Christine Vachon navigates new era of indie film with 'Pretty Babies' and lingering 'De Noche' drama

Key points

• Vachon, founder of Killer Films, has produced over 35 years of idiosyncratic US cinema, ranging from controversial titles like 'Poison' and 'Kids' to commercial successes like 'Materialists', which grossed $108m.
• Her latest production, 'Pretty Babies', directed by newcomer Tyler-Marie Evans, follows two teenage actors in Los Angeles and premiered at the Edinburgh International Film Festival.
• Vachon explains that Killer Films supports first-time directors by providing financial assurance to backers, leveraging her reputation to de-risk projects with provocative subject matter.
• The production of Todd Haynes' 'De Noche' faced a crisis when Joaquin Phoenix withdrew five days before filming in August 2024, causing estimated losses exceeding seven figures; the project was later revived with Pascal and Danny Ramirez.
• Vachon addresses the gendered double standards in Hollywood, noting that female producers are often criticized for having a temper, a trait that was necessary for survival in the 1990s industry.

Background

Vachon's career spans from the early 1990s, when her films like 'Poison' sparked congressional controversy over NEA funding, to the 2020s, where her company achieved mainstream respectability with 'Past Lives' receiving a Best Picture Oscar nomination. This shift reflects the broader evolution of independent cinema from niche provocateur to industry staple.

Why it matters

Vachon's trajectory illustrates the changing landscape of US independent film, moving from scandal-driven visibility to critical and commercial success. Her continued focus on provocative, personal narratives highlights the enduring role of producers in nurturing emerging talent and challenging industry norms, even as the definition of 'controversial' shifts with social media.

What to watch

Vachon is preparing for the release of 'De Noche' and the distribution of 'Pretty Babies'. She remains open to future collaborations, though the relationship with Joaquin Phoenix remains unresolved, with Vachon uncertain if he would wish to work with her again.