Artist Decoded by Yoshino: The Art of Self Defense with Riley Stearns

About Riley: Riley Stearns (Director + Writer) grew up in Pflugerville, Texas.

His short, The Cub, screened at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. His feature debut, Faults, starring Leland Orser, and Mary Elizabeth Winstead, premiered at SXSW in 2014 and was released theatrically.

The Art of Self-Defense (2019) played at numerous international film festivals including the opening night slot of Munich Film Festival and was released domestically to critical acclaim. The Art of Self-Defense is Stearns’ second feature.

He is a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under, Renzo Gracie black belt, Shawn Williams.

Topics Discussed In This Episode:

Stearns' seven-year journey training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and studying at various schools including Renzo Gracie's academy in LA
A discussion on Stearns' recent film “The Art of Self Defense”
The concept of toxic masculinity, and its effects on society's expectation of people
His use of dark comedy, and absurdity in breaking down the stereotypes of men and developing an overall message on the importance of being yourself
Using his art as a means to express his emotions and deal with personal traumas, including a recent divorce
On Stearns' writing process, incubation period, and organic approach in editing after the script is finished
Finding a recent passion playing the mandolin
His collaborations in film, and maintaining healthy relationships with those he works with
Having wins and balancing what people like versus having a healthy ego as an artist, specifically concerning his reception of his 2013 short film “The Cub” which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival
Reflection on Stearns' 2014 film, Faults
The Art of Self Defense is available to stream on Hulu