Paul Bettany's First Film, About A Homeless New York Couple

The Leonard Lopate Show | Nov 11, 2015

Actor Paul Bettany discusses "Shelter," the first film he wrote and directed. The movie centers around the lives of Hannah and Tahir who come from two different worlds, but are now both homeless on the streets of New York. 

Bettany told Leonard that his inspiration for the film came when he realized that a homeless couple he passed by everyday began to feel invisible to him. He also talked about moments of discomfort while directing the film's star, his wife, Jennifer Connelly, as she pushed needles into her arm and performed what Bettany called "sexually humiliating scenes."

"Shelter" opens on November 13th at the AMC Empire 25 located at 234 West 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036.

Check out Paul Bettany's guest picks!

What have you read or seen lately (book, play, film, etc...) that moved or surprised you?

Leviathan – it’s like being cuddled by a boa constrictor.

What are you listening to right now?

“Everyday Robots” by Damon Albarn

What’s the last great book you read?

“The Mint” by T.E. Lawrence

What’s one thing you’re a fan of that people might not expect?

Zombie movies

What’s your favorite comfort food?

Sausages & mash

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