Michael Showalter on Exploring Hitchcockian Influence in “Verity”
Image credit: Amazon MGM Studios
In our new interview, director Michael Showalter sat down to discuss the film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s novel Verity with moderator Carla Sosenko. Right from the start, he expressed immense excitement about taking on the project, especially since he was already a fan of Hoover’s work. He revealed that his introduction to Hoover’s writing came through the massive success of It Ends With Us, which piqued his interest in her storytelling style. “I wanted to understand and get to know her work better,” he shared, stating his appreciation for her unfiltered and passionate writing.
Image credit: Amazon MGM Studios
Showalter highlighted the unique blend of themes present in Verity , particularly how it delves into the complex relationship between readers and authors. He found it intriguing to explore the fervent obsession readers can develop for stories and their creators. “It taps into that addictive quality of experiencing a book you love,” he noted, emphasizing that this dynamic was crucial in translating the story to a visual medium. He skillfully aimed to capture the psychological tension and suspense characteristic of Hitchcock films, blending that inspiration with contemporary storytelling to create a film experience that both resonates emotionally and thrills viewers.
Throughout the discussion, Showalter was keen to address the challenges of adapting such a beloved book, particularly the responsibility he felt to honor its core while introducing cinematic elements. "We were aware of the passionate fan base and the expectations that come with it," he said. He mentioned the collaboration with Hoover and her producing partner Lauren Levine, noting that their insights helped guide the adaptation process, ensuring it remained faithful to the source material while still making room for creative interpretations.
The conversation also touched on a few significant moments in the film, including the pivotal scenes that showcase the characters' intertwining fates. He noted that the ending of Verity is intentionally ambiguous, allowing viewers to engage in discussions about its meaning and the characters' motives. “I don’t have a definitive answer about what the truth is; I just put it out there for people to debate," he stated, illustrating his desire to provoke thought and conversation among audiences.
Watch the full conversation below.
