York Shackleton Interview

Born and raised in Southern California, York Shackleton took up snowboarding and skateboarding at age 10. By 19 he was on the professional snowboarding circuit, where he wowed legions of young fans and popularized a move called the "rodeo flip." Inspired to tap into the commercial aspect of the sport, York and a friend started the company groove snowboards. In the late 1990s, York took his tricks in front of the camera, appearing in several national commercials for Mountain Dew and Taco Bell. York got his first taste of straight acting the next year, when he turned up alongside Dominique Swain as a teenage skater in Johnathan Kahn's "Girl".

York's movie career began in earnest when he landed a lead role in Emilio Ferrari's "White Out" (at his very first audition, according to Ferrari). While the film was almost universally panned, York received high marks from critics and audiences for his turn as "a cocky king of the mountain" Kelly Powers. Ferrari was so pleased with York that he wrote a part for him in his next film, "I Know What You Did Last Winter".

After appearing in several Indies and the MTV series "Undressed", York crossed over into mainstream circles with his directorial debut. "Las Paraditas", a feature documentary exposing the violence and corruption that surrounds the prostitutes of Tijuana. In 2005, York wrote and directed the critically acclaimed cult film, "Kush" Starring William Atherton, Mike Erwin and Lyn Shea.

What is the current project you are working on?

I just finished a film in Portland Oregon called Street with Laura Ramsey and Toby Hemingway. It's all about runaways living the street life. Some pretty hardcore stuff actually.

Currently I have just completed a script for my next feature film "Urban Struggle" about Jerry Roach the owner of the Cuckoos Nest. A west coast punk rock club in Costa Mesa, Ca. The club was only open from 78 to 81 and was home to the start of slam dancing. But in those few short years so many things were born inside this little club in orange county that still live on in the mainstream today. Recently we premiered a documentary on the subject called We Were Feared at the Newport Beach Film Festival.

Have you ever been to York, Maine?

No I haven't! But I've always wanted to.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

I think it was pretty much always inside me. Probably my dads fault.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

As a filmmaker so many things inspire me daily on so many different levels. I just started doing it one day and I keep pushing myself everyday since to get better and better. Sometimes the least expected moment can be the most powerful inspiration of all so I just try to be present and let it come to me now.

What is the best thing about being one?

For me it's the opportunity to create something unique and entertaining that people choose to sit and enjoy. Especially in a day where the choice is all in the hands of the viewer. I really appreciate the chance to move people on an emotional level.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Making movies takes an enormous amount of drive and commitment and can be very frustrating at times but for now I still enjoying everything I get to do. Theres something to be learned from both the good and the bad.

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

Stanley Kubrick

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

When I was younger and just starting out there was a lot of fear and mystery as to what to expect from trying to make a movie but now that I've done it a few times I feel so much more educated and confident.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants tomake it in the movie business?

You just have to get out there and do it. Remember it's all in the story so create something that can realistically get made with what you have access to around you and if the story holds up then you should be fine.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

At this point in my life nothing really. Its pretty much all I'm every doing.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker?

I'm not sure if you'd call them jobs.

How would you describe your film education?

A little of this and a little of that. I've been pretty lucky to meet a lot of great writers and directors over the years and each one has opened my eyes to so many different ways of doing things. I'm still learning and I think I'll always be.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

It's Hollywood. It's the heart of it all.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

It's made it possibly for every filmmaker to get there content out there and be seen. I think it's very inspiring. The Internet has opened a lot of doors, some that aren't even seen yet.

What is the casting process like?

Casting is it own, very unique part of the filmmaking process. For me I try to build on screen relationships and chemistry as well as give the audience visual personalities that are engaging and enjoyable to watch.

You could have any super power. What would it be?

Read minds and fly around obviously.

Would you ever live on a farm?

For sure. Somewhere by Mt. Hood.

What is your opinion on movie remakes?

I'm not a big fan of remakes in general but if done right they can capture the hearts of the modern audience just as the original did in it's time.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Depends what book.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

For more information on current and upcoming projects got to: http://endurancepictures.com

Thanks for doing the interview. I'm definitely going to check out your production company website. Hope you'll come back and do another interview when "Urban Struggle" is ready for distribution.

Interview John Bosley

Born on an Air Force Base in North Dakota, John Wayne Bosley was named after the legendary actor John Wayne. At age seven he started writing short stories. By age twelve he was writing longer stories with more involved story plots and also his very first screenplay, "The Knight Story." This screenplay kicked off his film making pursuit. In 2001, Bosley wrote the script, which would later be the film: “The Allan Carter Saga Part I: Amnesia.” "Amnesia" took six and a half years from pre-production to completion and toured six theaters throughout Maine in 2008. Currently, he is producing the feature film THE HOUSE, which goes into production Sept 2011.

What is the current project you are working on?

I am currently working on producing THE HOUSE, which we are shooting in Sept-Oct. We’re currently doing a crowd funding campaign for the film on indiegogo.com

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

I started writing since I was 7. But I didn’t realize till I was 12 that my stories were really just screenplay ideas. That’s when I wrote my first screenplay The Knight Story. Since then I’ve always wanted to make cinematic stories.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

My stories. Usually someone will mentioned a certain film or a certain filmmaker. For me it was always about my stories. I loved watching movies, but I don’t believe at the end I would have stuck it out this long if I wasn’t motivated by my own stories. I didn’t find myself drawn to the hype, popularity or money that people see in the Hollywood lifestyle. I just felt responsible to the stories that I wrote, that they needed to come alive on the screen.

What is the best thing about being one?

The reaction on the audience members’ faces. When a scene really works and they react accordingly, then you know you did your job. The other one is having a positive influence on cast and crew members. It’s not just about the project, it’s about the people you brought along. A film, at it’s best is the “flavor of the month”, but if you made a positive influence on the people you worked with you can have a legacy which has greater value.

What is the worst thing about being one?

The loss of time. Time isn’t money. Time is priceless and every second you spend on a project, whether it is made or not, is time spent. I wish filmmaking wasn’t so time consuming. I’d love to spend more time with friends and family. But this is what I do.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

I made one feature: The Allan Carter Saga Part I:”Amnesia”. I also created AWAKENING which is a micro-pilot for a TV show that we hope to make. I am currently finishing up the micro-pilot Foreshadow that we made for The House (which will be released online for free in August). And I am currently producing The House, which is being shot in September.

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

I don’t have a favorite filmmaker, but favorite films. I love Psycho and The Birds for their use of suspense. I love Signs for it’s use of the “deumont”/climax. I love the Michael Mann version of The Last of the Mohicans for casting, use of nature, cinematography, music and screenplay. I love Star Wars IV for it’s simplicity and epic-ness without going over the top like today’s films.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

Do some serious soul searching. Find out why you really want to do this. This is one of the hardest businesses to bust into. Everyone you meet in this business is fighting to find their big break twice as much as you are.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

Spend time with family. Listen to music. Read books.

How would you describe your film education?

I tell people I graduated from the “James Cameron school of film“. People look at me odd after saying that. He didn’t go to film school. He owed so much money for his degrees in History and English that he had to teach himself. So he went to UCLA and read every text book they had. Then he borrowed people’s thesis papers and photocopied them so he could teach himself everything there was to know. If you want to know how to make a film, find the books, teach yourself, write your screenplays and make it happen. You only learn by making your own mistakes.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

Michigan went from number #3 for a state with the most production to almost no production overnight with the new governor. We had a ton of enthusiasm for this new industry, then it dissolved. There are still some films being shot because they were OK’d for the tax incentive prior to the new governor, but things aren’t the same. But I gained something valuable. There are tons of cast and crew people in this state hungry to break in and make a name for themselves. I have connected with a ton of them. I am seriously impressed with the cast I found for The House. They are perfect for the characters I had designed. The situation may not be great for the industry in this state right now, but I have found exactly what I need to make my next film happen.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

It has created interaction between filmmakers and the audience and has helped to create more bonds amongst the people who make the films.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

It’s a tool. The tool doesn’t revolutionize the business. What you do with it can. I think if you network right, give people a proper understanding of your vision and cause you can gain support. But just because the tool exist doesn’t mean it’s going to work for anyone.

What is the casting process like?

I’m very interactive. I don’t have people just read lines. I have them do many different improvisational moments. I have people read for characters opposite than what they wanted, to see what they do in different situations. I also have a tendency as an actor to also read lines with the actors as well which is unique from other directors.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Independent is driven by story vs. mainstream which is driven by trends.

You could go back in time and see any classic film being made. Which film would it be and why?

Star Wars IV. Everything changed after that one was made. I liked how the vision he had was impossible but they found ways to make it happen.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

“As you wish”- Princess Bride. It was a simple statement with a hidden meaning.

What is your opinion on movie remakes?

Don’t. Period.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptations?

The two forms of literature are completely different and need to be seen as such in the screenplay form and on the screen. Books tell people’s thoughts, they describe things. Movies are a story in pictures.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

People who want to get involved in The House can go to http://www.indiegogo.com/The-House-film-1

 

 

 

Thanks for doing the interview.  I hope we can do another interview sometime after September, when shooting has wrapped. I'll be sure to spread the word about "The House".

Lindsey Marks, AKA Lady Jack Interview

Lindsey Marks, also known as Lady Jack, is a performer and producer in Chicago primarily working in the field of variety and burlesque entertainment. As a burlesque performer she has appeared extensively locally, as well as nationally, including the New Orleans and New York Burlesque Festivals. Lady has written full length physical theatre pieces for stage for ensemble and solo work and appeared recently as a feature performance artist at TEDx Midwest.

Lindsey arrived in Chicago with a BFA in Theatre from University of Louisville and has been making her way into film work over the last few years appearing in film shorts and music videos. She is currently working on the feature film "Heaven is Hell" in which she plays the lead character of Faith, and will be taking on a more conceptual development and writing role for the webseries "Hitwomen"

For more information and a full bio you can visit LadyJackEntertainment.com 

What is the current project you are working on?

A new action and dark comedy webseries called Hitwomen with Producer and Director Christopher Sato...we are currently raising funds on Kickstarter!

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

My "what do you want to be when you grow up" sheet in 1st grade read, in no particular order, Writer, Actor, Singer, Psychologist. So the answer is...kind of. It's only been in the last few years that I've been afforded the opportunities to start working on film and I love it. I am primarily a physical theatre performer, Burlesque and Performance artist under the stage name Lady Jack, I produce Burlesque shows...I also work with photographers and fine artists.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

Hitwomen will really be the first project where I'm taking an active role in the conceptual development of the idea and writing. I've worked on films as an actor prior to that, and I just deeply connect to the process. I've found that many of my ideas in terms of my own solo or group live performance work are inspired by film, are starting to incorporate multi-media ideas, and are starting to actually be short film concepts. I had worked on several projects of Chris Sato's before this, and most incorporated some level of action, and since it's my now not-so-secret goal to be an action star, it's worked out well. I love the choreography that goes into a well-executed action scene and the extreme excitement that comes with the juxtaposition of wit and violence, and exploring a fully developed character's motivations in those kinds of scenarios And, particularly in more comic-base genres, the concept of archetype and how that manifests is something I really connect with and want to pull into some of the work I do.

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

I enjoy Tarantino, Coen Brothers, Danny Elfman to name a few

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

Kill Bill, Inglorious Basterds, No Country For Old Men, Fargo, The Matrix, Whale Rider, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Little Miss Sunshine, Sunshine Cleaners (Definite sunshine trilogy there) The Dark Knight, Lost in Translation, Nightmare Before Christmas, Network, Best in Show, Kung Fu Hustle...Seinfeld, Buffy, The Muppet Show...Hard to narrow down a list.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding and recent crowdfunding scandals?

I'm not sure about scandals, but I think crowdfunding is absolutely fantastic. I used to work for a organization that offered business support for non-profit arts groups, and really there has been very little structured funding for individual artists available. I think having a more institutionalized support system due to the glory of the internet should be a welcome development.

What is the casting process like?

We prefer to hand-select from our network, and gear roles around people we are close with, like Jolie Roberson who will be playing Raven in Hitwomen and is also working on the show in other capacities. Of course, if there is something specific we're looking that we don't have in our current group we'll hold more open auditions.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

I think independent anything differs from mainstream anything in that it doesn't tend to have the same high financial stakes, and therefore enjoys more freedom of complete expression. When money becomes a main motivating factor, and you are dealing with mass quantities of people, making something at least somewhat easily consumable is number one...sometimes that's in line with a vision and sometimes it's not and that's where you can get a diluted piece of work.

You could go back in time and see any classic film being made. Which film would it be and why?

The Great Dictator. Such a phenomenal film, and I'd love to see how Chaplin approached that.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Right now it's "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore" because I just watched Network and now realize why my father used to say that all the time.

You could have any super power. What would it be?

Oh I'd fly...shapeshift perhaps. This is the most difficult question...

What is your opinion on movie remakes?

Mostly my thought tends to be "Was that really necessary?" And...I suppose it's really not, but they can be good and particularly interesting if it's a remake of a movie made several decades prior.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

I'm all for it. People will inevitably have a preference of which they like, and often they are not stylistically spot on to each other. And also, often it's more a marketing device than a real desire to spread a story. That said, I think re-telling stories in different formats is valuable whatever the motivation.

 

 

 

Thank you for doing the interview Lindsey AKA Lady Jack. I can't wait to see Hitwomen. Keep me posted on the series' progress and let me know when it's on the web.

Joseph Brandon Interview

Joseph Brandon got the bug to pursue acting a little later in life, while he was in college. After graduation with a degree in Management and Finance he moved to Los Angeles to see what kind of career he could make for himself. Being a natural joker and being someone who doesn’t take himself to seriously, he gets along with everyone that he meets. Before this year Joseph has landed 13 lead and supporting roles in everything from shorts to feature lengths as well as numerous commercials, print work and music videos.

2011 has started out to be a great year so far. It started out by landing a spot for Mun2 (similar to a Latino MTV) which shows primarily music videos and tv shows designed for younger Latino’s with the majority of the programming in English. After that he also landing a print shoot for a pharmaceutical company. More noteworthy he has landed 3 lead roles as well as a supporting role this year playing everything from a drug dealer to a serial killer to a psychiatrist.

Wanting to expand his talent he has studied improv/sketch comedy as well as traditional scene study. He studied improv at the critically acclaim iO West Theater in Hollywood. He was also part of a group who performed a sketch comedy show earlier this year at Second City Comedy in Hollywood. Even while he is trained at improv/sketch, film and television still remain his main focus. Most recently he has studied with Gregory-Berger Sobeck, MFA who is the current winner of the Backstage West Readers Choice Awards for favorite scene study teacher.

Check Joseph out. He's all over the internet

http://www.josephbrandon.net

http://www.imdb.me/josephbrandon

http://www.facebook.com/ActorJosephBrandon

http://twitter.com/joseph_brandon

 

What is the current project you are working on?

I have a supporting role in a film called Exit 13 which should be filming next month. Shooting had to be pushed back because of scheduling issues. I'm doing a short that should be filming next week.  Also have a lead role in a film called The Religion where I am a drug kingpin named Pretty Tony, which I'm really excited about because the director, Andretti Dante, is really going to give me leeway to try a lot of new things.

Did you always want to be a actor?

No actually. I didn't really get the desire to pursue acting until college.

What inspired you to become actor?

I've always been pretty funny (in my mind anyway). I love making people laugh whether it's a physical gesture, something I say or a facial expression. I just like making people happy. Plus I love telling stories because all of the attention is on you. When the audience is captivated but what you are saying and you have their full attention it's just a really great feeling. It's kind of odd because I was a dork growing up, shy, not wanting to have the attention on me but somewhere along the way that changed. I'm not really sure when, maybe college. There are a lot of actors out there who are the same person in every role they play but 2 actors that I really love and respect are Daniel Day-Lewis and Gary Oldman. I love the way they transform into completely different characters for every role that they're in. That's very inspiring. I want to be able to do that.

What is the best thing about being one?

Acting is the closest thing we can get to, to being a kid again. When you're a kid and you say out loud, "I'm a sheriff", in your mind you are completely that thing. You are no longer a kid, you're a sheriff. Your hand is a real gun. I miss being able to do that without judgement. If I said out loud, "I'm a sheriff" and started running around in circles shooting things with my hand, people would think I'm crazy but if I didn't it in a film people would think the character is crazy, not me. Acting gives me the freedom to just let loose and have fun again. Another thing is the feeling I get when I'm completely connected to the other person. My actions and objectives are completely focused on the other person. During that scene I am living in that environment with the other actor. I forget that I'm Joseph Brandon, I forget that there are cameras, I forget that there is an entire crew there. I am that character for those few minutes. That feeling is intoxicating.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Not having the opportunities or not being given the opportunities to be able to do what I love doing. Oh and being a poor struggling actor is no picnic either.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

Total number of leads (about 10), supporting (about 10) , featured extra (about 5), extra (about 10), commercials (about 5), music videos (about 5), print work (about 5). About 50 all together. Granted the featured extra and extra work was about 3-4 years ago and shouldn't really be counted so I guess it's closer to 35.

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

Directors, in no particular order: Francis For Coppola, Oliver Stone, Sam Mendes, Steven Spielberg, James Cameron, Robert Zemeckis, Cameron Crowe, Martin Scorsese, Christopher Nolan, Quentin Tarantino. I hope I didn't forget anybody.

How has your life changed since you became an actor?

If I didn't become an actor I would be married to girl a didn't love, live in a city I didn't like and have a job that I hated. I'm poor but I'm happy, kind of like Alanis.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

Don't get into it to be rich and famous. Get into it because you love acting. You have to love it because making it as an actor is a lot of hard work and hustling, everyday. Everyday you have to do something that helps you, either on the business side or on the craft.

What do you like to do besides acting?

Usual stuff, hanging out with friends, watching movies, going to the beach, lounging by the pool, video games. I would one day like to be a licensed sky diver though. I've been twice, once in Texas and once in Hawaii and it's amazing. Especially in Hawaii, the rush you get plus the view was ridiculous.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become an actor?

I am the stereotypical actor, I've been a waiter for the last 3-4 years at a couple of different restaurants.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

This is going to be a long list. For movies: Caddyshack, Constantine, Dark Knight, The Departed, Forrest Gump, The Godfather, Inception, Jerry Maguire, The Matrix, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Old School, Reservoir Dogs, Sideways, Training Day, Usual Suspects, 12 Monkeys, Weird Science, Tombstone, There Will Be Blood, Swingers, Super Troopers, Sixth Sense, Scarface, Pulp Fiction, National Lampoon's Vacation, Napoleon Dynamite, Menace II Society, Memento, Jurassic Park, Half Baked, Groundhog Day, Ghostbusters, Friday, Fight Club, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Dogma, Devil's Advocate, Clueless, Clerks, Casino Royale, Boyz N The Hood, Boondock Saints, Big Lebowski, American Beauty.

For TV: Southpark, Seinfeld, That 70's Show, It's always Sunny in Philadelphia, Sopranos, Family Guy, Glee, Fringe, Entourage, Modern Family, The Daily Show, The Mentalist, How I Met Your Mother, Colbert Report, American Dad, Hawaii Five-O, House, The Office, Tosh.O, Louis, Mad Men.

That should be enough.

How would you describe your film education?

I've studied with a lot of acting instructors. Proclaimed film acting classes, audition classes, cold reading classes but most of my training has been scene study with Gregory Berger-Sobeck. He has his Masters from the Yale School of Drama so he teaches us what he learned from Yale as well as incorporating elements of Stanislavski and Uta Hagen.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

It's LA so it's where stuff happens.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

From my experience, it's easier to get funding now as well as get the word out about a movie. You can post something of twitter, facebook, youtube and ask you're friends/follows to repost it and it just gets the word out so much faster now. You can shoot a trailer, put it on youtube to help get funding for the project. Plus sites like kickstarter are amazing at helping projects get made.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

I think it's more gorilla style, depending on the budget. More sacrifices have to be made since the money isn't there. But that situation can inspire true creativity because the money isn't there to do a particular scene, it has to be retooled and adjusted and it takes creative people to be able to do that successfully. I think with that in mind indies can be more story/character driven because you don't have the money for big effects so it's more about the relationship between the characters and those can be some of the greatest movies.

You could go back in time and see any classic film being made. Which film would it be and why?

Empire Strikes Back because I'm sort of Star Wars nerd. I mean I don't dress up and go to conventions but I've seen all 6 numerous times plus I've read some of the SW novels. The Jedi Academy Trilogy, The Thrawn Trilogy and some others. Empire is arguably the greatest of the 6 plus it was a relatively low budget, less than $20 million. It would be amazing to just be there and see the entire process, the different locations, the sets plus they were ahead of their time with respects to special effects.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

There are so many amazing movie quotes but when you ask a question that broad, I can't focus, it's just too opened ended. I guess I'll go with "I gotta pee" from Forrest Gump. It's silly and stupid and I get to say it everyday. It just makes me laugh, but you have to do it with the voice or it doesn't work.

You could have any super power. What would it be?

Teleportation. It would save me so much time traveling. I wouldn't have to worry about traffic, no car payment, vacations would be sweet. Wake up, teleport to Paris, spend the day, then teleport back home before I have to go to work the next day.

What do you think would of happened if the dinosaurs didn't go extinct?

I don't think humans would have made it.

What is your opinion on movie remakes?

I would say 90-95 percent of them aren't necessary but every once and awhile you'll get an Ocean's Eleven. Scarface and The Departed are both classics.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Hopefully one day you'll see me on the big screen.

 

 

 

Thanks Joseph for doing the interview.  I appreciate a good Alanis Morissette. I'm a big fan of the Exit 13 cast/crew. Good luck with the rest of filming :)

Daniel Knight Interview

Daniel has fast built a reputation as one of Melbourne’s most prolific short-form directors. With sixteen year’s worth of experience in theatre and film, Daniel has won awards both locally and internationally. Daniel has a vivacious appetite for differing production styles and moods and has directed commercials, corporate videos, short films, documentaries, web serials and music videos. 

You can watch Daniel’s film at www.snowgumfilms.com and see the Troll Bridge Kickstarter page at www.kickstarter.com/projects/snowgumfilms/terry-pratchetts-troll-bridge

What is the current project you are working on?

I’m currently knee deep in two projects! We’ve almost wrapped up post-production for an intimate short film called Blood On The Game Dice, which is inspired by my days playing Dungeons & Dragons. We’re also in the middle pre-production for a stupidly large scale, short film called Troll Bridge, adapted from a short Discworld story by Terry Pratchett. I guess I’m a bit of a fantasy nerd.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

I knew I always wanted to be an entertainer… I just didn’t know how or in what field. When I was a kid I wanted to be a magician and used to perform magic shows for my family in the living room. Later on I discovered acting, and thoroughly enjoyed it to the point of pursuing it heavily in theatre after High School. I ended up packing everything up and moving to the other side of the country to follow that dream. Filmmaking obviously came after all this, but it was these steps that lead me to where I am now.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

While I was acting, I was directing on the side – it was something I was interested in and I thought it would give me a better insight into acting and improve my performance ability. Eventually I came to the realisation I was getting more excited by directing than acting. I’ve found myself directing ever since!

What is the best thing about being one?

It’s a job that requires equal parts art and technology, and I’m a huge fan of both. Is also requires such a broad spectrum of the arts, from performance, to writing, to set design and costuming and makeup, to musical scoring and photography… there really isn’t another art form that reaches out to as many other art forms. I love the collaboration with other artists and working to that singular goal.

What is the worst thing about being one?

The demand I think. It’s not something you can go into half-hearted and you have to really embrace the sacrifices you need to make to pursue it.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

Over 40, not including the stuff I’ve acted in, and not including my theatre work.

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

Currently it’s Danny Boyle. I’m a huge fan of his focus on characters in what are essentially genre flicks.

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

I’ve met a lot of awesome likeminded people! It’s feels great to belong to an extended family of creative storytellers.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

I wouldn’t classify myself as someone who has made it in the movie business, but I never shy away from giving advice so here goes:

Just to go out there and do it. Don’t worry about film school, or expensive equipment, or (for that matter) even trying to get it right first time. You won’t. The important thing is to have passion – make a heap of mistakes – and learn from them. Provided you are making content, you are moving forward.

Beyond that – your two most important things are your script and your actors. You can’t make a decent film without either of those things being decent – don’t think for a moment that the whole of a film can be better than its individual ingredients – it can’t. Write and act as much as you can so you learn to recognise what is good and bad. That actually goes for all departments, but I find that bad acting and writing particularly grate me. It’s something that is very easy to get right – but people screw it up all the time.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

My favourite film has always been The Dark Crystal, but I also love films such as Moulin Rouge, Old Boy and Braindead. I might have eclectic tastes. Television wise, I loved the work that was done for The Wire and Deadwood, and I’m currently thoroughly enjoying Spartacus and Game Of Thrones. Also a massive fan of British television comedy with The League Of Gentlemen and Red Dwarf being pinnacles for me.

How would you describe your film education?

Home Schooled predominantly. I applied everything I had already learned through theatre, and integrated it into film. Which is maybe why I’m very passionate about writers and actors – in theatre it’s pretty much the one consistent you can’t get away with screwing up.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

Complicated. We currently have an art focus which isn’t on genre (although that is slowly changing). All of my films are very genre driven for genre audiences – so it’s very difficult to get funding support here. But that doesn’t really stop me or other genre-driven filmmakers here from making the content we ourselves would like to see.

But that doesn’t really describe the “scene”. I’d say that there are a lot of filmmakers here who are happy to help each other out where we can. We’re all in the same boat together, so we’re very supportive of one-another.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

It’s been essential for us. Without it we wouldn’t have been able to get funding for Troll Bridge for starters! It has also allowed us to reach and keep our audience informed at a minimal expense. This is extremely important to us given we’d rather put all our dollars into the actual films.

What is the casting process like?

Always enjoyable. As mentioned - I like actors and I write my films for them first and foremost - so it’s always a buzz watching them bring your characters to life.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Here in Australia it really doesn’t. There is almost no such thing as an Australian mainstream film. It’s mostly art-house wank… excuse my language. I don’t have a problem with art-house, it has a place, but not at the expense of genre or films that get bums on seats. Our mainstream content is dominated by the US who seem to thrive on genre. Love it – I wish Australian films were as audience focused!

Independent film must source their own budgets – while mainstream films usually have studio backing. Because studios are much more focused on turning a profit, their films are catered to a larger crosscut of the audience spectrum. Personally I believe it’s possible to be both independent and mainstream, and the internet is making it easier to achieve that. Filmmaking in the future will be very democratic with funding only going to those films that people actually want to see get made.

You could go back in time and see any classic film being made. Which film would it be?

Without a doubt The Dark Crystal. That thing is utterly magical.

You could be any animal. Which would you be?

An otter! Always my favourite animal to see at the zoo.

You could have any super power. What would it be?

Laser eyes! Everyone loves laser eyes!

 

 

 

Thanks for doing the interview Daniel. I'm  gonna to watch "Dark Crystal".  Keep me posted on the progress of "Blood On The Game Dice" and "Troll Bridge". I do my best to spread the word about your projects.

Interview Govind Chandran

Govind, known as 'Guv', is a Malaysian film director/producer with a 1st Class Honours Degree in Film Studies from Oxford Brookes University. In the last few years he has worked predominantly on short films which have been featured in film festivals across the world. For the last year he has worked as the Technical Specialist in Film Studies at Brookes, and this July is producing and co-directing his feature film debut, The Mask of Sanity.

What is the current project you are working on?

I am currently working on my debut feature film, a psychological thriller called 'The Mask of Sanity'.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

Nope. Originally was thinking of doing Law, but never quite had the same passion for it as I do for filmmaking. In hindsight I couldn't imagine studying anything but film.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

Filming little filler bits for plays in highschool. We used to project some film stuff between scene changes to tie things together and I was asked to help film that. It was a lot of fun n I loved that. Then reading a lot about independent filmmaking and watching low budget films put it into the context of 'this is definitely something I can do!'.

What is the best thing about being one?

You genuinely love what you are doing. I think you'll find very few people who aren't passionate about their job if they choose film. For me I just love the whole process from start to finish, and seeing the end result is absolutely amazing.

What is the worst thing about being one?

It is a struggle. Breaking into the industry, or even making enough money to be able to do it full time is a very difficult thing.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

So far I've worked on mostly short films (directed 5 of my own) and corporate videos or online ads.

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

At the moment I would have to say Chris Nolan and David Fincher. Both I feel are able to make films that are intelligent and thought provoking, and original, yet entertaining.

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

I'm still young, and haven't really known professional life outside of filmmaking!

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

It's possible, but be realistic and work at it! What is incredibly common is people that want to make it in the movie business, yet aren't seizing every opportunity, and aren't working their asses off to build up a reputation, portfolio, gain experience, learn new skills, etc. At the same time it's not going to be a jump from nothing to blockbuster director overnight, but have a plan and put in the effort and things are achievable.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

At the moment, beyond socializing, and the usual relaxing (watching tv, films, music, etc) there hasn't been all that much time for anything else!

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker?

No, I studied Film Studies at university and have been making films since then so my whole adult life has been based on this.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?

My taste in films and tv is quite diverse. I do love films by Nolan, Fincher, and am quite into comic-book films, swords and sandals films (Gladiator being the peak of that but even older ones like Ben Hur), but also love Science Fiction (and am definately a Star Wars geek).

How would you describe your film education?

I studied Film Studies at Oxford Brookes University. The course was predominantly theory based (analyzing films, looking at film movements, etc) however there were a few practical modules. I would have to say though that a lot of my filmmaking 'education' came from just doing it - making independent shorts with my course-mates and learning by doing. The theory and practical modules at University provided a good backing, but there was a lot we picked up on the fly.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live?

Sporadic.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

It's definately made it easier to reach your audience, or at least get some exposure. However, it's also made it a much bigger pond and it's now up to us as filmmakers to distinguish ourselves and our film, which is quite a struggle at times in such a saturated crowd.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding and recent crowdfunding scandals?

I've had two very distinctly different crowdfunding experiences. The first time I tried using it, I received a grand-total of £5 and it was not worth the effort put into promoting it. The second time (which is now for The Mask of Sanity), we have raised (at the time of writing) over $8000. So personally I have not had issues with scandals relating to this but I have found that it does need to be used for the right project, targeted to the right people, and does take a lot of effort to really use well and not just be a simple thing of sending it once to your family and friends and hoping they contribute.

What is the casting process like?

The response (we use internet sites, including StarNow.co.uk and Mandy.com to advertise) has been quite varied depending on the project. For 'The Mask of Sanity' the response was terrific and we had a very wide and varied group to chose from, however I have been on previous projects where you are very limited in your options, and really just need to use who you've got available.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Finance, infrastructure, support, etc. I do think it's quite silly when you get films with millions of dollars in budget, by a studios 'independent' sub-label advertising itself as an indie film. It's quiet a big difference from what I would say is independent films that you see filmmakers putting together and producing themselves that most get screenings at festivals rather than a big theatrical release.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

I could list about a hundred favorite quotes, can't really narrow it down to just one!

You could have any super power. What would it be?

Prof X. powers from the X-Men would be pretty good to have. You could keep it low key and get by being incredibly amazing at whatever really.

What is your opinion on movie remakes?

Don't remake new films. Don't remake films shot for shot. Don't remake them just because they are in a different language or not from the states. However, if you take a film and 'remake it' by changing it and just taking core ideas from the original, after significant time has passed, then that I'm all for. Look at Oceans Eleven. I think both the original and the Clooney-Pitt version are fun films yet very different so it's not a direct remake, and enough time had passed that many of my generation haven't seen the original.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Hit and Miss. Lord of the Rings was fantastic in how the approached it. Loyal to the books yet willing to change to make a good film! And Peter Jackson constantly said this was 'his interpretation' of the books rather than a direct adaptation and that's really the best way to go about it in my opinion.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Follow us on twitter (http://twitter.com/#!/TheMaskOfSanity) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/themaskofsanityfilm)

 

 

 

 

Thanks Govind for doing the interview. Let me know when "Mask Of Sanity" comes out. I'd love to write a review.

Oktay Ege Kozak Interview

Oktay Ege Kozak is a Turkish screenwriter and film critic living in The Bay Area. So far, he wrote 7 feature screenplays and is working on his eight. He wrote and/or directed more than 10 professionally-made short films, one of which won Best Film at the 2008 48-Hour Film Festival. One of his feature screenplays attracted great interest from some of the biggest film studios in India. A TV show he co-created was put in development at CNBC-E in Turkey. He is also a film critic for Beyazperde.com, Turkey’s premier source for film reviews, showtimes and news.

What is the current project you are working on?

Director Salvador Luna and I are trying to put together the funds to make our first feature a reality. It's called In Another Life. I wrote the script and it's about a lonely young man who becomes convinced that a pretty book store clerk is his wife in another dimension. Kind of a Romance with a fantasy twist. We have all the shooting and editing equipment we need. We also have our 2 leads almost cast. We just need funds for locations and crew to make this happen.

We have our Indiegogo fund raising page at http://www.indiegogo.com/IN-ANOTHER-LIFE where people can donate and receive perks such as signed DVDs, invitations to the premiere and even producer credit!

I'm also in talks with a Turkish producer to cover our original $25.000 budget for distribution rights in Turkey. I figured the Turkish audience might be interested in an American film written and produced by a Turkish filmmaker (Me).

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

Ever since I can't even remember. Apparently when I was 5, I used to watch Disney movies on TV and tell my mother "I'm going to make one of these one day". Still waiting for that "one day".

What is the best thing about being one?

The creative rush while being lost in the middle of writing a screenplay. Unfortunately, it only arrives once every couple of years or so. The rest is painfully dragging myself to the computer to get some writing done.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Not actually being able to be one. You know, one that does it full time and actually gets paid and appreciated for his/her efforts.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on?

I wrote 7 features and over 20 short films so far. I have around 10 professionally made short films either directed by me or other people. A short film I co-wrote won the 2008 48 Hour Film Festival.

Who is is your favorite filmmaker?

Akira Kurosawa. I read a book about him that described him as the "trunk" of cinema. Meaning if all of film is a tree and the directors are branches, he is the trunk where all the inspiration and life power comes from. The more Kurosawa you watch, the more you can't help but agree to that.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to make it in the movie business?

Don't do it, the last thing I or any other struggling filmmaker needs is more competition. Also, your parents will thank you later on when they won't have to still pay your rent at 30.

I'm sorry, I don't mean to be Mr. Crankypants, but it's also kind of a test. The one common word I hear from every successful filmmaker regarding the answer to this question is "Tenacity".

No matter what anyone tells you, no matter what happens to you, you don't give up. Apparently, you have to be one dedicated and stubborn bastard and that's what I'm trying to be. So if you weren't even one bit discouraged by the negative comment above and KNOW that you can make it somehow, that's a step in the right direction, I hope.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I'm also a professional film critic. I write for Beyazperde.com, Turkey's most read film publication with over a million visitors a month.

How would you describe your film education?

Too much money spent with not much to show for it. I have a BA in Film Theory from Istanbul Bilgi University and an MFA in screenwriting from Academy of Art University in San Francisco.

What is your opinion on movie remakes?

As an original screenwriter trying to get anything noticed in this cutthroat market, I have a more personal beef with remakes. There are tons of great, unproduced stuff out there and with all the remakes, prequels, sequels and reboots, it's getting harder to sell and produce original material.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Please visit http://www.indiegogo.com/IN-ANOTHER-LIFE and donate whatever you can. Don't say "They're probably not going to reach their goal before the deadline, it's a waste of time". We get to keep whatever amount we can reach and any amount helps!

You can also download the screenplay from the Gallery section and decide for yourself if this is a story worth making. I hope you'll enjoy it!

 

 

Thanks for doing the interview.  I'll spread the word about  "In Another Life".