollywood insiders to view one’s work.

Diving into Hollywood Dynamics

Mamet’s hiatus from writing mainstream studio films prompts an interesting dialogue. His past works, including **The Untouchables**, **Hannibal**, **The Verdict**, and **Ronin**, set a precedent for high-caliber filmmaking. However, when studios approach him, they encounter a unique set of requirements. “If you want to hire me, either give me a lot of money and accept the risk of me messing it up, or provide me with sufficient funds to make the film and then **let me be**,” he remarks. This combination of independence and financial backing reflects Mamet’s commitment to preserving the **integrity** of his work.

Female Stage Adaptation of Glengarry Glen Ross

We also explore the much-discussed **female stage version** of Glengarry Glen Ross. Mamet recalls a reading where **Rebecca Pidgeon** played **Ricky Roma** and **Felicity Huffman** took on the role of **Shelley Levene**. Additionally, he shares insights about his play **Bitter Wheat**, inspired by the infamous **Harvey Weinstein**, and explains why it never reached **Broadway**. Mamet describes Broadway as “very problematic,” particularly during what he terms the **height of woke insanity**. He notes the societal resistance to a comedic narrative involving a **libertine** character, suggesting that humor often intersects uncomfortably with prevailing cultural norms.

What’s Next for David Mamet?

Looking ahead, Mamet is actively developing new projects. “I’m writing a play for Rebecca about two women who need to kill **J.K. Rowling**,” he reveals. In addition, he is penning a screenplay focusing on a pair of **old confidence men** who find themselves in a predicament. “They have to resort to unusual measures to **con** a mark and take them to the cleaners,” he adds, hinting at the **witty** and **dark** themes that characterize much of his work.