Larry started out acting in high school, then stopped to follow his childhood dream of flying. 13 years later after accomplishing his goal to become a commercial airline pilot, he went back to acting as a passionate hobby, picking up where he left off. Since then, he has appeared in several independent films and commercials, as well as stage work in various showcases. Larry has also written Screenplays including his latest where its placed in the top 10% of various international screenwriting competitions. His new short film, ANGEL EYES, which he also wrote, gives him a chance at first time producer.What is the current project you are working on?
I've put on my "Producer" hat for the first time. I finished writing an action/drama short film about child trafficking currently entitled "Angel Eyes". Now I'm in the early stages of pre-production. Check out the film's website! AngelEyesFilm.com
How do you handle rejection?
Well, being human I don't handle it any better than the next person, it's tough, no doubt about it. But what you do next in my opinion makes all the difference in the world. I accept rejection as a necessity. Without it, it's impossible to succeed.
Did you always want to be a filmmaker?
No. I started my acting in school plays and quickly developed a liking towards it. Acting has always been a passionate hobby of mine. The writing and now producing I suppose just naturally evolved from it. I enjoy the entire filmmaking process. It's quite a rush for me.
What inspired you to become a filmmaker?
Not being in NY or LA making the rounds, there's less available opportunities where I live. So, I decided to stop waiting for work to come to me and try to create it on my own. It also gives a great sense of accomplishment in making something from nothing. Something that not only may satisfy you, but others might like as well.
What is the best thing about being one?
I suppose it's the feeling that any artist gets, whether it be a filmmaker or a musician or painter, etc.. seeing something that you've created or imagined come to life.
What is the worst thing about being one?
Well, at my early stage right now it's finding the resources and time in order to make it all happen. Once you've established yourself, then you can attract more people who'll believe in you and what you want to accomplish.
What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?
I'd say a couple dozen as an actor in films, commercials and stage. I've written two screenplays, and this will be the first time as a producer.
Who is your favorite filmmaker?
Oh wow, that's hard to pick just one. I think we're all influenced a little bit by many different people. Some of my favorites are Spielberg, Scorsese, Christopher Nolan and Tony Scott to name a few.
How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?
This producing gig is definitely changing my life that's for sure. It's a lot more labor intensive but in the end I know it'll be worth it. But really, I'm still just a plain working guy who likes to do films on the side.
What do you like to do besides filmmaking?
Getting to hanging out with my beautiful family is my greatest past time. I also play a little baseball. I'm in an adult league with a bunch of other guys who's mind won't listen to their bodies telling them, "Stop, you're too old for this!"
Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker?
As an airline pilot, I'm blessed to be one of the few who actually loves doing their day job.
What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?
Ah man, too many to list! But here goes...
The Shawshank Redemption
Jaws
The Right Stuff
Rocky
12 Angry Men
Swordfish (people think I'm nuts about that one but hey, that movie was kick ass!)
Point Break
Papillon
Crimson Tide
Foreign films? Uhhhh? Sorry, don't really know any. I remember watching Das Boot when I was a kid. Couldn't keep up with the subtitles but I thought it was pretty cool.
I don't watch TV unless there's a White Sox game on.
How would you describe your film education?
I'm a very visual person. So it basically started way back on my first film set as an actor. I don't consider myself an accomplished filmmaker by any means of the word . But so far in my short career I've seen things that work and many things that don't. You really have to surround yourself with people who know a heck of a lot more than you do, and listen. It takes more than one person to make a film, a good film.
How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?
Unfortunately, a lot of political red tape has caused almost a total shut down of the film industry in Arizona over the past twenty years. Many good projects from big studios have passed over Arizona and moved on to New Mexico and Texas because of better tax incentives. It's a shame because there's so many talented people in this state both in front and behind the camera. But you can't stop that creative spirit. Many independent filmmakers now are coming out with fantastic projects from around the state.
How has social media changed the independent film industry?
I think it's made it almost as mainstream as the big studio films. The last answer is a perfect example. There now is different outlet for people to showcase their talents. Technology and social media has made it a game changer. LA will keep pumping out great work like it always has. But as long as people keep supporting independent films, undiscovered talent can now show up from any walk of life, anywhere!
What's your opinion on crowdfunding?
I think it's a wonderful tool. You may loose a friend or two if you keep bugging them to support you, but it definitely gives you the ability to reach out to more people then ever before.
How does independent film differ from the mainstream?
I'd say when you boil it all down it has to be about the control factor. That's why it's called independent film. You give that up, your now part of the machine. You may still have a say but a lot of times you'll be fighting to keep certain aspects of your work. Independent work, although sometimes more difficult and more costly, you get to keep your ideas and creativity throughout the process.
If you could go back in time and see any classic film being made. Which film would it be and why?
I'd say the original Star Wars in 1976 out in the Tunisian Desert when George thought he had really screwed the pooch. I could pat him on the back and say, "Don't worry man, its gonna be alright."
What's your favorite movie quote and why?
I think all my favorite quotes come from Clint Eastwood. I don't know why, its just the way he delivers his lines. Very subtle, but oh so powerful..
"Where you gonna die alone?"
Blondie to Tuco
-The Good, The Bad and The Ugly
What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?
I'm not a fan of sequels. There too risky because very few are actually better or as good as the first. It almost discredits the first film. I mean really, who ever watches Grease 2? And about remakes, well... Just as in life, there are some things you just don't tamper with. I didn't even like the Karate Kid remake. There's no way to ever improve a Gone with the Wind or a Casablanca. So why even try?
What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?
There ok. Some do justice to the book, a lot of them don't. I use to really get upset about how movies made from books would totally butcher the book. This was before I learned about film marketing and how a 2 hour movie gets made from a 500 page novel. They just can't fit it all in. You just have to forget all that and just let yourself enjoy the film. But never forget, the book is always better!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Thanks for having me John. And to everyone who would like to help promote child trafficking awareness. Please back our project so we can get this baby made!
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1901701059/angel-eyes?ref=live
or
AngelEyesFilm.com
Thanks for doing the interview Larry. I'll be sure to spread the word about "Angel Eyes".
No comments:
Post a Comment