Actor Jayce Alexander Basques

Name: Jayce Alexander Basques

Title/Role: Daryl

Contact info: twitter.com/jjjayce

What is the current project you are working on?

-Deader Days, a fantastic macabre comedy, also and indie feature called Speak To Me in Poetry, as well as two indie features I'm working on.

How do you handle rejection?

-Nothing is good or bad until you label it. So handling rejection should be handled the way you handle acceptance; however, there is a lot more to be learned from rejection. In either case, ask yourself: What did you do well? Not so well? What will you do differently next time?

Did you always want to be a actor?

-Being a mimic and observer of people has always been a natural coping mechanism; in my case, my family takes pride in creativity and following passion. Every actor says they always knew they wanted to be one; but I don't quite buy that and I feel actors act for a lot of reasons that came into play later in their lives.

 What inspired you to become actor/actress?

-Probably being interested in stories and people; being apt to diving headlong into work is exhausting especially if you enjoy knowing everything there is to know on a given topic SO film allows you to do so in healthy doses without burning out.

 What is the best thing about being one?

-Working towards earning the right to truly call yourself one. Being a master of a given art requires at least 20 years of deliberate practice; the people who make that commitment know this. Casual hobbyists don't and are often quick and careless with the title of "actor."

 What is the worst thing about being one?

-There are a lot of people that call themselves actors that lack focus and work ethic... which can be tedious. You hear a lot of the first-person singular subject pronoun being thrown around in audition waiting rooms.

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

-Lots. But then again, tons were for practice and some never saw the light of day.

 Who is your favorite actor/actress?

-A few for very different reasons; Cary Grant was handsome and charming but so modest as though he is the only one who doesn't know it! Plus few actors can pull off comedy and drama so well. Paul Newman had a very subtle style, he let the audience come to him. Marlon Brando truly changed film by bridging the gap between movies and the theatre. Clark Gable, Henry Fonda, Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin are up there for me as well. James Dean was the embodiment of authenticity and living moment to moment in East of Eden.

 How has your life changed since you became a actor?

-As you become more aware of the world around you, you're able to assess your emotions and those of others around you better.

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

-By all means, do it. Don't assume any technique or school is the best, find what works for you and get to work. Audition for everything that interests you and if no one casts you, write your own material. Something you believe in.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

-My buddies and I are touring musicians in a band called DownDownDown and live band for a guy named Damato. We're also starting a brewery.

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

-Just about every day job possible; most recently and executive assistant, pizza delivery guy, graphic designer and attempted to get a gig as a part-time gravedigger; they wouldn't let me work at night and carry around a lantern though.

How would you describe your film education?

-TCM is probably the best free resource for actors and directors. My theatrical training consisted of graduating from The Meisner Technique Studio under Jim Jarrett in San Francisco.

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

-So many!! But let's start off with "The Big Sleep," "Stage Door," "The Great Dictator," "The Awful Truth," "Blow Up," "Cool Hand Luke," "East of Eden," "The Grapes of Wrath," "A Streetcar Named Desire," "Annie Hall..."

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

-I respect my filmmaker friends for their vision, drive and the work they stand for. My scene consists of the artistic family that you stay connected with no matter where you physically are.

 How has social media changed the independent film industry?

-Presumably it has given it a boost - the underdog is typically more apt to adapt to new media in order to survive.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

-What a great concept, like a collective consciousness of cooperation. It's popularity is overwhelming and hopefully it will continue to be a valid option while evolving and gaining further acceptance in the mainstream.

 How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

-The lines are so blurred now. At times indie aims for marketability; while mainstream aims to be him and appealing to the underground. So the grass is always greener... then there are the outliers of the mainstream commercial mega productions and the uncomfortable indie art films so... the breadth of it all is wide but the boundaries are ill-defined.

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

-Either "Citizen Kane," "Casablanca" or "East of Eden..." all of which we're unassumingly on the brink of major breakthroughs.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

-It'd be arrogant to think otherwise. Or at least if there isn't now, when can all agree it is likely at some point in the future or past.

Do you watch "the Walking Dead"?

-I haven't yet, unless I get it on dvd, it is hard to keep a tv schedule. Plus I usually cannot stand most commercial tv and radio. But that show looked interesting.

 What's your favorite movie quote and why?

-Anything from Humphrey Bogart... he has a knack for clever and hilarious lines without ever "delivering a joke."

 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

-They can have their upsides. A faithful rendition or organic continuation are all good in my book. Squeezing pennies from a franchise in a straight to supermarket dvd release can be sad. Anything done well, with integrity is ok in my book.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

-The consensus I've heard is that the films often fail to live up to the books and people familiar with both tend to be disappointed in one or another. Reading fiction isn't my thing, so my point isn't valid; but I see the book and the movie adaptations to be two distinct and separate creatures.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

-Thank you for talking to us and taking interest in actors and filmmakers. Talking about the craft is what helps us all gain perspective and improve.

Brandon Riess Assistant Director For "Deader Days"

What is the current project you are working on? Deader Days 

How do you handle rejection? With reflection, and leather skin.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker? As far back as I can recall.

What inspired you to become filmmaker? In my adolescence, and still to this moment, I am an introverted person. Instead of being outside in the sun riding Big Wheels with my "friends", I stayed inside and watched movies and television and became engulfed. I idolized what I watched and knew that's what I one day wanted to do with the rest of my life.

What is the best thing about being one? Living my dream, and being able to create something that can entertain people and make them forget their lives while they watch the products we produce.

What is the worst thing about being one? To be successful, like really successful, you must sacrifice the time you once devoted to everything else in your life. Your life and the time you spend making films must become synonymous.

What is the estimated number of projects you have worked on? I would put the number at 26.

Who is your favorite filmmaker? This answer changes every twenty-six minutes, but right now its Christopher Nolan.

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker? I have a sense of real fulfillment.

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

What do you like to do besides filmmaking? Studying films.

Have you had any other jobs before you decided to become a filmmaker? I "worked" at a grocery store for four years.

How would you describe your film education? Ongoing. I am currently studying at CSUN, but the best schooling is out in the field.

What are some of your favorite American films? Foreign films? Television shows?American FIlms: The Killing, The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, Kill Bill, Zodiac, The Hangover. Foreign Films: Let The Right One In, The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Played With Fire. Television Shows: Entourage, Boardwalk Empire, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Eastbound and Down.

How would you describe the film "scene" where you live? Very clique-ish and by the books. The books work only some of the time though. Your willingness to say "fuck the books" and go beyond regular means to get a project accomplished is what separates you from those who "fly" and those who "sink".

How has social media changed the independent film industry? Its changed the advertisement aspect, and possibly the exhibitionistic aspect to some regard, but I wouldn't say it has completely overhauled anything yet. Maybe it will, maybe it won't.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding? I lack strong experience with crowdfunding. From what I have seen, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Its a good thing to fall back on though, and a great way for anyone to get out their and do their thing. No more excuses.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream? It differs and it doesn't. Sometimes mainstream films lack the passion and substance of independent films because someone didn't literally bleed and spend their entire life's worth of money on it. That's not always the case though, only on occasion. Mainstream films can have a touch as well.

You could go back in time and see and film being made. Which film would it be and why? Apocalypse Now for sure. Those men bled for that piece of fine work. Most people would have died making it; it takes a certain type of filmmaker to keep on going no matter what.

Do you believe in life on other planets? Yes.

Do you watch "The Walking Dead"? No.

What's your favorite movie quote and why? Let me get back to you on that.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels? In the right place, at the right time, they can be wonderful. Each case is different. It has to be done with a certain touch.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions? I recently read the novella "Breakfast at Tiffany's". Perfect example of what NOT to do. What a disaster.

Is there anything else you would like to add? No.

Val Neminov Co-Producer

What is the current project you are working on?

Deader Days (http://bit.ly/DedrDys)

How do you handle rejection?

As just another step in this business, you will get a million No's but if you don't give up you will get that one Yes that can change your life. You can't be in this business if your afraid of rejection.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

No

 What inspired you to become filmmaker?

My best friend and business partner in 10 in 2 Productions, Brandon Riess

 What is the best thing about being one?

Waking up everyday and doing what really makes you happy! Not many people can say that about theirs jobs.

 What is the worst thing about being one?

Long hours and sacrificing a lot of your social life.

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

I honestly cannot recall at this point, if i had to guess over 40 different project, everything from short films, to features, to music videos and commercials.

 Who is your favorite filmmaker?

I love the works of Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino, as well as countless other talented directors and producers.

 How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

It became a lot more stressful but at the same time it has became a lot more fast paced, crazy, and definitely more rewarding.

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

Never give up and never settle for no or listen to someone who tells you that you can't do something. You only fail when you stop trying.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

I enjoy hanging with my friends and pretty much doing anything outgoing and exciting. 

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

I used to work at a grocery store and worked at a Starbucks.

How would you describe your film education?

Well I was thrown into it and learned and picked up as I went! When I fell in love with film and knew this what I wanted to do for the rest of my life I applied for CSUN film school which I'm currently attending.

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

Black Hawk Down is one of my favorite films, Dazed and Confused, any Rodriguez or Tarantino film, and of course the classics like Goodfellas and Casino. There are honestly to many to name. Entourage, Scrubs, Boardwalk Empire, and Family Guy  are some of my favorite T.V. shows.

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

I'm lucky to be surrounded by many talented individuals that  I go to school and that I work on projects with, and of course Hollywood is just a 20 minute drive!

 How has social media changed the independent film industry?

It pretty much revolutionized indie filmmaking and opened the doors for networking on a whole new level.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

It is an amazing tool to support indie filmmaking on a whole new scale.

 How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

The biggest way it differs is financially; in the same way you have to rely on friends and outside people to come through for you and dedicate their time and money and equipment for your project with no compensation. And this really shows the people who are in it for the right reasons and who will have your back if you have a million dollar budget or if you have enough to only order a pizza.

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

Without question it would be The Godfather. That film truly revolutionized filmmaking and most films today have in one way or another adopted something from that film.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

It would be ignorant to think we are alone in this vast universe.

Do you watch "The Walking Dead"?

No i haven't.

 What's your favorite movie quote and why?

I'll have to think about this one, too many to pick from.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

It's really a hit or miss.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

If done right they are remarkable works of art and really bring the book to life for the audience.

Is there anything else you would like to add? No

FilmmakerTravis Beauchamp

Travis Beauchamp is a 27 year old filmmaker from Mill Valley CA. He's  been making films since he was 8 years old and can't get enough.  Travis graduated in 2006 from UCSC with a degree in Film and Digital Media. Worked at InCA Productions as a production assistant and Associate Producer on the series "Keeping Score". Currently Executive Producer at East Point Pictures, specializing in music videos, non-profit promos and documentaries.Travis is currently producing a documentary series called "The Smash Brothers", about the teenage prodigies who turned a party game into a competition for thousands of dollars - and discovered themselves along the way.

How do you handle rejection?

The most successful people all have one thing in common: abject failures in their wakes. Rejection teaches you what to stand up for and what to fold on.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

I started making films when I was 8 years old so yeah, I guess always. To me, the process of filmmaking grew right out of "playing pretend" with your friends. You're actively fashioning a universe of your own making by putting images together like that. It's a controlled, personal exploration.

 What is the best thing about being one?

People have to accept your title as Executive Producer even if you're the only one at your company. XD

What is the worst thing about being one?

EVERYONE tells you what you should do. That's the fine line: how much creative input do you take from others until you've sacrificed your art? It's different for every filmmaker.

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

Since I was 8 years old? Well over 100 individual projects. From my first film "The Christmas Chresh", to subversive self-reflective college films to straight up documentary work as Associate Producer for InCA Productions to music videos for Berklee musicians (here's my latest: http://vimeo.com/28798926). I have yet to do porn though...

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Brendon Small. Hands down amazing writer/director/voice actor.

What is one piece of advice you can give to someone who also wants to

make it in the movie business?

It is always changing. You can approach it from a thousand different angles so don't worry if one path sucks the life out of you - another could be your calling.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

Music and video games. And food. I'm becoming a better cook lately.

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

I still do. I work part time at Patagonia to "make ends meet" (which they don't). Not ideal, but necessary at the moment. And as a company, you can't do much better than Patagonia.

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

Home Movies - nobody does it like Brendon Small. :)

Akira - beautiful, uniquely Japanese self-reflection on technology and social unrest.

Cowboy Bebop - greatest combination of music and animation since Fantasia.

 How would you describe your film education?

Mired in drugs. I did learn a few things in school, so go if you can, but I mostly rediscovered my passion after going to school for it, which is a shame. UCSC offers a great program... it's just they also offer great drugs.

How has social media / crowdfunding changed the independent film industry?

Crowdfunding through sites like Kickstarter or Indie Go Go can be amazingly effective IF you have an audience and the right story to sell. The game has changed since the studio days where one company dictated artistic norms and practices. You could write a dissertation on the subject, but the important thing is that you can now accomplish your goals through many different channels instead of floundering around as a fluffer in LA.

 How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Mainstream projects have lots of money riding on them, so they must necessarily appeal to the widest possible audience. Ridiculous  movies like Transformers 2 or Battleship or Battle: LA don't need to worry about catering to anything but our basest story expectations - every nationality can comprehend explosions.

Independent projects open the opportunity for connections to be made with a specific community or element of humanity. Not as much riding on it, but also not as much restriction.

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

2001: A Space Odyssey. I imagine Kubrick would be an interesting director to watch, especially on a project of such temporal scale.

 What's your favorite movie quote and why?

"It's game over man! It's just game over!" - I don't think this one needs much explanation. :)

Do you believe in life on other planets?

Absolutely. Though I don't think we will ever be able to make contact with an "intelligent" life form (we share 99% of the same genetic material with chimps, yet the closest we've come to communication isn't what I'd call intelligent).

Do you ever wish you had a super power? If so, what would it be and why?

Hells yeah. Teleportation. Makes everything in life a BILLION times easier.

 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

Eh. The batting average on sequels isn't that persuasive, but because of the grand slams (Aliens, Terminator 2) I'd leave the door open. Remakes, however, are blatantly stupid and should be punished with banishment.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

I think they can be done well. You just need a filmmaker who truly understands the source material. That much is key.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The future portends a lot of new incredible storytelling mediums - immersive video games where you experience and influence a story as it happens; interaction through massive multiplayer formats in a digital realm; total holographic experiences. It will be all encompassing and truly exciting. I just hope we keep what is important about our humanity as we explore.

Filmmaker David Baker

David was born in Scotland in 1966. His father was a movie fan, so he spent a lot of his childhood watching US blockbusters in the cinema. When the VHS market exploded, he also became a fan of US indie personal and exploitation genre films.

He moved to London in his twenties to study acting. He took part-time classes at the Lee Strasberg Studio, but he gained most of his experience from working on student films, and micro budget feature films.  To learn more about David and his films visit http://davidpaulbaker.posterous.com


What is the current project you are working on?

I am at the post production stage of SCREEN. A horror thriller about a group of people that are found dead in front of a drive-in movie screen. It was shot in Oklahoma in July. Financed from online crowd funding, and a lot of help from the people of Tulsa, Cleveland, and a filmmaking couple who I became friends with online.

How do you handle rejection?

haha! I was an actor for years in London. That was a great foundation for filmmaking. Being an actor is all about dealing with rejection. Even if you are good. Rejection does not even touch me anymore, I have too much self belief in what I am doing. I am human of course but I deal with it well.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

No. Acting was my passion. Then I started to write scripts, then that progressed to making things happen for myself. Now the passion for filmmaking has taken over the acting. Although I still plan to do some acting on other films too.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

I just wanted to be in charge of my own destiny. I was a massive fan of movies, but I can honestly say I never really thought about making my own until about twelve years ago. Until I started writing scripts. Even then, I never thought about directing.

 What is the best thing about being one?

The best thing about working towards being a filmmaker for a living, is the fact that you never really know what is around the corner. It's very challenging, and its a life of problem solving, but I like that. The thought of my life mapped out in front of me in the same job is not attractive to me. I'm sick. I like impossible odds!

 What is the worst thing about being one?

Incredible sacrifices for years in your life, in many areas, and no guarantees that your life will be good at the end of it. You don't pursue it for the money.

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

This is my third feature film. I acted in many short films and low-budget features in the past.

 Who is your favorite filmmaker?

I don't have one favorite filmmaker. My tastes also change a lot. I don't like many filmmakers I used to like. On a whole, I guess I like filmmakers that evolve. Most don't, they get the taste for Hollywood money. I like filmmakers like Eastwood, and I like how George Clooney juggles personal films with Hollywood. I also like guys like Steve Buscemi. I also like versatile filmmakers. You couldn't really pidgeon hole Kubrick. In terms of Hollywood directors, I like Ridley Scott's versatility. I am watching more foreign films in the last few years, when I get the time.

 How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

Like I said before, sacrifice. 7 days a week focus for years. Its only after 12 years I am starting to get meetings with the people that could say yes to a decent sized budget movie. I was never this broke, but my life is better because I have potential ahead. In the past I had more of an income but no hope of being a filmmaker for a living. It's very very tough, but I have gotten tougher along the way.

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

If your goal is to "make it", go do something else. The guys that made the "Blair Witch" "Made it", but drifted as fast as they arrived, like many filmmakers. You have to live it and breathe it, and not even think on whether you will make it. You do it because you have to do it. They key is to get good at what you do, and that takes years of writing, making cheap films, learning every area of the biz, and getting stronger and more focussed. Then, and ONLY then, you MIGHT have a chance of doing this for a living. Put it simple, making it is not the toughest part, doing it for the rest of your life is. So it better be a real in your blood passion.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

If you don;t spend 24/7 on pursing this career, you are bullshitting yourself. I don't do anything else. I guess that's sad, but I am on a mission in life, so focus is paramount.

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

Around 200 jobs. Most in London in my acting days. Waiter, dishwasher, factory working, you name it. A clown that scared the crap out of kids! I have had a life before I started writing. I met a lot of characters. It helps a lot!

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

I like well made big blockbusters from "Jaws" to the "Dark Knight", but I especially like character driven small films. I like the work of guys like Abel Ferrara, Darren Aronofsky, Paul Thomas Anderson. The Coens. I guess I am a fan of filmmakers who make personal films, but who also wrap them in a Roger Corman genre package. Tarantino does that, but I am not a big fan of his work over the last few years. I watch very little TV. About 1 hour a week.

 How would you describe your film education?

When I was an actor in London, I spent a lot of time in film school productions. Watched a lot of other budding directors, then I would go to all the London indie cinemas several times a week. Watched all the classics in every genre. I was there for ten years. My main film education was throwing myself into the deep end and doing it. My first movie was shot on film all over the world, and I had never even made anything. So my film school was that first movie. I am a big believer in just doing it, making mistakes, learning. Also, educating myself in EVERY area now, as you have to have a biz head too today.

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

I don't know, I don't involve myself with it. We have a Scottish funding body who fund all their favorites. Then we have a lot of moaners who complain they can't make a film, then we seem to have a new wave who are getting off their backside and shooting. Which is great. Now we have Hollywood shooting in Glasgow because of tax breaks. A lot of the films made here are still very issue drive, social realism, award agenda. I do my own thing. I was brought up with US movies and indie films, so I don't identify with the Scottish film community.

 How has social media changed the independent film industry?

It has obviously let filmmakers connect with potential audiences. I think it's a huge mistake to think we all have "fans" though. You build "fans" when you have a body of impressive work. But I think people support people. It's also helped to demystify a lot of crap. I remember when it was all a closed shop. Nobody would share their experience here because people want you to think many areas in the film industry are extremely skilled. Specialised! Well, they are not! Filmmakers sharing their experiences globally have managed to throw all that bullshit up in the air.Its also much easy to get access to casts, crews, music, locations, you name it. On my first film, the web was only a bulletin board. I am lucky enough to see when we didn't have all this technology and way to connect. I remember when it took half an hour to download a picture! My point is, people need to remind themselves we have it all here. We can do anything we want, but the key is to be great at what you do now. And driven.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

I have a love hate relationship with it. I don't care whether you are just asking for money on tweets, or you have all the best content you are pumping out, it still comes down to one thing, you are saturating communities with your project. You have a cap out! Which is tough when its full of campaigns.However, crowd fund has made SCREEN happen. My ideal type of crowd funding is when you get to the point you build up a community of people who like your work, and who WANT to know about your work. You then email them direct, show them your new project, and see who wants to throw in a few bucks. If you can get thousands of supporters that way, without having to saturate timelines, then that's the ideal kind of crowd funding. LIke Robert Greenwald done with his Iraq documentary. Went back to his mail list to fund the next one. I think it would be even possible to raise millions of you build a big enough fanbase over the years.

 How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Well at one time "indie film" used to stand for something else. Quality, individual, offbeat, original etc. Now it just means EVERYBODY! So the term independent film really doesn't mean much to me anymore. There's just as many bad indie films. For me personally, my vision of indie film is a cross somewhere in the middle. Not navel gazing Sundance agenda films, but not Hollywood formula. Like I said, I like films like "The Wrestler" "The Hurt Locker", where they are indie films but they are still accessible to a lot of people. I personally want to do character driven films like I loved from the 70's.

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

Damm, I think films sets are the most boring places in the world if you are not working on them, keeping busy. Theres so many. Maybe "One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest" I would like to be a patient that's hitting a punchbag with a stick! Or Maybe Stars Wars. I would have a big smile on my face, laughing at the crew who think Lucas who is making a pile of shit! I would tell him, "Its going to be alight George....In the first three flicks anyway! Until you get rich and fuck it all up!" Theres some movies and songs, pieces of art, pop culture, that seem as if they were destined to happen. It would be cool to be around that in a time machine. Especially when people are going, "Aww no, you can't do it this way!" "What is he doing?"

 What's your favorite movie quote and why?

Mean Streets. I fell in love with indie films after seeing this film 25 years ago. I identified with that world growing up in a rough area in Scotland, then living in rough areas in London."You don't make up for your sins in church. You do it in the streets. You do it at home. The rest is bullshit and you know it"

 What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

I don't care about remakes if you are remaking movies from many years ago. They can do with an update to a new generation. Nothing wrong with that, even if the original is a classic. However, I hate remakes when say a european film was only made a year before, and they remake for an US audience. I don't like that. On a whole, I couldn't really give a shit! I see Hollywood's side. I can understand why they have to go with a project that has a ready-made fanbase if they are spending a $200m. We can make smaller original films too now, so I don't have a strong opinion about remakes. Especially when people moan,  but they go and buy the ticket for a remake!

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Again, I see why they take the option of making movies from books, because of the ready-made market. And again, I don't see why people moan that "Ohh, the movie is not the same as the book, or as good. How could it be, the movie you have in YOU'RE head is as a reader is YOU'RE movie. Your imagination. So you can't really win there.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A little unashamed promotion here. Please check out my campaign folks! I need to complete my post production. Thanks!  http://www.indiegogo.com/screen?a=164336&i=addr

Below is a slideshow of behind the scenes pictures from "Screen"

[slideshow]

Filmmaker Katherine Brooks

Katherine Brooks ran away from her small town home in Louisiana to pursue a career in television and film when she was just 16 years old; with only 150 dollars to her name, Katherine slept in her car in the parking lot of a Hollywood motel.

Now, a decade later and with 14 years of experience in the film and television industry, Katherine has directed some of television's hottest shows and has recently finished filming her second movie, Waking Madison, in New Orleans.

Katherine's extensive list of film and television credits include three seasons of the Emmy-Award winning show "The Osbournes", the highly-acclaimed show "Newlyweds" starring Jessica Simpson, and MTV's groundbreaking "The Real World". She helmed MTV's "There and Back", the latest season of "Meet the Barkers" with Blink182 drummer Travis Barker, and directed and produced "The Simple Life" starring Paris Hilton.

Katherine moved into directing feature film several years ago, after gaining critical praise for her short films, Finding Kate and Dear Emily. Dear Emily can be seen on the compilation DVD entitled Watching You. Since then, Katherine's work has been screened at over 100 festivals around the world and she has garnered dozens of awards, including "Emerging Filmmaker Award" at the Italian Film Festival and the "Grand Jury Prize" at the Chicago Film Festival.

Katherine's first feature film, Loving Annabelle (writer/director), starring Erin Kelly, Diane Gaidry and Academy Award nominee Kevin McCarthy, made its premier at the prestigious Cinequest Film Festival in 2006, and won both the "Audience Award" and "Best Actress Award" at Outfest. Other awards for Loving Annabelle include "Best Feature Film" at Melbourne Film Festival (2006), Barcelona Film Festival (2006) and Atlanta Film Festival (2006), and the "Jury Award" at Paris Cinema Festival (2006); the film picked up six audience awards and four jury awards over the course of its six-month festival run. Loving Annabelle was released on DVD in December 2006, and soon became the number one selling film of its genre.

Katherine wrote and recently finished shooting her second feature, Waking Madison, a film which stars Sarah Roemer, Academy Award-nominee Elisabeth Shue, Will Patton, and Golden Globe-winner Frances Conroy. The film explores the journey of a young woman suffering from multiple personality disorder.

In addition to her impressive history in film and television, Katherine is a member of the Directors Guild of America (DGA). In 2007, she was a Jury Member for Samsung Fresh-Films, the largest teen filmmaking program in the USA, and was the recipient of the LACE Award for Arts and Entertainment, which honors women who have made a difference in the entertainment community.

What is the current project you are working on?

I just wrapped shooting a documentary called Face 2 Face where I traveled the country and met 50 random facebook friends.

What are the upsides and downsides to human interaction?

The upside is connecting and not feeling isolated and alone in the world. The downside is taking things personal when someone you have interacted with hurts you in some way.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

It has allowed more people to get their work seen and allowed fans to interact more with the artist.

How do you handle rejection?

It makes me want to work harder to prove them wrong.

What does success mean to you?

living with integrity and being proud of the work I do.

How have horses helped you?

They ground me and remind me there is so much more to life than we will ever know.

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

Yes. I used movies at a very early age to escape and to feel. My dream of making them never changed.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

Life and film. The magic and power movies have. The power to change us and to open us to things we may have been closed off to before.

What is the best thing about being one?

Sharing your work with others and watching how it effects them.

What is the worst thing about being one?

The amount of hours you have to work.

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

As a director, around 20. As a camera person, assistant, producer.....more than 50.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Cameron Crowe

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

I think I have always been a filmmaker, so yes and no.

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

No just means they don't understand. Never give up. Work harder than everyone else and make sure that whatever you are doing you put your entire heart and soul into it.

What do you like to do besides filmmaking?

Be in nature, travel the world and spend as much time with friends and animals as I can.

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

I worked as a trail guide on horseback, waitress, I had to dress in a chicken suit once WHICH SUCKED in the Louisiana heat.

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

American - Almost Famous, The Shawshank Redemption, Sunset Blvd., Finding Nemo

Foreign- Farewell My Concubine, Aimee and Jaguar, La Vie en Rose

TV - Kitchen Nightmares, Intervention, Hoarders

Documentaries: Stevie, Jesus Camp, Born Into Brothels

How would you describe your film education?

I quit high school and never went to film school. My education was life experiences and learning to share those experiences through moving pictures. I watch all the commentaries on every movie I watch and I also read screenplays as much as possible. I educate myself by watching those who I feel have mastered the craft and how they did it.

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

I was in Los Angeles for 17 years and I would describe that as quite horrific and competitive. I now live in New Orleans because of the tax incentives for film and also because the community or artist there is more about the work than the fame.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

I don't know what that is. let me google......okay, yes, well.....if you can do it, I think it's great.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Mainstream is more about creating a product that you know will sell to the masses where Indie is more about telling the story the way you want and not worrying about the "product" aspect of it.

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

Sunset Blvd. for sure! What an amazing film and amazing actors. It would have been a trip watching them.

What's your favorite quote and why?

Be the change you wish to see in the world - Gandhi ---- I believe when we change the reality inside of us it reflects in the world around us. I have tested this theory and found it to be true.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

Yes

Do you ever wish you had a super power? If so, what would it be and why?

No

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

If they are good and unique, I like it. If they suck, I don't care much for them.

What is your opinion on book to movie adaptions?

Same answer as above.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Go out and make movies!

Filmmaker Beau Batterson

Beau Batterson is an independent filmmaker out of Waterloo, IA.  After graduating from Full Sail in 2005, he's spent the last six years working in various aspects of film and video production.  His latest project, 'BOO!', is a spooky children's tale about three trick 'r' treaters who stumble upon a haunted house one Halloween night.  The writer and producer of the award-winning film, Batterson is currently fundraising at indiegogo.com/BOOmovie to raise more capital for festival entry fees.

What is the current project you are working on?

Right now I’m working hard on raising funds for BOO! to be seen in more festivals.  BOO! is the kind of movie I liked when I was a kid, it’s weird and spooky but enjoyable for the whole family.  As of now, it’s only been screened at the Cedar Rapids Independent Film Festival, and it won the Gold Eddy for a Student Short Form.  Once we end our fundraising campaign on Halloween night, we’ll start submitting to more festivals.

How do you handle rejection?

Rejection is always tough, especially for an independent filmmaker.  When your budget is next to nothing, you end up wearing a lot of different hats.  With BOO! first and foremost I’m the writer and producer, but I’m also the editor, the unit production manager, first assistant director, second assistant director, craft services, transpo, hotel, etc.  When you’re that invested, and your film gets rejected, it’s hard to not take it personally.  But you have to find a way to say “this is why this happened, and this is what I’ve learned from it.”

Did you always want to be a filmmaker?

Somewhere there is a video from 1989, when my dad bought our first video camera, of a four-year-old Beau in He-Man pajamas telling him we need to make a movie.  I have always wanted to be a filmmaker.

What inspired you to become filmmaker?

The earliest memory of realizing that films were made, and didn’t just exist, was watching some behind the scenes footage from ‘Who Framed Roger Rabbit.’ There was Bob Hoskins interacting with floating guns and hand-cuffs and what have you, but the final product had him wrestling with Roger and hiding him from the weasels.  That was when I discovered “movie magic,” and I’ve been inspired ever since.

What is the best thing about being one?

The best part of being a filmmaker, which also produces the most anxiety, is watching your final product with an audience.  Especially an audience that has no other investment in the film other than they want to be entertained.  You can show your film to your friends and family, and they’ll laugh or jump and tell you its great, but there’s nothing like watching complete strangers react, and react appropriately, to your work.  It’s amazing.

What is the worst thing about being one?

Money.  Money is always the hardest part, especially for an independent filmmaker.  Working multiple jobs trying to support your family while keeping your dream alive.  It’s not easy.

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

My IMDb page only lists about six different projects, but really I’ve done so many films both in school and more professional stuff that I've lost count.  I’ve done everything from feature films to shorts, music videos, documentaries, ghost hunts, weddings and funerals.  And in probably every department.

Who is your favorite filmmaker?

Usually my favorite filmmaker depends on the day.  Any filmmaker willing to take a risk is my favorite filmmaker.

How has your life changed since you became a filmmaker?

Life probably would have been easier had I chosen a more stable career.  I do a lot of freelance film work, and there are times when I’ll have multiple projects piling up, and then I won’t have anything for months at a time.  Had I chosen to be something like a bank teller, where I knew my hours for the week, knew where and when I would be, knew where my next paycheck was coming from, life would be just dandy.  But I wouldn’t be happy.

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

It’s a lot of work and a lot of sacrifice.  You’ll have to work when the work comes, which means you might have to miss some things.  Weddings, birthdays, etc.  It’s long days, weird hours, and only other filmmakers will understand why you do it.  But if you can surround yourself with people that support you, you’ll be alright.

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

Probably the best job I had before becoming a filmmaker was working at my hometown movie theater.  I was seventeen, working with some of my best friends, getting paid next to nothing.  But I got to see all the movies for free, which is really all I wanted.  Also, free popcorn.

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

My tastes in things are a little everywhere.  I think Pixar currently makes the best films, not just animated films. Kind of like we strived for with BOO!, Pixar just makes great movies, not just movies for kids or movies for animation fans.  But I also love Japanese horror.  Probably because they’re not afraid to alienate the lowest common denominator by being too bizarre.

How would you describe your film education?

Formally, I went to Full Sail in Winter Park, FL where I received my Associate Degree in Film and Video Production.  It was a great time, I had some great experiences, and met a lot of great people.  In addition to that, I’ve learned so much by being on sets and working with other filmmakers like BOO!’s director Adam Orton.

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

The Iowa film scene at the moment is pretty rough.  For a while, it was thriving.  We had a big state tax incentive that allowed lots of films to be produced in the state.  However, it was poorly managed, and resulted in numerous shady production companies milking the state for millions of dollars.  After that, the program was scrapped, and now all the films are going to either Michigan or Louisiana.

How has social media changed the independent film industry?

Social Media has been the best thing to happen for no-budget films.  With Facebook and Twitter, you can promote your film to so many more people than you could have ten, even five years ago.  With social media, we’ve been able to promote our IndieGoGo campaign to hundreds of people, and have raised half our targeted funds in just two weeks.  We have six more weeks to go.

What's your opinion on crowdfunding?

My experience with crowdfunding has been great so far.  We’re attempting to raise a relatively small amount, only $600, and mainly from friends and family.  IndieGoGo has allowed us ways to get the word out about BOO!, gave us a means to collect the money, and do it all from the convenience of a computer.  The downside of this is they take a percentage.  A fairly small percentage, but its still money that could be used for our film.

How does independent film differ from the mainstream?

Independent film allows filmmakers to take chances.  It allows films to get made that are a little out-of-the-box, that maybe don’t appeal to the lowest common denominator.  Mainstream movies have to appeal to everyone.  It’s why love stories and comedic relief are shoe-horned into action movies made to sell toys.  Don’t get me wrong, there is a place for those movies, but independent film is where art gets made.

 

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

There a couple of different movies from the late eighties I would have loved have been around, but as a kid.  I’ve always wanted to dodge the train from Stand by Me.  I would have loved to be a Goonie.  I would have killed to be in the Monster Squad.  And it would have blown my mind to be The Navigator.

What's your favorite movie quote and why?

“To infinity and beyond!”  I know I’ve already disclosed by love for Pixar, but that line is just a powerful statement about film and animation.  There is no place we can’t go, there is nothing we can’t do, and if we work hard and keep dreaming, we can get there.

Do you believe in life on other planets?

There has to be life on other planets.  It would be naïve of us to think that in the vastness of the universe, that Earth is the only planet with intelligent life on it.

What is your opinion on movie remakes and sequels?

I’m all for a sequel if there’s more stories to be told.  I firmly believe that Indiana Jones had more adventures in him after Raiders of the Lost Ark.  But his story was tied up, and The Last Crusade should’ve been his last crusade.  Remakes are fine because they bring old stories to new audiences, and some movies deserve to be remade.  True Grit is a great old movie that more people are aware of now that has been remade.  But A Nightmare on Elm Street is just as scary as it was in 1984, and it didn’t need terrible CGI.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Support independent film, and support local film.  One of the best ways you can do this is by going to an actual video store, especially independently owned ones, and renting a movie.  Forget Netflix, forget Redbox.  Those things are killing independent film.  Or, if you want a more specific way to support independent film, go to indiegogo.com/BOOmovie and support our film!  Even donations as little as $5 are greatly appreciated.

Thanks for doing  the interview Beau. I'll help spread the word about "Boo" I hope to see your film at a festival in Boston.