When Denis Villeneuve Took Hollywood by Storm

The first time I saw Prisoners was at a friend’s apartment in college. Looking back, I can’t imagine a worse setting to experience an atmospheric crime thriller: several dudes packed like sardines on a small, stained couch, sipping whiskey out of red Solo cups. (As all good whiskey should be served.) Nevertheless, over the next two and a half hours, we all sat there in stunned silence—completely at the mercy of the French Canadian director responsible for this bleak, gorgeous film. Admittedly, none of us had any idea who the guy was, but everyone on that crappy sofa was in agreement: We will watch your career with great interest.