David Joseph Craig and Brian William Crano, the creative minds behind the horror-comedy “I Don’t Understand You,” have infused their personal experiences with the challenges of adoption into the film’s narrative. After facing a traumatic initial attempt to adopt, the duo found solace and clarity during the pandemic, leading to the creation of their movie, which explores the lives of prospective parents Dom (Nick Kroll) and Cole (Andrew Rannells).
Craig reflected on their past ordeal, stating that they had been victims of fraud in their first adoption attempt. While they coped with the trauma in differing ways—Craig internalizing his feelings and Crano openly discussing them—they eventually drew strength from their experiences to write the film.
The filmmakers found joy in their eventual success: after a grueling three-year journey, they were able to adopt a son, who also makes a cameo in the film. Notably, while on a romantic anniversary trip to Italy at the time they learned of their son’s impending birth, Crano humorously recounted an unfortunate mishap that inspired a pivotal scene in the film.
The film aims to address not only the complexities of adoption and parenthood but also the representation of queer characters in media. Craig and Crano expressed a desire to move beyond the typical tragic narratives often assigned to gay characters, aiming to create a space for flawed, multifaceted portrayals.
When casting for Dom and Cole, the duo recognized the need for actors who could embody a contemporary, relatable queer experience. They approached Kroll and Rannells, who clicked with the characters and shared a natural chemistry that would resonate on-screen.
Despite initial concerns from some actors about portraying gay characters in humorous but perhaps villainous roles, Craig and Crano emphasized the importance of showcasing complex gay characters, marking a departure from the conventional roles often assigned to LGBTQ+ individuals in film. This approach contributes to a broader discourse on representation in Hollywood, where the filmmakers are determined to advocate for diverse narratives that connect with a wider audience.
Through conversations with notable figures such as Joel Edgerton, who motivated them to turn their experiences into a movie, Craig and Crano navigated the complexities of getting their film made amidst industry challenges. Their deep connections with fellow actors and friends, including Amanda Seyfried and Rebecca Hall, further enriched the storytelling process.
Cinematographer Lowell Meyer, who previously worked closely with the duo, lent his artistic expertise to create a visually gripping experience. Craig and Crano designed the film not just to be a comedic romp but also a stark exploration of the sometimes grotesque realities linked to family building.
“I Don’t Understand You” opens in theaters on June 6, promising to be both entertaining and thought-provoking. With its unique blend of humor and horror, the film offers a fresh perspective on the trials and tribulations of modern parenthood and the adoption journey, emphasizing that every family’s story is worthy of being told.
As Craig and Crano look to the future, they are already developing a new project that seeks to explore family dynamics during the holiday season in a uniquely dark and comedic light. Their creative journey exemplifies how personal experiences can be effectively channeled into art that resonates with many, uplifting voices that have often been sidelined in mainstream storytelling.