I Love Josh Brolin’s Amazing Literal WTF Moment In Weapons, And How It Came Out Of Multiple Takes Is A Cool Look Into Movie Making

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In films, humor and horror play a significant role. They are polar opposites emotionally, yet their combination makes them powerful tools. A humorous scene can make an audience less guarded before a frightening event, and it can also alleviate tension following a long stretch of fear. For instance, Zach Cregger, the writer/director of the new movie ‘Weapons‘, skillfully employs this balance, as evidenced by Josh Brolin’s genuine “What the fuck?” reaction after witnessing a shocking nightmare.

This past summer, when I first watched “Weapons” in the theater, a spontaneous burst of laughter echoed around me as Brolin delivered his exasperated and bewildered exclamation, now famously praised by David Fincher as the “greatest line in R-rated history.” During the film’s Los Angeles press day, I couldn’t help but ask the actor about it when we spoke. Of course, a brilliant delivery isn’t the only ingredient that makes the scene effective; the editor has to meticulously sync it with the end of the movie’s dream sequence. Brolin shared his perspective on this, revealing that it actually required several takes and minor adjustments to get it just right.

On several occasions, we carried out the task… I’m satisfied with his selection, whatever it was. Each time we did it, we shared laughter… You’ve tried numerous options and again, he would fine-tune things, suggesting sometimes that this could be the one… However, I have enough experience to understand that the ‘perfect’ choice isn’t always the perfect choice. Something that feels most comfortable might not be suitable tonally for him during post-production. So we attempted, let’s say, around six attempts. Five attempts. Six attempts. His final selection is the one I prefer. It has just the right amount of deviation…

More Weapons!

“As a father, I Had Reservations About Watching ‘Weapons’. Here’s Why It Still Fascinated Me”: The Director of the Movie Acknowledges Intentional Plot Oversights, But Offers an Explanation for Them

*This paraphrase maintains the original meaning but uses more casual and conversational language to make it more relatable and easier to read.*

In the case of filmmakers who often capture numerous takes, such as David Fincher, there’s a common belief that their actions stem from uncertainty about their vision. However, I believe this story sheds light on why this interpretation might be too simplistic. A take that appears suitable during filming may not necessarily translate into the ideal fit when the footage is edited and pieced together in post-production.

Additionally, just like I’m optimistic that the sleeping scene of Josh Brolin on set amid a take will appear in the Weapons home video edition, I also eagerly anticipate a swift montage featuring all five/six instances of the actor exclaiming, “What the fuck?!” being compiled.

The film titled “Weapons,” featuring Julia Garner, Alden Ehrenreich, Austin Abrams, Benedict Wong, Cary Christopher, and Amy Madigan, is set to begin its fourth week at the box office this upcoming Friday. Despite being a summer release in August, it has become one of the season’s most thrilling successes. This captivating movie offers an unforgettable theater experience, and if you haven’t experienced Josh Brolin’s memorable “What the fuck?!” alongside a crowd, it’s highly recommended that you add it to your must-see list soon.

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2025-08-28 04:08