Gabriel Womack - Interview
Taking an acting scholarship to The New York School For Film & Television in 2000, two year full time, on camera program, he graduated with honors. Getting a manager after graduation, he booked his first audition on Law & Order SVU. NBC/Universal offered a part on Days of Our lives, he transferred to Los Angeles after five years in NYC. Started doing movies, commercials, was even asked to do a couple country music videos for Brooks & Dunn, and Big & Rich. Then was offered to star in a Syfy Channel movie Copperhead that filmed in Bulgaria. That led to another SyFy movie Triassic Attack two years later with Emilia Clarke from Game of Thrones in her first role as a supporting teenager. It took 14 months to write a modern day western called Brothers of Babylon that has won over 50 Best Screenplay Awards, and is fully funded. Because of the success of the western, was asked to be the head writer of a one hour action fantasy show for ten episodes.
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
Drama. A good chuckle is great, but a powerful drama can imprint on you forever.
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
Art imitates life. Hollywood is known for driving, and pushing whatever the current agenda or ideology is.
Which is the best Moment on set?
I love making other actors break character, and laugh with a little improv or just a look. At the beginning of a shoot I usually like to do something funny on my first rehearsal shot to break the ice, and gage the type of people I’m working with.
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
I had a lot of people tell me that being a paid actor on network television, or movies had a worse chance than winning the lottery.
How can you stay focused on your goal?
Treat it like a business. Don’t wait for something to happen, everyday I spend 8 hours doing something to advance my career.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
I’m 6’3” and play a lot of bad guys. Always lifting weights, and had long hair with a goatee. Then a role came up where they wanted me clean cut and not so intimidating, so I started swimming, eating baby spinach everyday. Then I got a notice from the grocery store I had been exposed to tainted baby spinach, which led to being sick so long it turned into a rare form of deadly Crohn’s disease that only 3% of people who have Crohn’s get. It almost killed me, has taken o we five years of chemo, infusions, and learning to walk from a shattered spine.
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
Every talent is a blessing. Those who say it’s a curse, and like to play the tortured soul, thriving off pity. A lot of people with talent are narcissistic. I pray everyday for the wisdom to make the right choices, and use whatever I have to inspire those who need it.
What would you like to improve about yourself as an actor/director/screenplayer?
I want to be better at networking. I was lucky when I started out. I treated it like a business, went to school, got a manager, worked everyday at it, focused on being the best at the roles I was good at, not the roles I wanted, got a big agency. But I never bothered with the party’s, or constantly trying to fake friendships to get roles, or promoting myself to show off. Now coming back into the game as a writer, after Covid, everything seems different. I wrote a modern day western “Brothers of Babylon” that I sent out, and was lucky enough to get fully funded. It was fortunate enough to win over 50 Best Screenplay Awards, and got me writing the first season of a one hour action fantasy series. But I need to be better at marketing myself, and not just relying on talent.
What's the worst critic you have received?
You’re too white.
If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?
Physical therapist
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
Gray.
A day without a movie is...
A workday, or a blackout…just in case, check if you’ve been kidnapped.
If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despise but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?
I have played a lot of bad guys I don’t like, but I use any notoriety to do good. I know you can do a bad movie that gives you the ability to make good ones, have the money and influence to do a lot of good for people. But if it came down to something that I morally despised, I just don’t think I could do it. I have lost everything before from illness, and have a close supportive family that means more to me than money. At the end of the day you have to look at yourself in the mirror.
What's your greatest ambition?
To support my family, and be someone that that inspires others. I would like to see myself get back to where I was before as an actor, and see my projects make it through distribution.
What's your biggest fear?
Letting my family down, dying too young from what I’ve gone through physically.
Does music helps you to play/direct, write?
Yes. I like to pick a song, and picture a music video for scene’s. It helps me to start finding the dialogue and tone.
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?
Keep those hands up…I’m walking outta here real slow like.
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
I wouldn’t be here without God, my family, especially my parents, and the fans who give us the chance to do what we love. If there’s any proof that God never gives you more than you can handle, and you never stop getting up off your knees when you get knocked down…me winning an Oscar is it.
Martin Zitter - Interview
Martin Zitter was born, raised, and educated in New York City. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War and as an FAA Air Traffic Controller in California until Reagan fired everybody. He then went into the stock market, got married, settled down, and had kids.
When did you decide to be an actor/director/screenplay?
I decided to write screenplays in 2021 after retiring from a 42-year career as a financial consultant, banker, and stockbroker in Beverly Hills and Pasadena.
How did your family react?
My family reacted by encouraging and humoring me and making sure that I ate well and got plenty of sleep and exercise.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
One of several sources of my inspiration is the fictional character Sandy Kominsky of the streaming television series “The Kominsky Method,” played by Michael Douglas. Also, “Save the Cat,” the Syd Field book, and the Heroes’ Journey.
Who's your biggest fan?
My wife of 37 years, Carol, to this day, is my biggest fan.
What brings you inspiration the most?
My grown children inspire me daily.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
I would like to work with a European producer to develop my project and would defer the choice of director and casting of actors.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
“2001 A Space Odyssey,” written by Arthur C. Clarke and directed by Stanley Kubrick is the ultimate adaptation.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
The movie that taught me the most is a toss-up between “The Grapes of Wrath” and “The Big Lebowski.”
About your artistic career, have you ever wanted to quit everything?
My artistic career is only two years old and I’ve never quit anything.
On set what excites you the most?
Seeing the action and hearing the words I wrote would excite me the most
And what scares you the most?
I am 80 years old and no one of my very critical family or friends has yet to comment on my memory or my driving or my faculties declining.
What's your next project?
My next project deals with the intersection of the 1960s Space Race, the Vietnam War, and the Sexual Revolution.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
Anthony Hopkins.
An actor/director/screenplay is made of ...
Emotional intelligence, eidetic memory, focus, concentration, attention to detail, perseverance, love, and happiness.
For you: Cinema is...
At its best an engrossing reflection of real life. My kids would take us to those frantic superhero movies which I have dubbed “assault with a cinematic weapon.”
Do you think black-and-white movies have a powerful impact?
Certain stories may be effectively told in black and white: Casablanca, Schindler’s List, Inherit the Wind, Twelve Angry Men, Psycho, etc.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
I don’t know you well enough to tell you about my dreams. Perhaps when we meet.
Do you think you're going to win it?
Not a chance in Hell.
Franco Nannucci - Interview
Born in Prato Italy on May 13 1966 (same day of his idol Stevie Wonder), did competitive sports as swimming, squash, tennis, rally raid with motorbike, twice the Paris-Dakar and thanks to this last adventures met Fabrizio Meoni that was his inspiration to start his humanitarian, music / video organization that operate in Africa, Italy and USA. Founder and President of Music for Love and QJP Music. The connection with Fabrizio Bosso, one of the greatest trumpeter in Europe and not only, was one of the reasons that made Music for Love what it is right now. He started his own business when he was just out of High School and moved from one project to the next till he moved in USA where he founded Textile Field USA 19 year ago. Always on the side of the most fragile and vulnerable, he believes education and sport can be strong assets to help children from unprivileged countries, regions or families to rise to a better future and use part of his resources to give back.
When did you realised you wanted to be a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?
Well honestly I never did ! In the sense that I have never thought I could be one and just started with some simple music video that needed to include a message, like "Simply the Truth" or "We Still have a Dream" that were part of our humanitarian / fundraising mission. Show me the Vision is actually an idea of our lead singer, Roc Flowers and Matilde Bergamini
Do you remember your first time at the Movies?
I do not remember exactly as in my days as a child, in Prato, Italy one of the weekend activities was to go to the movie theater on saturday or sunday afternoon, I can surely say that some of the first movies that impressed me were Saturday Night Fever, The GodFather, Once upon a time in America and some other italian movies.
If you should change country where would you like to work?
Well this is an interesting question I have to say, I have visited over 100 countries for business or leisure, and I lived and worked in Italy, France, Spain, Morocco and USA where I currently live. I think I would like to spend more time and maybe live in some african countries if I could, where we have some of our humanitarian projects with schools and more and where we could film and document so much ... I wish one day I can make it.
Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…
The Godfather for sure and The heaven/sky over Berlin also. So different and so powerful, the list is long.
What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?
I am not too familiar as generally I like to use non professional actors in our music videos, I like the idea to keep the natural / real look of a person in a specific situation. Of course schools are important if a young actor or actress want to go to the next level, acting is an art in my modest opinion.
Have you ever hated your ambition?
this question make me smile cause sometime I wish I would be able to say NO ! No to some complex projects, complexity is showing up when you like or want to do something bigger of what your ability, talent or resources can afford ... I am a specialist on all of the above ! But it is also the beauty of trying the very best every time. Mistakes, if not too many, help you moving up.
Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people”… was he right?
Well art in general can become an addiction, to the ones that perform it or produce it as well as the ones that look or enjoy it. So maybe he was right, in my opinion I wish more of the world population could be sick of film love, music love, painting love, poetry love ... art love, the world would be a better place, I think we could all agree on this, maybe also Francois Truffaut.
Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?
I see mother nature in all possible forms and I hear her sound.
Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?
Again the list could be long and it is not nice to forget many, Francis Ford Coppola, Marlon Brando, Massimo Troisi, Wim Wenders, Woody Allen and many more
About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…
As for the dream, actually dreams, I like to keep it/them secret cause as italian I am a bit superstitious ... and for the nightmare the same ! to avoid it may happen !
How important is to have a good Cinematographic Culture?
it is important to know, to know what was done and why, it can help to be critical. Sometime to be critical could just make you miss an opportunity because you know too much. so it depend how this culture is impacting everyone of us.
What would you like to improve as a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?
I wish there could be more open doors to the great creative people that are not in the position to invest important resources, I think even if there are many events and festivals that have this mission, if you take into consideration that you still have to invest several thousand of dollars or euros to try to get noticed, I wish more people could have this opportunity. I am not talking for myself but for the many many around, I see lots of great works that will never be visible to the world.
A big producer give you the chance to direct\to play (in) the remake of one of your favorite black and white Movie (if you have one)… what film do you choose?
The heaven/sky over Berlin of Win Wenders. I so much did not like it the first time, but it was like a bug in my brain ever since.
Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?
So far I have not found a person supporting me or my team, we support ourselves, we are so small and so new to this world. I agree on the fact that it is very difficult, to the point that to me like the music industry it is a club with closed doors. Either you know someone that can connect you with someone else or it is an impossible uphill mission and race. I could say also that it is similar to the music where you can easily spend a ton of money and get zero results cause today the "fauna" running around these industry is selling a lot of smoke and fake opportunities to many young and unprepared people. In my small capacity I already have a list too.
Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The script, the script and the script". Do you agree with him?
I can not argue with such an iconic person like him, this is sure. I think that before the script you need an idea, you need the sparkle that will be developed later into the script.
What’s your most ambitious project for the future?
I would like to travel and film many african countries but not to produce a film, more to produce a document, where images talk for itself and there is no need of words and sentences ... just some sounds, sounds of the daily life of the people and regions filmed. I wish I could have support in such a project by some sponsors or donors, I know we could do something unique.
Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy let be more creative?
This is what most authors are telling me. I share some of the vision related to sadness and melancholy to be inspiring and creative. Personally as we have way to much sadness around already, I like to believe that we can write with the smile, act with a smile, work with a smile and still be very serious with the messages expressed.
What do you wish to yourself as a Filmmaker\Actor \Writer?
I wish myself and my small team to be able to represent through our videos and movies as well as the music our society and help create a better environment, in fact for me it is like a mission. My real job is in a different field so I would like to have the opportunity to use a movies to send positive messages to the audience.
Pedro Ludgero - Interview
Pedro Ludgero was born in 1972, in Porto (Portugal). He works in a music school, but chose literature and cinema as his forms of artistic expression. He is a self-taught director, and, until now, has always produced very low budget films.
When did you decide you wanted to be a director?
Very early in life, I was perhaps twenty years old. But life didn't go as I expected... I am fifty, and at this moment I'm finishing my fifth short film... I do hope I can make up for the lost time...
How did your family react?
Very badly. They said that "I wanted to be nothing". But it wasn't just my family. Most people did not support my dream.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
Everything is a Muse for me: a handsome man, a little daffodil, a wall with graffiti... Beauty, inspiration is everywhere.
There is a filmmaker in my hometown (Porto) that taught me to be very organized, as a "poor filmmaker". But, in most respects, I'm his opposite person and filmmaker.
Who's your biggest fan?
Maybe everyone who has helped me, without thinking about money. Just because they like me and my art.
What brings you inspiration the most?
I like to talk about what I know. I would never discuss "racial" issues, for instance, because as a white man, I might be unfair towards that very delicate situation. I've been writing lyrical poetry for twenty five years. So I guess I carry on being a "lyrical poet" when I make films. The sun inspires me! If I were forced to choose only one subject, that would be the one!
Which actor would you like to work with?
If you mean a "movie star", I would say Emma Thompson or Louis Garrel. They look like they have something to say to us...but I'm very, very happy filming friends, relatives, unknown people... Everybody is glamorous! Love makes them glamorous.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
Robert Bresson's "L'argent" (the book was a short novel by Tolstoi)
What's the movie that taught you the most?
Fellini's "La dolce vita" - I never thought that a film could be so lively... But also Paradjanov's "The colour of pomegranates" - I never thought there was that kind of Beauty.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
Every day, every hour, every minute. Oddly enough, I keep going further, every minute, every hour, every day!
On set what excites you the most?
Mistakes. Things that don't work out as foreseen. The film that results from all those problems is much better than the one I had imagined, and is much nearer to what I really wanted to express.
And what scares you the most?
To accidentally shoot something that cannot be edited...
What's your next project?
I'm an agnostic, and I'm making a little film about Christian belief, trying to be as fair to my "enemy" as Clint Eastwood tried in "Letters from Iwo Jima"...
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
Victor Erice
A director is made of....
Desire, desire, desire, some doubt, and more desire.
For you Cinema is....
Making films is the best way to live. Watching films is the best way to think about life.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
I'd rather make a silent film, than a black and white one. I don't mind using black and white, if, at some point, colour returns (like a Picardy cadence in baroque music).
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
When I was very young, I dreamt about that sort of thing... But I've suffered too much and I've seen too much suffering. That doesn't matter anymore. It is a futile issue.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
No, I don't.
Stephen Michael Kelly - Interview
Stephen Michael Kelly, born and raised in New York City. Worked on Wallstreet and in corporate America. Woke up one morning and decided to be an artist in late 20’s. Married, lives in Los Angeles with wife Susan and Son Dylan. Animal lover.
When did you realize you wanted to be a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?
When I was around 28 and wrote a story about working on the NY Commodity Exchange in the World Trade Center for a powerful commodities trader, who then committed suicide and how it affected me as a high school kid working on the Exchange. I gave the treatment to a writer who my father knew and he encouraged me to keep at it. After that I walked into a DC theatrical company, sang a song, learned a dance routine and was cast in a musical. Moved to LA, got my SAG card, left the business after a bad motorcycle accident, went back to corporate America, then drawn back to the arts. It never quite leaves you.
Do you remember your first time at the Movies?
I do not but I remember seeing the last movie together with my father, Glory with Denzel Washington.
If you should change country where would you like to work?
Europe. father was Irish, born and raised in Ireland.
Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…
The Godfather, a powerhouse cast. Somewhere in Time with Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour. Time travel and fate.
What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?
I have never attended either. It has value, but I just do and things happen.
Have you ever hated your ambition?
I feel as an artist you are driven to express yourself. It is not easy getting noticed and the rejection rate is very high. This is not for the weak.
Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people”… was he right?
I would not say “sick”, but definitely passionate and maybe one can get lost in a film or the genre.
Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?
Black and white film, trench coats, rain and popcorn!
Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?
Terence Malick. Sometimes less dialogue is more and the beauty of his cinematography.
About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…
I am driven by success and adding value. Worst I guess would be submitting your work to 50 film festivals and being turned down. At that point there is something wrong with the work.
How important is to have a good Cinematographic Culture?
Huge. This is a world of very low success rate and we should all support one another. This is not easy.
What would you like to improve as a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?
Working more, being diverse in roles. I am an actor first. CHALLENGES.
A big producer give you the chance to direct\to play (in) the remake of one of your favorite black and white Movie (if you have one)… what film do you choose?
The Best Years of Our Lives.
Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?
My fellow artists and people like yourself asking my opinion on things! There must be some perceived value from you to talk to me.
Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The script, the script and the script". Do you agree with him?
Yes. It all starts with that
What’s your most ambitious project for the future?
I have 2 of them. 2 feature screenplays to be produced. Retribution and Secret Messages. Cop drama Retribution - A police officer who accidentally killed his partner in the line of duty crosses paths with a suspect with an even darker past and all demons are confronted. Secret Messages - After a rudderless man gets mugged in DC, he travels back (or does he?) in time to the Civil War, saves lives and finds meaning, empathy, purpose, and love in his present life.
Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy let be more creative?
To a point, but don’t wallow to much in it.
What do you wish to yourself as a Filmmaker\Actor \Writer?
My work to be seen and recognized. To be able to compete with the rest, which I can.
Samantha Casella - Interview
Samantha is defined a visionary director, projected to investigate the dark side who resides in the hearts and minds of her characters. Her style leads to a journey through the unconscious, where the atmospheres recall a pictorial universe full of mystery and darkness. Her director essay, the short film “Juliette” winning 19 awards, including the “Massimo Troisi European Award”. She continued her path by directing some short films including “Interrupted Silence”, “Iris” and “Ágape”. In the documentary sector the most important work are "Mediterraneo", presented at the Venice Biennale & "Via Crucis at the Pantheon” In 2019 she directed "I Am Banksy". In 2020 she directed the short film "To A God Unknown", winner of 237 awards. In 2022 Samantha is the director and main actress of “The Antithesis of Love”. "Santa Guerra" is her debut in the feature film, starring Eugenia Costantini. It premiered on 7 September 2022 in a special event during the 79th Venice International Film Festival
When did you realised you wanted to be a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?
Honestly, I can't tell the exact moment, but I remember the day when the magic of cinema is pushed in my life. I was a little girl and the TV was tuned to a black and white film, "Winter Light" by Ingmar Bergman. I was shocked by the dialogue between a woman (Ingrid Thulin) and a priest (Gunnar Björnstrand). It was a dialogue about God, and about his silence.
Do you remember your first time at the Movies?
My first time at Movie Theater? I presume a Disney cartoon but I don't remember which film… I remember just the smell of popcorn.
If you should change country where would you like to work?
A country between the United States, India and France. I know they are very different from each other, but I love contrasts.
Two films that have marked your life for better or for worse…
It's too hard to say just two titles… I would say the whole filmography of Ingmar Bergman. But if I think about the last 20 years I say “Eyes Wide Shut” by Stanley Kubrick and "The Tree of Life” by Terrence Malick.
What do you think about Acting/ filmmaking schools?
I can say a few words about my personal experience.I attended a school in Florence, the Immagina Cinema School, managed by Giuseppe Ferlito, a talented director. He is a “Maestro”, an inspirer, he given me so much.
Have you ever hated your ambition?
No. My ambition is mixed with my goals. They go hand in hand.
Francois Truffaut used to think that "Film Lovers are sick people”… was
he right?
I believe that we are all sick, whether we love cinema or not! We are complicated creatures, capable of great things, for better or for worse.
Close your eyes…if I say “Cinema” what do you see?
Bergman's women's faces. Malick's nature. the red curtains and herringbone floor by Lynch.
Who’s the Director\Actor\Writer that taught you the most?
The director Ingmar Bergman for sure. Anyway i adore too David Lynch, Terrence Malick and Stanley Kubrick. About actor/actress, I love Marlon Brando and adore Nicole Kidman, over all. Writers I would say Fedor Dostoevsky, William Faulkner and John Steinbeck.
About your job, tell us your biggest dream and your worst nightmare…
The biggest dream is to be satisfied with my path. My biggest nightmare is not being able to convey my emotions.
How important is to have a good Cinematographic Culture?
I think it has value. But the most important thing for a director is to be honest. It doesn't matter the genre, it can be a comedy, a drama or a surreal film, whatever... But it has to be an honest story, that comes from the heart.
What would you like to improve as a Filmmaker\Actor\Writer?
Lots of things. Sometimes I tell myself that I still have to learn everything.
A big producer give you the chance to direct\to play (in) the remake of one of your favorite black and white Movie (if you have one)… what film do you choose?
“Sunset Boulevard” by Billy Wilder.
Film Industry it’s a tough place and sometimes is normal to feel lost
and discouraged… who’s the person that keeps you motivated?
First of all my parents and my private relationship. Also, there are many people, friends or people around the world, who loved Santa Guerra and encourage me to go on.
Alfred Hitchcock said: "To make a good film you need 3 things: The script, the script and the script". Do you agree with him?
Certainly the script is basic. But but I believe it is a combination of ingredients… Script, Atmospheres, Directorial choices, Many balances…
What’s your most ambitious project for the future?
The pre-production of my second film has started and it si a hard project. Very personal, very painful. I hope to survive!
Do you think that sadness or at least melancholy let be more creative?
I do not know. I think it's different for each of us.
I want to believe that creation is always a moment of deeply joy. I like to think that in those moments sadness and melancholy disappear, like a miracle
What do you wish to yourself as a Filmmaker\Actor \Writer?
To stay true to myself.
John Handem Piette - Interview
Brooklyn-based award winning filmmaker, with a passion for sharing compelling and unifying stories for a diverse global audience. Growing up, John developed a love of storytelling—the only constant in his life as home and roots were ever-changing. Born in Stockholm, Sweden, John moved with his family to London, then Paris, eventually arriving in Washington, D.C. and then Austin, where he attended film school at the University of Texas. In 2009, he moved to Los Angeles and began working with A-list talent on award-winning films, music videos, documentaries, trailers, and a web series. With his move to New York in 2018, he served as a Senior Producer and Editor for The Dodo, creating hundreds of animal-centric videos, and now, as a member of the Writers Guild of America East, he has formed his own production company—Assemble Studios—where he develops original narrative and documentary projects, as well as collaborates with inspiring organizations to help tell their stories.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director/screenplayer?
To me, the most important personal ingredient for any writer, actor, director to possess is empathy. To have a personal understanding and unique perspective of the human experience is truly what helps any audience connect to a story in a visceral and emotional way.
First and last cinematographic crush?
My first cinematographic crush would be Harold Rosson who shot The Wizard of Oz, which was a mind blowing cinematic experience as a young boy. Today i’d say my crush is Roger Deakins, in a class of his own at this point- the way he manipulates natural light and comes up with creative and practical solutions for lighting a set, it would be a dream to pick his brain or shadow him on a set.
How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?
I started acting in plays and writing my own stories around the same age, as a 9 year old kid in elementary school and it would end up being a lifelong love and passion. I decided I wanted to be a director after I took my first film class as a 17 year old junior in high school, and i’ve been shooting films ever since.
For you a Film is…
A film, to me, is a window into the heart and soul of a fellow human being, capturing and contextualizing the wonder of life for an audience.
What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?
When I’m creating, whether it’s writing, directing or editing...I feel like I’m getting to know someone who’ll be a part of the rest of my life…for better or worse. When things are really clicking and it’s at its best, it feels something like falling in love.
You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna whatch it?
I’ve always wanted to go to the movies with Christopher Nolan to specifically watch The Matrix…and hopefully at least 5 hours of geek-out time afterwards.
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?
It has layers of meaning, I think. On the one hand, anything is achievable with the right resolve and fortitude, but that doesn’t mean everything will happen the way you want it to, but it could.
Can you live just of your passion?
No, I think life generally needs a healthy balance of passion and practicality, but i think they can ebb and flow with certain moments in time being more dominated by one than the other. But life cannot be wholly lived on passion alone. One can live life solely for the pursuit of ones passions, but that comes at great cost and sacrifice.
What's more important talent or luck?
Luck is more important if we’re just talking about career success, because there are many more untalented people who are hard workers who just so happen to know the right people or fall into an amazing opportunity. So if you’re talented, you only need patience and perseverance, because those lucky moments can happen to anyone if they find a way to meet the right people and occupy the right spaces.
You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie…
The Matrix.
Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?
As an actor I did this constantly which is why I decided to focus on writing and directing…to steer the ship from the get go.
What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?
That my voice and work are needed. I’ve gotten that compliment several times over the years and it always fills me with a sense of purpose in what I do and what i want to create for the world.
Are you satisfied about your career?
No. If I was satisfied I’d be closer to the end than the beginning, and as far as I’m concerned...I’m just getting started.
Do you have a good luck charm?
My dog, Bean. He’s featured pretty prominently throughout my documentary film, Lightning in a Bottle: A Festival Story, and now I think he needs to be in everything I make from here on out.
Which is the worst moment on set ?
When you have to wrap on a day when you know you haven’t come close to hitting your shot-list and have to rethink the rest of your film’s production schedule.
How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?
When I was wrapping up work on LIB: A Festival Story it was incredibly emotional because the film is a true reflection of some very important friendships in my life. When a project comes to an end it feels a bit like graduation day, for me. Euphoric because you’ve accomplished something big, but bittersweet because you’re saying goodbye to friends and chosen family that you’ve spent intensely personal time creating something with. Those bonds last for life.
Have you ever lied to get a part/job?
Nope.
If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to…
My Mom and Dad, who gave me the courage and support to believe I could achieve anything.
Gaston Boulanger - Interview
Gaston studied Medical Biology and Medicine in Utrecht. During his studies he played in several bands (singer harmonica). He developed a love for music, festivals, art, photo and film. In 2004 he moved to Australia, Central Queensland, to work as a GP and participated in many community projects. In 2017 he founded Under The Trees Music and Arts Festival. For the festival he initiated the Filmmaker Master Class. During the class he met, fellow course followers Elisa Belando and Luiz Alvarez and they decided to make a movie. Elisa and Luis acted for their first time ever. It took 2 years to create, film and edit his first movie. Gaston has been a GP for 20 years. He still plays in bands, paints and has now a new hobby: making movies!
Tell me something about The Moviemaker master class you have organised...
The Moviemaker master class is a part of Under The Trees Music and Arts Festival. I organised the masterclass especially for teenagers. They are glued to their mobile phone, and I believed that teaching them how to make a movie would bring some creativity in their lives and have them use their phones as a creative tool instead of consumers device. The inspiration was to make a film to inspire teenagers to also make a movie. To show that you can make a film with a mobile phone and a PC at no costs. During the class I was shocked by the enormous amount of work that goes into making a movie. Fortunatley I met Elisa and Luis who were very enthusiastic and also wanted to make a movie. Straight away they became my Muse.
Who's your biggest fan?
My children!
What brings you inspiration the most?
As a songwriter, painter and now, moviemaker, I have always been lucky that inspiration hits me in the face. The trick is when inspiration comes to recognise it, and then cherish it, and start creating a work of art. It does not matter if it takes years to complete. If it is a good idea, it will stay a good idea.
What can you say about your movie "The Silver Bullet"?
The idea of the Silver Bullet came when I examined a CT scan of a patient. I wont say too much, no spoiler alerts. Once the idea was born, I drafted the script and story board and with the knowledge from the course we started filming and later editing. My good friend and Aria award winner Tony King helped with the score. The Silver Bullets is a movie with many layers. I hope it will start a dialogue about women power, domestic violence, alcoholism and gambling.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
...no
What's the movie that taught you the most?
I have seen my live many movies and I guess from very movie, good or bad you learn something. The Movie Makers Master Class tought me to look at films from a different perspective.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
Every day, I have that desire.
On set what excites you the most?
Beauty
And what scares you the most ?
Beauty!
What's your next project?
A Film called: The Postman
An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....
Carbon, Hydrogen, Oxygen and a few other elements.
For you Cinema is....
a form of art.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
Yes, they do. I made a series of Nursing Home patients Portaits in Black and White. The higher contrast shows the beauty of the elderly.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
No
Do you think you're gonna win it?
No
Norman Colombo - Interview
Norman Colombo born in 2000 and raised in monza with a passion for videos and storytelling through images. With his first and award-winning short "Tutti ne hanno paura", made to graduate from Istituto Cinematografico Michelangelo Antonioni in Busto Arsizio, he is ready to embark on a career as a filmmaker and director.
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
I'd say comedy as it is harder to achieve.
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
I think they both imitate each other: we talk about art in life and life in art.
Which is the best Moment on set?
The very first hours are my favourites, there's a mixture of emotions: fear, happiness, curiosity, agitation. They all vanish when the actual shooting begins and it's hard to get those emotions again.
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
It happened.
How can you stay focused on your goal?
By reminding myself where I want to be in ten years.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
A few times after very stressful events...
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
Tough question, definetly not a curse... It may be a blessing but it depends by the talent itself.
What would you like to improve about yourself as an director?
I'd like to be a more stubborn director and more confident about my skills.
What's the worst critic you have received?
"I don't think you have very clear ideas" said by someone who just wanted to decrease my value.
If you weren't an director what would you like to be?
As my second greatest passion is history I'd say an historian.
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
Purple, right between red -the colour of passion, rage, violence- and blu -the colour of tranquility, sadness, meditation-.
A day without a movie is...
...a boring day.
If someone offered you to direct a movie that you despice but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?
Absolutely yes, not for greed but for a chance to improve, meet new people and later direct something I may like!
What's your greatest ambition?
Go to a cinema, watch a film, read "Directed by Norman Colombo" in the credits and leave.
What's your biggest fear?
Lose myself.
Does music helps you to direct?
More or less, I use music in break times to "recharge" myself.
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?
"A day without a smile is a lost day".
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
I don't have one (yet)! I'd probably just thank everyone, my family, my friends, my colleagues, and... why not... even the ones that hindered me.
Diego Zamalloa - Interview
I got into art and making art as an artist. I liked drawing and painting mostly. I went Norwalk Community College where I took art classes. I dropped out of school to study yoga and meditation on my own. I studied that for about 10 years. I wrote some stories, and then I wrote three screenplays. Automate was my first screenplay. I went back to school in Fall 2020, feeling that I had studied enough meditation and yoga and I should be back in the world and make a living. I went to study graphic design because I felt I could make art and have fun that way. With a group of students we produced the short film Automate. It was a fun endeavor. We were lucky it all came together the way it did, with everyone’s busy schedules. I always liked to write and it helped me reflect on things in my life, and understand parts of myself. The screenplay came about as my love to write I felt like I had a message to send out to the world.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a screenplayer?
Thoughtfulness I think, if you can think about your film and think about it constantly consistently you can find ways to make a project work. If you dedicate yourself thoughtfully you can improve the work and it will get better.
First and last cinematographic crush?
The 1968 film Fando and Lis was interesting to me. The cinematography was simple but the images and ideas were provocative. Donnie Darko was an inspiring film I took a lot of ideas from in my life and in making my movie. My film could be like a sister movie to Donnie Darko, with similar themes.
How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?
In the first year of college we were having fun with my friends and we decided we should make a movie. So we got to start thinking of ideas and making the artwork for inspiration. 10 years after that, after dropping out, I decided to finish the movie we had started to plan years before.
What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?
In acting I can feel the story and where it is going and if I made my mark clearly. When I write I can feel ideas start to become ordered and I can understand more about my thoughts and how it relates to the story I am writing.
You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you
love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna watch it?
I would go with Guillermo del Toro and we would watch a M. Night Shyamalan movie.
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think
about it?
I believe that, if you want something really want something you can make it work. If you can’t it is not really what you want and need to think about it more, then you find something that is just right for you.
Can you live just of your passion?
Yes, but it has to be an intelligent passion, passion can be wild and untamed at that point it is bound to get out of hand. If you are intelligent about what you are doing and inspired then you can understand how to make the most of your passion without getting out of control.
What's more important talent or luck?
Talent is more important. The more you work the more you are able to create opportunity. The problem of luck is that you think it was outside you, but really you have it good so you get lucky, but it was really you being good.
You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...
Lord of the Rings Fellowship of the Ring, fantasy sounds like a good escape.
Have you ever accepted a script to write even if you didn't like the project?
I had the idea to write about a topic that was hard for me, but I stuck with it and was able to produce the screenplay. This was my own inclination though.
What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?
Your work is helping the film industry.
Are you satisfied about your career?
I am, I am studying graphic design to fall back on in case I need a normal job.
Do you have a good luck charm?
For awhile I was using a meditation crystal I would carry around. It got lost on a plane.
Which is the worst moment on set ?
When we are getting to the end of our filming time, and you still have some scenes to finish at the set.
How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?
It feels like we just did some important work.
Have you ever lied to get a part/job?
No.
If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to…
You made it, you did something great and it shows. Now what are you going to do in the future?
Jason Hammond - Interview
Jason Hammond is a musician, sculptor and filmmaker originally from Mississauga Ontario Canada. Starting early in life, he was obsessed with everything in the filmmaking world. This ultimately led to a vast knowledge of filmmaking, its pitfalls and successes and was later (embarrassingly) accepted into film school in Ontario in 2013. He developed his own unique style with the artform, as well as realizing the restrictive, self referential and tired world of the film industry. He later left film school after the first year because of how terrible and close minded it was. Today, he funds, organizes and executes his own film projects, and sacrifices a piece of himself in order to give something original to the art form that needs it so badly.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director/screenplayer?
To be genuine.
First and last cinematographic crush?
Emmanuel Lubeski.
How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?
I was probably about 10.
For you a Film is...
A film is a reflection of life and cinema is the most expansive art form ever created. The most surreal thing is reality, and its also the thing all fantasy depends on. What a film is not, is a reflection of other films, even if every one thinks (without truly thinking about it) that it is. Reality is so much more interesting, devastating, boring, exciting, horrific, funny and beautiful than anything anybody sitting at a desk could contrive. Film is also, however, not purely “true” or “factual”. It has to contain some guiding hand or some contrived element, although, it should be a boundary created to invoke something genuine, rather than contriving each breath a character takes or each syllable a character speaks to the letter. The magic of all art forms, (but mainly cinema) is the idea of containing or capturing intangible things through tangible means. I used to dream about creating the ultimate film and allowing it to fully consume and destroy me, giving back everything to the art form I respect and fear the most. I hope one day I can be so lucky as to allow it to take me over until I am completely obliterated !
What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?
Most art that I create, has nothing to do with how I feel about the making of it. Of course I can feel a range of things (most of the time discontentment) during the process, but I do NOT see art as a self serving activity thats there for me to use. It’s actually the exact opposite, the art form itself is more there to use me. Im a conduit rather than a conductor, even if some conducting must happen. Half of the time I dont even necessarily want to make things, Im compelled to, because I have never felt anything otherwise. Its at the same time, not at all a chore, as I am of course excited when I get a solid idea, and feel truly alive when achieving my potential. However, I only get very brief moments of joy or happiness with the end results. Those small moments of joy and satisfaction are indescribably fulfilling and are one of the main things I live for, even if only lasting a few minutes.
You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna whatch it?
I would go to the theatre with whats left of Agnes Varda’s carcass and watch Orozco the embalmer.
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?
Live laugh love!
Can you live just of your passion?
Passion is an essential part of making anything remotely worthwhile but you still gotta get fucked over by taxes every year and replace your brake pads. I think some aggravation is essential.
What's more important talent or luck?
Inherent skill invokes luck.
You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...
I'd bring any Eli Roth film and use it to keep the fire going.
Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?
The only plastic i’m throwing into the ocean is Eli Roth movies.
What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?
I guess winning awards for best short film ect., I always feel others dont care about or understand any of my filmmaking. My own family doesnt really get or like it and never has, so the idea of strangers not only screening but awarding my stuff is pretty amazing to me. WHAT THE HELL IS EVEN THAT?!
Are you satisfied about your career?
I dont think i’ll ever actually be wholly satisfied with anything and I think thats good at some level. Its unnatural to be satisfied with things you make unless youre another boring idiot. To be unsatisfied leaves room for improvement and something to strive for, although one should never ever strive to be unsatisfied in and of itself. I dream about making my feature film (which I have been writing/working on on and off for about 13 years) putting everything I have into it, and then never bothering to make another film again. I have always viewed that as a sort of finish line in my life, everything else feeling unfulfilled until I make it and everything after it feeling a little less important. I used to dream about making this film and then dying shortly after, whereas now I feel a bit more stable and at ease with life. I do feel It will not satisfy me ultimately and it will never be as good as it is in my heart and brain, so that scares me. Satisfaction is for the dead.
Do you have a good luck charm?
My Cinco midi organizer.
Which is the worst moment on set ?
When filming one of the last scenes (where Ivan and Kayla fight with each other in that back street) there was some homeless people who had lit a large fire in the middle of the road beside their tents. There was a big homeless motherfucker that started following my production assistant back to the van when he went to grab some equipment by himself. I followed close behind him and held my steadicam like an axe. I will not say whether I did or did not smash him over the head with it (for legal reasons) but lets just say, he made an attempt to hijack our equipment. Let’s also just say, (for legal reasons) that its not shocking the average person can tie their own shoes.
How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?
I feel excited to finally be back in my cave to start putting things together.
Have you ever lied to get a part/job?
Id forge any document or any permit to get what the film requires.
If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to…
I will never win an oscar and anyone that is motivated by that goal is a complete idiot.
Bonne Jones - Interview
Bonne Jones is a proud Nganitjidi-Banggarla woman of the Eyre in South Australia. Taught traditional Aboriginal medicine by her paternal grandmother and raised by her business-minded British family, these influences blended with her favourite childhood sitcoms and cartoon shows. By age 12 she wanted to write her own films and animation features. After studying medicine and psychology and working in the health industry for many years, she is now in a position to fulfil her true ambition. Although unique, her comedies have been described as comparable to Seinfeld and The Simpsons. Her adult comedy Folie `a Cinq builds to raise awareness about mental illness and hopefully relieve those who experience emotional anguish.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director/screenplayer?
One needs to have a great handle on life experiences otherwise what have you got to say, and to whom is it going to relate?
First and last cinematographic crush?
Definitely Gordon Willis for his work on The Godfather. I was absorbed by his use of light and shadow which affected me as an audience because it was subtly blended with the action. Wally Pfister's work on Inception left me spellbound. To pull that film off seamlessly was largely thanks to Pfister's brilliance.
How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?
I was 12.
For you a Film is...
A great story with great characters. It doesn't need to have spectacular action like Marvel, but it does need a moving score to help invest my emotions, some peppered humour to make me believe the characters are real, but ultimately it needs to make me think.
What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?
My process begins with the theme and the characters who will drive the project. I tend to exercise and walk for hours while I think; this can take from days to months. Once I begin writing the characters are already alive in my head. Writing is my favourite part of a project but I still love seeing them brought to life.
You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you
love. What kind of movie do you choose and with whom are you gonna watch it?
Whatever the film, I would be choosing David Lynch to join me. Perhaps I would suggest my favourite comedy, Gone with the Wind. It was incredibly well made and acted for its time and still stands up today. I would be interested to hear his opinion on all aspects of the film. Plus, it means I would get to sit with him for nearly 3-hours.
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think
about it?
I agree in the context that nothing is an inconceivable concept, therefore, it is impossible. If it is meant as a banal affirmation, then I think it is an absurd statement.
Can you live just off of your passion?
I worked and studied for decades before being in a financial and intellectual position to work as a full-time writer and animator. My answer: pfft.
What's more important, talent or luck?
Hmmm, personally, I believe that talent is more important based on logic and a discerning taste in art. However, based on the huge amount of content in cinema and streaming services, talent doesn't seem to be a factor. Emoji
You must go to a desert island but you can take with you just one movie...
Hmmm, I guess Robinson Crusoe. It's not a favourite movie, at all, but it might provide information to help me survive. -As long as I have electricity and devices to play it. Emoji
Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even
if you didn't like the project?
Fortunately, no. I am particular about the people with whom I work and the projects that I embrace.
What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?
A producer of some 50 years in the film industry watched Folie `a Cinq. He said: "It is extremely rare and difficult to produce low-level animations such as yours and make it funny. Congratulations, you have succeeded".
Are you satisfied about your career?
I absolutely love my work. It has taken many years of studying mental health -the theory of psychology and its practitioners. I am thrilled to finally be in a position to create projects that raise public awareness of the pros and cons of the field. Folie `a Cinq is a multi-layered show. Using comedy as its vehicle, it reflects the self-absorption of typical practitioners while discussing common (so-called) mental disorders and the dangers of the current therapy victim era. This is to promote the health benefits of laughter (the chemical release) combined with a new perspective (to change the brain's wiring) and learn to minimise believed trauma to overcome dysfunctional and painful symptoms of severe mental illness.
Do you have a good luck charm?
No, but I certainly have a muse behind my best writing.
Which is the worst moment on set?
It becomes frustrating when I begin a scene or action sequence and within the first hour realise that I am making a mistake. My brain is telling me to scrap the work and start all over again, but, because I have invested that first hour, I keep trying to fix it. After many hours resulting in trash work, I listen to my brain, start again, and get it done within the hour.
How do you feel when a job you've been part of is ending?
There is a sense of relief once a project is finished. However, there is also a sense of dissatisfaction, but perfection is a delusion that will only chew up time and nothing will be completed. I live with the attitude that I will get it right next time.
Have you ever lied to get a part/job?
No.
If you should win an Oscar your first thought would go to…
I would thank Harrison Sutcliffe and Gary Jacobs for all of their help, support and laughs: Any award is as much theirs as mine.
Spencer Simmons - Interview
Spencer Simmons is an award-winning filmmaker based in Clinton, Tennessee. He has been making films since he was ten years old and has made two feature films, "He's Coming," and "The Pale Ghost." "He's Coming," premiered at a local theater in Clinton called the Ritz Theater, a historical landmark theatre in Clinton. "The Pale Ghost," has been premiered at three film festivals in London, UK and in the United States.
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
I believe Art imitates Life.
Which is the best Moment on set?
When Mason Rich licked the bloody table in “MONSTERS,” every person behind the camera collectively got freaked out!
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
All the time, I was told from age 13 up that making films will never pay off. People in the hallways at school, in my personal life, all have told me some version of “you’ll never make it.”
How can you stay focused on your goal?
By continuously working on something, even if it working on it is just writing an idea down, that is enough to keep the dream alive.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
Never had a breakdown but I have been burnt out because of the stresses of going to college, making a feature film, and working full time.
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
I have always said that it is a curse, but it is a responsibility to have something special. To use that gift, whatever it may be, to make this experience called “life,” better for all of us.
What would you like to improve about yourself as an
actor/director/screenplayer?
I would like to improve on the budgets, haha! I always want to keep ironing out my direction with actors and actresses, explaining what I want in a way that translates to what they can utilize to improve their performances.
What's the worst critic you have received?
My biggest critic will always be myself, but I’ve had people critique my dialogue in classes.
What's more important talent or luck?
I believe talent is more important, you can have all the luck in the world, but if you don’t have talent that you honed and have an undying passion for something, luck will only get you in the door. Talent keeps you there.
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
Yellowish Brown.
A day without a movie is...
A day without a film is a day not worth living.
If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despice
but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?
Of course, I would be happy just to get a job in the realm of Filmmaking!
What's your greatest ambition?
As a horror fan, my biggest ambition is to make a Halloween film, with no ties to the original film or any of its sequels. Also for Wes Craven fans, I would love to make a new Nightmare on Elm Street.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director/screenplayer?
I believe every good director has to have a little bit of madness and obsession inside of them to keep making better and better films. Another good ingredient is to be fun to work with, people love coworkers who make their days better and it gets everyone in a good mood to work.
Does music helps you to play/direct, write?
Absolutely! I listen to the original “Halloween” theme song on the commute to and from shooting days, and I listen to old John Carpenter scores from movies like “Christine,” whenever I am editing!
How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?
11 years old is when I decided I wanted to make movies, around age 15 when I decided I wanted to be a director/writer.
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
My real speech would never touch what I am about to write, but if I were to win an Oscar for a Horror film it would be:
Ever since I was a boy, I have chased the dream of working in Hollywood with all of you fine people. I have had my go of it in life, I have had moments of doubt and hardships that brought me to my knees, but one thing that got me here in front of all of you is faith. The faith that someday that people would see a film of mine, and just understand me, and just get it, because for the longest time people didn’t. They didn’t understand me or what made me tick. I am grateful that somewhere along the way, someone saw what I made and decided to love it and embrace me through my film, through my work. To my family who has been behind me every step of the way, I can now say, that little boy back in Jellico TN, accomplished what he set out to do, to make films for the entire world to enjoy and hopefully made it a better place through film.
Jordan Walker-Pearlman - Interview
Jordan began making films for Nickelodeon Network as a teenager, then returned to filmmaking in the late 1990’s with short films for French Television and the Snowboarding Documentary Snow Taxi. In 2000 Jordan was ranked by the NAACP as one of American Film’s Groundbreaking Directors of the past 25 years for his first full length feature as Director-Writer-Producer The Visit and he was nominated for multiple Independent Spirit Awards. Jordan’s follow up, Constellation - starred Zoe Saldana, Gabrielle Union, Billy Dee Williams, and Hill Harper - was released worldwide in 2007 and received over 24 award nominations including winning the Urbanworld Festival Audience prize. Jordan is a producer on Chris Smith’s documentary on Gene Wilder. Recently he completed his new feature film as Writer/Director, The Requiem Boogie, in which he also returns to acting. The film is a depiction of his sense of mourning and his complicated relationship with cinema, show business.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director/screenwriter?
“Good”, I don’t know the best answer because good is so subjective. But to be able to sustain doing it with all the elements that get thrown at you or kept from you (and they vary between the three things you are asking about), I’d say: Passion for creating, patience with others and yourself in the artistic process, urgency added to mix with the patience, and the ability to allow some crazy romantic end of the world senses to invade your work without making other people suffer from it. Having those qualities I think will help sustain you in a career and understand how many of the outside forces, perilous and consequential as they are, are phantoms compared to your own dedication and behavior.
First and last cinematographic crush?
I may not understand the question? Do you mean when I fell for someone on screen? I saw Jayne Kennedy in a movie called “Body and Soul” when I was about 11, that’s probably the most literal answer. I also was mad for Catherine Deneuve when I saw Truffaut’s “The Last Metro.” A couple years after its release they were doing a special screening of it at I believe the Paris Theatre in Manhattan. I ditched school early and went to the reception, snuck in I should say....I was sitting down and saw Catherine Deneuve up close (she was there) and she was wearing a pair of Red shoes and I said out loud “Red Shoes.” She turned around knowing I was talking about her and I was embarrassed and said “One of my favorite movies,” to pretend I was talking about the movie “The Red Shoes” which was is and always has been a favorite. She saw right through me, I was about 16 at the time, and she was bored and we disappeared outside at a bar for thirty minutes and she bought me a glass of wine. It was very chaste but magical. I didn’t have to sneak back in to the reception after that. I think that was my last cinematographic crush, because soon I was obsessed with creating images on screen other people would crush on. If you mean Director/film maker crushes, that’s a another thing...
How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenwriter?
I was about five or six years old when I knew I wanted to be involved in movies in some way. That was mostly because of Gene (Wilder) my Uncle and co- parent, and my time with him—the movie part-the introduction to films. He had just done “Young Frankenstein” and “Blazing Saddles” (and earlier “Willy Wonka”). He was a popular actor, but he cared a great deal for good films and film making. So he opened up that world to me...I suppose if he had been a novelist or painter...that might have been my path. But instead film became my first language. The reason I wanted to enter the world of imagination was because I didn’t feel I belonged in any world around me, so it was appealing to learn a way to make your own. Though I performed a bit, I did not want to become an actor- Funny story, I was walking with my Grandmother when I was 9 and must have misbehaved (again) in some way at school, and she said “What are you going to do Jordan if you don’t start acting right?” And I said “I’ll become a Director.”
For you a Film is...
A film is as big as its soul. Don’t judge a movie “big” or “small” by its budget. That is irrelevant. A movie is big if its dreams, desires, and quest for humanity are big, a movie is small if it relies solely on set pieces and hand me down craft. A movie is a movie after its done, and the budget no longer exists, just the work. So a film is the urgency of life at 24 frames a second (or however you want to measure the science of creating it in this digital age).
What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?
Directing and Writing sort of meld for me, internally, meaning when I’m writing I’m thinking of Directing notes and when I am directing I usually write new scenes as I go along filming—I try to develop some of these scenes with the actors so they don’t feel overwhelmed about remembering dialogue. I’d say, as best as I can express it, I feel in my natural state. Acting is different, because I don’t consider that I deserve to be called an actor. I know I played the lead in The Requiem Boogie and I wrote it with that intention and I don’t (I think) regret it. But playing that part doesn’t make me a actor, per se. It was an unusual circumstance and I tried to talk myself out of it, but Mel Brooks insisted I not chicken out and then Gabrielle Union did the same, and that’s a pretty persuasive duo to come at you—and I felt natural playing the role, which again is different from thinking I’m really an actor.
You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenwriter that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna watch it?
Well, I’d like to have Gene back for a day and go watch “Young Frankenstein” again together. If the laws of the universe don’t allow that then equally I’d be very happy to have a date night with my wife Elizabeth, who is a screenwriter, and I would let her pick the movie. At home I have screened for her a lot of Renoir, Ozu, etc
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?
In the context of life I would say it depends on the circumstances of your environment, theoretically true but if some human beings put barriers around the opportunity available to other human beings, than its that much harder to reach the impossible. In the context of Art than I would agree 100% with Ms. Hepburn. I would also refer to Strindberg “Anything is possible and probable, time and space do not exist, the imagination spins, weaving new patterns.”
Can you live just of your passion?
No, but I couldn’t live without it.
What's more important talent or luck?
One really isn’t going to work without the other. I think passion for your art is most important, because it gives you the wisdom to look beyond bad luck and not be made arrogant by good luck. The talent is what survives if it gets a chance to breathe. Luck doesn’t survive as long as talent or passion.
You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...
Really just one? If I could have an editing suite on the island I would bring one of my own movies, because then I would never stop changing and playing and exploring or stop editing, and no one could make me because I’d have the excuse of being on the Island. However, if there’s no editing sweet I think either Nagisa Oshima’s “Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence” or Renoir’s “Grande Illusion.” That’s because its an island and I assume I’m without my wife on it-which means I would want to watch masterpieces about men surviving without women because I’d really miss my wife. Or maybe I’d bring a ten hour movie like Stroheim’s ‘Greed” or Fassbinder’s “Berlin Alexanderplatz,” because then I could which a little every day for a month. I am probably taking the island part of the question too literally....”Ninotchka”—Lubitsch would definitely be good if your stranded on an island (sorry again, you didn’t say anything about being stranded on the island.
Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?
No. I have never done that. I’ve turned down most of the work I’ve been offered, for better or worse. It hasn’t always been because I didn’t like the project, sometimes I did and I didn’t want to ruin it for the people backing it because I didn’t feel I’d be particularly good. I don’t say I’d never do something out of my own universe-but it would have to be something I’d be convinced could be part of my soul and that the people backing it would feel I brought something to it worthwhile.
What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?
This was relayed to me, I wasn’t there for it: My closest friend, the actor hill Harper who played the lead in my film “The Visit,” was on the subway in New York and a young man went up to him and told him he had gotten out of prison and the relationship with his Father was so bad that he didn’t expect to see him, but his Dad picked him up and told him the reason was he had seen a movie called “The Visit,” and he understood better the plight of his son. Years later a woman told me directly that after seeing my film “Constellation,” she forgave her father for a lot of “crazy things” and reunited with him. When I was fund raising for the first Presidential campaign campaign of then Senator Barack Obama, he screened “Constellation” one night when he was exhausted after a long stop in California. He told a couple months later “it just made me want to hug my daughters, and spend more time with them.” The biggest compliments aren’t about craft but compassion, having your work touch another human being. That’s what dreams are made of and dream makers made for.
Are you satisfied about your career?
No. I am not, nor do I think necessarily I should be. But not being satisfied is different from not being grateful, which I am. I’ve been privileged to only make the movies I want, to find the backing when I’ve needed to make them, and to put some of what I want on screen. At the same time I think my work is still lousy in many moments and should be better. I’m blessed when there have been moments in my work or career where I reach people, but the whole of it—not yet; I need to get closer, and closer, and closer, to what I want to say and how I want to say it. I have regrets, but I wouldn’t (as of yet) want to switch places with anyone else career wise.
Do you have a good luck charm?
Yes, Faith
Which is the worst moment on set?
Sometimes the morning when everyone feels rushed or stressed, which is why as a general rule I like to only be setting up shots and framing and working with actors in preparation in the morning, and then break, and then come back and film for the second half of the day. Sometimes the worst moment is when you feel close to getting what you want and you know your just outside its grasp...its also bad if there is any yelling, I don’t have any yelling on my sets as a director unless its out of joy, but I have been a Producer on some films where bad behavior took place and I had to step in, and its awful, unartistic, and soulless and the process of making cinema should be beautiful, artistic, and soulful.
How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?
Like I’ve just given birth after months of love and labor and they’ve taken my baby away because they are unsure I’ll be a fit parent...and I long to be with my child again....but then I host a little dinner or gathering for the people that were wonderful and crazy enough to join my on this journey within this little world of ours, and soon I’m in the editing room reunited with my child again trying to get it ready for the big world.
Have you ever lied to get a part/job?
Only to myself.
If you should win an Oscar your first thought would go to...
Is this a trick question because you are aware that I was invited to join the Academy years ago and declined :)? That is true, for specific reasons. But I wouldn’t decline an Oscar if I were to win one and a couple of my films have been part of nominating campaigns by their distributors. At the same time I don’t think Oscars are the single determinant factor of what’s good or meaningful or the “best,” and so many worthy movies have been denied entry into that system because of exclusion and systematic issues. But to answer your question more specifically I would hope my first thought would go to a polite and proper expression of thanks to whichever group or group of people say they liked something about my work.
Last and future projects?
I've founded my new production company HarlemHollywood in 2021; I'm in post production on the documentary "The Jazz Griots" featuring Ron Carter and Wallace Roney, and my next feature shoots in France entitled “Lilly Herman Leaves America.”
Cynthia Fridsma - Interview
Cynthia Fridsma is an author specializing in supernatural thrillers. She is inspired by her mother's stories and by authors such as Stephen King, Clive Barker, Dean Koontz, and Philip K. Dick. She began writing in 2014 after a handicap that affected her right hand, wrist and fingers. She has published several novels, including Pandemic: Chaos is Bleeding, which was adapted into a film. The animated film Pandemic: Chaos is Bleeding was nominated for the Swedish International Film Festival in 2023.
When did you decide you wanted to be an actor/director/ screenplayer?
I am a writer and I like to put my thoughts on paper. But I also like to visualize my ideas. Since I enjoy working with specialized 3D software, I can make this happen. By gaining a lot of experience, I was able to make my first movie: Pandemic : Chaos is Bleeding, based on my book of the same name. That was last year. So to come back to your question, seven months ago I decided to start this movie project, that's when I decided to become a director to make my movie come true.
How did your family react?
My husband supported me from the beginning and I love him for that. Well, not only that, but you know what I mean, right? It's great to have a supportive husband and when I told my family about my movie project they were very enthusiastic.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
Not really. I don't have a role model, although I admire strong women. My main character, Sybil Crewes, is partly based on the fictional character Alice from the Resident Evil movies, played by actress Milla Jovovich. You could say that her character is a role model. The same goes for the fictional character Chloe O'Brian from the action-packed TV show 24, played by actress Mary Lynn Rajskub. Vannessa Dogscape is a character based on Chloe O'Brian, to name a few. But like I said, I don't have a muse or a role model, except for the ones mentioned here.
Who's your biggest fan?
That'd be my husband, Gerard. He's very supportive of everything I do, and I love him for that.
What brings you inspiration the most?
For me, the news is a good starting point. When I read something that interests me, I like to dig deeper to gather more information about the topic that I can use as a backdrop for my story, or even as the main event. Like the terror that happened in 2013 during the Boston Marathon bombing on April 15. That was my inspiration to write my book The Black Widow, which is about terrorism and vampires. And for my movie project Pandemic: Chaos is Bleeding, it was the COVID-19 pandemic, the attack on the Capitol that happened on January 6, 2021. I used this horrible event as the background for my book and later for my movie Pandemic: Chaos is Bleeding.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
I would love to work with Kiefer Sutherland as Jack Hunter, head of the ATU (Anti-Terrorism Unit) in Boston, and Milla Jovovich as Sybil Crewes.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
A book is a different experience than a movie, so it's hard to compare the two. But I think Clive Barker's Hell Raiser and the original Candyman movie from 1992 were great to watch. Also The Mist, based on a short story by Stephen King, was a great experience. But I like the movies and the books equally. A movie is a visual journey of images and sounds, while a book is words and can be very intense. You have to use your imagination to visualize the story.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
This is a hard question to answer. I have seen so many movies that I have lost count. But you asked about the movie that affected me the most, and I can tell you that it wasn't a movie. It was the 1978 TV miniseries Holocaust, starring Meryl Streep and James Woods. It's the saga of a Jewish family's struggle to survive the horrors of Nazi Germany's systematic marginalization and extermination of their community. And also the 1977 miniseries, Roots, about Kunta Kinte's enslavement to the liberation of his descendants. I was ten years old when I saw the series on television and I was shocked at the time, not understanding why people would kill or enslave other people because of their race, religion and color. What I learned from those two shows is that racism is evil and that we're all born equal. Your color, race, religion (or in my case, lack of religion), and sexual orientation should never be a reason to hate, discriminate, harass, and kill. It's also the reason why I start writing stories in the hope that people will learn to appreciate each other instead of hating.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
I think everyone has that feeling from time to time, when something you have in your head doesn't work out in practice, you just want to give up. But quitting is never an option for me. Sure, I take a break and take a deep breath and call it a day if I don't succeed at first. But the next day I will do my best to make it happen.
On set what excites you the most?
Since I work with 3D models and 3D software to bring my ideas to life, my stage is my PC. It's great to put 3D models in motion. Hearing the characters speak and act while I set up the stage to make it happen. It's like magic and a dream come true. Almost literally.
And what scares you the most?
A computer crash. Sure, I have backups, but reinstalling all the software and recreating all the footage takes a lot of time. It took me seven months to create and edit my first movie, Pandemic : Chaos is Bleeding. It would be a nightmare if I had to do it all over again because of a malfunction. Luckily that didn't happen. As they say in showbiz: break a leg, you might get lucky. I didn't break a leg, my computer didn't malfunction, and I finished my first movie project.
What's your next project?
My second movie will be a sequel to the first, but with a lot more drama and scary moments. Sybil has to put an end to a new threat - a terrorist organization of hardline voting refuseniks who want to overthrow the current government with a deadly variant of COVID-19 that turns people into skinned zombies.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
Jimi Hendrix. I always wanted to play guitar in front of an audience. I also admire Steven Spielberg, who doesn't? But wait, I mentioned two. Sorry about that.
An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....
Passion. That's the word I want to add to your sentence.
For you Cinema is....
The best place to see dreams and stories come true. Where you can be safe and enjoy a great movie.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
I really don't like watching black and white movies. It's old school. Vivid colors and Dolby Digital Surround make a movie enjoyable. Not black and white and mono sound. Although I do enjoy watching old movies like Alfred Hitchcock's 39 Steps or Gaslight starring Ingrid Bergman.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
To be honest, it is fun and exciting to participate in a film festival. Especially when your film is selected to be seen by a jury. Then the adrenaline rush when you find out you've won something, a semi-finalist, a finalist, an honorable mention, a nomination or an award. I never imagined that my film would win an award or be nominated at the Swedish International Film Festival. It would be a great honor to win an Oscar, or to win at Cannes, or to win at the Florence Film Awards. Only time will tell.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
To be honest, I don't expect to win an Oscar for my movie. But it's fun and exciting to be a contender.
John Dutton - Interview
John Dutton hit the lottery, unfortunately it was the bad lottery. He has not only multiple sclerosis but also an aggressive form of Parkinson’s disease, which manifests itself with debilitating tremors. He tried every drug regimen, every holistic approach there was. Nothing worked. He decided to take a risk and turned to a novel and cutting edge brain surgery using Focused Ultrasounds as opposed to scalpels. The results are nothing short of a miracle.
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
That would be like trying to name your favorite child. Haha. And I am a comedy writer. Short answer is I like them both.
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
In my case art imitated in life. We made art from a life moment that I had.
Which is the best Moment on set?
When you nail a shot and know that you don't have to do another take. Such a good feeling!
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
No, and I am allergic to negativity anyways.
How can you stay focused on your goal?
Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
No but my car has.
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
It's a total blessing. What's the most important thing is what you do with that Talent.
What would you like to improve about yourself as an
actor/director/screenplayer?
Learn all the tricks of the editing process.
What's the worst critic you have received?
Don't quit your day job. Haha.
If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?
For some reason I would like to be a limo driver. It seems like a cool job, and would be a great documentary based on some of the stories of the individuals.
I would call it 'Backseat'.
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
Timothy Straw Green by Benjamin Moore. I was a painter in it is my favorite color. Very provocative.
A day without a movie is...
A day that needs to readjusted.
If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despice
but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?
Yes but only if I could have creative input to make it better. If not, adios.
What's your greatest ambition?
To be the best father ever, and to make my daughter laugh.
What's your biggest fear?
I have not one but two disabling diseases and I don't want to be a burden to anyone. That would suck.
Does music helps you to play/direct, write?
Reggae, in particular Toots and the Maytalls. You gotta check them out.
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the
audience?
Never give up and in doing so you will be an inspiration to others.
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
Sorry but I believe in jinxes and that very act would assure me that I would never receive an Oscar. LOL.
Paul G Andrews - Interview
In 2005 Paul established international television production company GlobalWatch, working with a host of multi-national companies at CEO level. He has interviewed and collaborated with senior Government Officials and the UK’s minister for Trade & Industry. Paul established GlobalWatch Films in 2013 to produce a slate of feature films, from lower budget comedies and psychological horror features to larger budget films aimed at the North American studio market. He is also a multi-award-winning writer in his own right, with writing projects that he has been contributing to or written himself winning over 40 Best Screenplay Awards across four screenplays. These projects include Irish epic The Great Hunger, Gorger, An Island Apart, and On Par.
Tell me about yourself.
I have always been a massive film fanatic right from childhood. One might even say a romanticist and daydreamer with a very vivid imagination and a great ability to tell stories both happy, sad and endearing. Right now we have a slate of nine multi award winning screenplays ranging from historical epics to revenge movies and a spy thriller. I have worked in various areas of finance and marketing/branding/sales and have spent several decades in business tv and film production so believe I have developed a wide and very useful skillset which has helped achieve the success to date in film.
Tell me about your next film?
It’s a US $25m budget film called To Asmara, set in 1985 Ethiopia/Eritrea during the world famous LIVE AID concerts and infamous famine. It’s based on a best selling novel written by my friend and colleague, Thomas Keneally , the famed author of Schindler’s List. It tells the story of an attractive and brave African freedom fighter who falls in love with the hard-headed journalist she recruits to report and expose Eritrea’s war for independence during its conflict with famine ravaged Ethiopia.
Why did you choose to make this film To Asmara?
Because it was set during on one of the most famous stories in the 20th century , LIVE AID and the Ethiopian Famine, but it reflected what the public didn’t get told. It also covers many current key issues in the present day such as race and gender equality, false media reporting, government corruption and cover ups, war crimes and the way Africa has been treated by Western society in the past. The novel was also riveting and gave us an opportunity to develop such an outstanding screenplay that will in turn become an amazing film such as others produced in Africa like Blood Diamond, Hotel Rwanda and The Last King of Scotland and more recently The Woman King.
Do you think it will be a huge success?
Well it has been already as a novel and now as a multi award winning screenplay. These type of movies, epics, are being made less often as the studios focus on Marvel films and franchise movies like Fast and Furious. When they are eg 2013 ‘Twelve Years a Slave’, they make a massive impact. For me the litmus test is would I watch a movie again and again and the answer is yes if it’s a great story with compelling characters and drama that takes me on an emotional rollercoaster of a ride with twist and turns. There is a huge audience for this type of movie and this is a huge and significantly relevant global story and to a certain extent reflects what is sadly happening in Ukraine right now.
What other films are in pre-production?
We have our Irish Famine historical epic The Great Hunger (directed by double Oscar nominee Roland Joffe), a revenge crime thriller called Gorger and a powerful forbidden love story/gang drama called ON PAR set in South London and covering many teenage issues including mental health.
Describe the process you go through to select a director.
What qualities do you look for?
Since the director is a key figure for any project, I consider their experience, passion and cultural fit when making a hire. Over time, I've realized it's important to find a director who matches my personality so that we can have a good working relationship going forward. Then, I review their work experience and determine if it aligns with the project's needs.
Let's say you're looking to become a producer on a new project.
What do you look for when reading the script?
When reading a script, I look for an interesting protagonist and a clear premise or storyline that an audience can relate to. I also like to see a good flow of character dialogue. A script needs to interest me within the first few pages so that it makes me want to continue reading. As a producer, I feel it's important to find a project I'm genuinely interested in so I can put everything I have into seeing it succeed.
Have you ever had to choose between the quality of a project or meeting the deadline? If so, provide an example...
I've come across several situations where I had to choose between the quality of a production and the intended deadline. I aim to find a balance between the two. In my most recent project, I accelerated the production so that quality didn't falter. I also found ways to maintain the production's quality despite having to work faster to meet the original deadline. Thankfully, my experience as a producer helped me mitigate these situations.
Are you comfortable working with a team of people on a project?
I love collaborating with other professionals because it allows us all to bring our unique skills to the table. I find that when we work together as a team, we can accomplish much more than if we worked alone. When I’m producing a movie, I always try to get input from everyone on my team about different aspects of production. This helps me create a final product that’s well-rounded and meets everyone’s standards.
Describe your process for reviewing and selecting scripts.
I first read through the entire script to get an idea of the plot and characters. Then I look at the budget requirements and whether or not we can afford to make the movie. If so, I discuss the project with my team to see if they have any concerns or ideas for improvement. After that, I meet with the writer to discuss their vision for the movie and offer feedback on ways to improve the script. More so now we are creating our own scripts and across 8 film projects have won over 125 awards so we are doing something right.
What do you think is the most important aspect of a movie– the script, the visuals, or the overall message?
I think it’s important for a movie to have an excellent script, visuals and overall message. A good script is essential because it tells the story and creates the characters. The visuals are what make the movie come alive, so I believe they’re just as important as the script. Finally, the overall message of the movie is what makes people want to watch it in the first place. If there isn’t a strong message, then the movie won’t be memorable.
Which actors or actresses would you love to work with?
I would love to work with Emma Thompson or Dame Helen Mirren because I think both are incredible talents and are one of a few actresses that would be really be suitable for a major part in our African epic To Asmara that just won Best Screenplay at your International Film Festival in Florence. Their ability to engage an audience is unparalleled and both bring believability and compassion to the characters they play. Sam Rockwell and James McEvoy are two others that are so versatile but there are many others I like also.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good screenwriter?
Concept is everything. The audience wants to read/see something compelling — something engaging that they haven't seen before. It's the essential element to every great script.
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?
I agree to a certain extent but being smart and meticulous in your planning is very important. As the old cliché says ‘We don’t plan to fail, we fail to plan”
What's more important talent or luck?
Talent certainly for a great screenplay. When hard work meets talent success normally follows as you can create luck. But luck in who you know or access to funding can override everything meaning some projects get produced which reflect the latter meaning often the quality of what we see suffers. A great script sets up a scene and characters and leads them through a journey or over hurdles. By the closing of the movie, the viewer will see a bit of him or herself in your character/s, and this emotional connection allows the message to take hold.
If you should win an Oscar your first thought would go to…
Those that came second! No, Seriously, it would be to my family and people closest to me who have been there for me when it most mattered.
Nicolas Taylor - Interview
Nicolas Taylor is a Spanish American filmmaker. He was born in Phoenix, Arizona on December 2, 1997. He studied filmmaking at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona and co-created Crude Mechanical Films with Noah Bernardo in 2019.
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
I prefer to make dramas, but I love watching good comedies with my friends like the movie Raising Arizona.
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
I think that art imitates life because artists make what they know. What do we know better than the life we live everyday? One film I think does this well is 2018's "At Eternity's Gate" by Julian Schnabel. The film is about the life of Vincent Van Gogh and Julian is a painter himself. The film is about an artist made by an artist.
Which is the best Moment on set?
The best moment on set for me is nailing a scene that I knew would be difficult. We had an argument scene in a courtyard that involved handheld long takes and passionate performances. We did many takes, but once I saw the perfect take I was so happy. The excitement from the crew when it happens is what keeps us going.
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
Yes, I have had people tell me I wasn't good enough that realistically I wouldn't make it as a real filmmaker. But I have amazing support from my friends and family.
How can you stay focused on your goal?
I stay focused on my goal by reminding myself that this is what I want to do and what I love. I have too much respect for the story and the crew to not give it my all and make it the best I can.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
Yes, on my film "We Should Be Strangers" I had a feeling on one of the days that it was very overwhelming, I was second guessing myself, time was running out, and I didn't feel like I belonged there. But I pushed through it and now I am so insanely proud of the whole team and crew for what we made and I'm proud of myself.
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
I believe that talent is both a blessing and a curse. It is a blessing in that the talent will come very naturally to someone and they will most likely thrive immediately. But I feel it can be a curse in that sometimes that person won't know what it is like to struggle until they reach a high enough level and they can't just rely on talent anymore.
What would you like to improve about yourself as a filmmaker?
I would like to improve my time management skills as a director. I can sometimes get carried away trying to get a particular take that I accidentally push the schedule back a little bit. I had a short scene that should've taken about 20 minutes to shoot take almost an hour because I kept trying new camera set ups that weren't necessary.
What's the worst critic you have received?
I think the worst criticism I received was for a short film I made in film school which said "the idea is there, but the execution wasn't". I still think about that on set to make sure I serve the idea and crew and make it the best I can.
If you weren't a filmmaker what would you like to be?
I think I would be a movie critic if I wasn't a filmmaker. I love watching movies and talking about them afterwards, so I would love to tell the public what I thought of the movies that I've seen.
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
When I think of film I always see the sepia color from the beginning of the Wizard of Oz. The old timey look of those films are just classic to me and that's what I associate with film.
A day without a movie is...
A day without a movie is a sad day. I try to watch at least a movie or an episode of a TV show everyday if I can. For me I see it as homework, I'm learning from the ones who have made it in the industry and I learn what works and what doesn't.
If someone offered you to direct a movie that you despice but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?
I think if I were offered a job for an idea I despise, but it would make me rich and famous I would take it. Even though I hate the idea, I haven't made the movie yet. So I could try and change some things to make it better and try to make it better than what is on the page. I would see it as a learning opportunity and I would be blessed to make the films I wanted to from the succes I received.
What's your greatest ambition?
My greatest ambition is to try to make a film in every single genre if I can. I want to be a very diverse filmmaker and have audiences be surprised with the films I make.
What's your biggest fear?
My biggest fear is people seeing my name on a project and immediately having a negative opinion without having seen it. I think we should judge the movie and not what the filmmaker made before.
Does music helps you to direct, write?
Yes, I cannot write without listening to music. I make a playlist of the music I think the soundtrack would sound like and I play it on repeat to fully immerse myself into the world I am creating.
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?
We actually have a silent film in post production that we are very excited about. But the message we want to share with the film is that even if we lose someone we love, it's important to take how they taught us to be happy and use it to move forward and build relationships with those that are still here.
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
My Oscar speech would sound something like "First I'd like to thank the Academy for the amazing honor of just being here tonight. I'd like to thank my family and everyone who supported me during this journey. But most importantly I'd like to dedicate this award to the cast and crew of the film. Without them I am not standing here tonight and this is just as much theirs as it is mine. Thank you again to everyone and goodnight."
Robert Kouba - Interview
Born in the former Czechoslovakia in 1964 his parents emigrated in 1969 to Switzerland where he grew up. Robert had his first Super 8 Film Camera in 1974. Since then he is into movie making. But it was never his real profession, he is a lawyer. Robert made several movies with his son, who is also a film director. Now he is writing scripts and hope to find producers for his film projects. So far he received some awards for the script "Machliar".
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
I like both but I would prefer Comedy. Real Life is Drama enough!
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
Art imitates Life
Which is the best Moment on set?
When we just shot the perfect scene and everybody is relieved and happy.
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
Oh yes, all the time. But that should never give you a reason to give up !
How can you stay focused on your goal?
Concentrate on the work and the result.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
No, so far not.
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
It's a blessing if you understand how to use it in order to be happy.
What would you like to improve about yourself as a director/screenplayer?
I would like to improve my writing skills and write the perfect scipt.
What's the worst critic you have received?
That all of my characters in my script are not nice or sympathic and I thought they were nice !
If you weren't a director/screenplayer what would you like to be?
A musician. I play guitar and piano and I have my own band. So I would be a better musician.
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
Dark Blue
A day without a movie is...
Actually okay, because I don't watch a movie every day. I prefer to read a good book.
If someone offered you to direct/write a movie that you despice
but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?
It really depends on the offer. But I would be certainly inclined to accept the offer.
What's your greatest ambition?
To write a perfect script for the best movie ever.
What's your biggest fear?
That I won't be able to do what I like because of beeing sick.
Does music helps you to direct, write?
No, I don't listen to any music while I am writing. That would only distract me.
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the
audience?
Just loose yourself into the pictures without missing the words or music.
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
I would like to thank my parents who were brave enough to leave the communist Czechoslovakia back in the 60's in order to give me a better life. Without them I would not stand here before you and holding this Oscar.
Thank you very much. I love you all !
Francesca O’Hop - Interview
Francesca has had a life-long passion for the film and television industry. After doing cameo appearances as a pre-teen in an episode of the U.S. television series Modern Marvels and two episodes of How the States Got Their Shapes, she recently graduated from the Film and Television Studies program at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, class of 2021. She discovered her love of music videos and eye for visual aesthetic through Korean Pop, and sought out classes in Korean language and culture at NYU. Francesca is half-Chilean, half-Polish, and a fluent Spanish speaker, as well as a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community herself. Francesca has won numerous awards for her feature screenplay "Black Ocean" and her short screenplay "Phases of the Moon". She was also co-writer for the short film "Della", which is currently in production.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director/screenplayer?
A desire to learn new things constantly is the most necessary ingredient for me. There is a common saying that you should "Write what you know," but let's be honest, you can always know more! The broader our worldview is, the more stories we can tell, whether through our writing, our directring, or our acting.
First and last cinematographic crush?
Honestly, the first one was probably Jasmine from Disney's "Aladdin", when I was four. I can't remember the most recent cinematic crush, but that's okay, because I only have eyes for my partner!
How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?
When I was 15, I officially decided to go into film as a career. I have always been a writer, whether it was playing with my dolls and giving them incredibly in-depth backstories or drawing little picture books in my preschool classes. The catalyst for my desire to be a screenwriter, however, was finding Korean Pop music videos when I was 15. Every video was so cinematic and so dense with both verbal and environmental storytelling. Discovering K-Pop completely changed how I saw filmmaking, and solidified my desire to be a screenwriter. It's been nine years since that discovery, and I couldn't be happier!
For you a Film is...
For me, film is a medium of art that uses every other medium of art, including visuals, audio, and performance.
What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?
I have ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), which means I am constantly thinking about multiple things at once. Since being a writer and director means you have to keep track of multiple things at once, it feels like a very natural extension of how my brain already works. So because of my neurodivergence, I actually find the processes of writing and directing immensely gratifying!
You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna watch it?
I'd love to watch a movie with the late Satoshi Kon. "Paprika" left a massive impact on how I write visuals and dream sequences, and is one of my favorite movies. As for what movie we'd see...honestly I would watch anything with him. I would just want to know how he sees the world.
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?
I agree that nothing is impossible; however, some things are more challenging to achieve than others.
Can you live just on your passion?
I think in general yes, it is possible to live on just your passion. In order to live on just your passion, though, it takes a lot of planning and perseverance.
What's more important, talent or luck?
I think that talent is more important than luck, because talent can beget luck, but luck can't always beget talent.
You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...
Any of Hayao Miyazaki's films, especially "Spirited Away", "Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind", or "Howl's Moving Castle"!
Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?
Luckily, I have not! I have always seen the commissions I didn't expect as new opportunities to expand my horizons!
What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?
When I was writing "Black Ocean," my first feature screenplay, I reached out to one of my professors at New York University. This professor in particular was known for being tough as nails and brutally honest, and I valued his opinion the most out of any professor I had. I met with him and discussed my script, to which he gave amazing feedback. The next day, I came to class, and he called me out in front of the other students and told me he had forgotten to tell me something. I held my breath, unsure of what was going to come. This man looked at me and said the best compliment I have ever received: "Your first 10 pages are the most important. You don't need to change yours." My heart burst with joy. To this day, more than three years later, if I am struggling with a script, those words pop into my head and push me past my anxiety.
Are you satisfied with your career?
I was lucky to get my start very young, my first internship being at the age of 16. Since then, I have been more than grateful for all of the opportunities I have gotten and the amazing people I have worked with. That said, I am only 24 years old now - I have a lifetime ahead of me to grow and develop as a filmmaker. Therefore, to answer the question, I am more than satisfied with where I am now, but I am always looking to try new things!
Do you have a good luck charm?
My partner, Rishika. She has brought so much joy to my life and encouraged me at every step of the way. She's a neuroscientist, so she always gives incredible insight on my projects, no matter what they are. I love her from the bottom of my heart.
Which is the worst moment on set ?
It's easily the time I was tricked by a director into being the victim in a sexual assault scene. I was a crew member on a classmate's project and they asked me to be an actor in their film on short notice. They informed the other actor that they would be playing a rapist, but didn't tell me that I would have my jacket ripped off and that I would be pushed into a wall. I didn't find out until 45 minutes into the shoot what the intent of the scene was, and told the director that I would not have my clothing ripped off. The director defended their decision, saying that I would be beating up the rapist in the scene and that it would be okay. I stood firm and told them no, I would not let myself be undressed in the middle of the street. I never would have agreed to do the scene if I had been informed of it. The other actor was completely horrified that I hadn't been informed what the scene was, and asked me the rest of the night if I was doing okay. I told my friends and my loved ones what happened, saved documentation of the event, and resolved to never put another actor or crew member through what I went through.
How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?
It's always bittersweet. I find joy in finishing the work and being proud of what I did, but I often revisit my old work and miss the process of doing it. However, that just encourages me to improve upon my process with whatever new projects I have.
Have you ever lied to get a part/job?
Never - I pride myself on honesty. I would rather people know that I am queer, neurodivergent, and have been through hell and come out the other side, rather than try to pretend that I am a very narrow version of normal.
If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to…
My first thanks would go to my mother and brother. They have always supported me, through thick and thin. But recently, they have been especially encouraging in my creative endeavors. For context, my father passed away in the summer of 2021, and he had been my biggest creative partner. He had been reading and editing my stories, and helping me workshop ideas. Since his passing, my mother and brother have been extremely helpful in talking me through my thoughts, reading my scripts, and making me feel less alone. I would not be where I am without my family, and I love them with everything that I am.