When did you decide you wanted to be a director?
In the beginning, I didn't know that I wanted to be a director. I started this journey with a YouTube gaming channel where I had to get proficient at every role of the production. Eventually, I decided to end that YouTube channel and focus on my undergrad at Northern Illinois University. It was here that I enrolled in my first film course and developed a love for filming. Since then, I've directed 15 feature length episodes of our web series "Expedition Entity" and three other documentaries that are in various stages of post-production. I don't think there is anything else that I would want to do at this point, other than be a director.
How did your family react?
Originally, my family was very skeptical and still are to this day. While it is amazing to post about the awards we receive for our series, my family has always been concerned about the financial hit directing your own projects entails. Most small producers and directors don't have investors willing to finance their projects, so they have to come up with their own sources. I fall into this category and self-fund my own projects. I think my family will always be concerned about me doing this until I'm able to make a living as a director.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
If I had to pick a muse, I would have to say the paranormal is my muse. I feel the most comfortable filming paranormal documentaries, and as long as the research and pre-production is done I can film almost anything that involves ghost hunting or ghosts. If I had to pick a role model, I would say Zak Bagans. The documentaries he produces are all very high quality and I would love to see myself at his level one day.
Who's your biggest fan?
I think right now I would have to say Shane Walker, a fan from Rhode Island. He is always sharing our content on social media, has supported us by purchasing merchandise, and is traveling to Wisconsin this year for a convention we're presenting at. Aside from Shane, I have a small group of friends who are all very supportive of what we do and it makes doing this a lot easier.
What brings you inspiration the most?
Dark, spooky buildings that look abandoned. Aside from the paranormal aspect, I love filming in these locations because of the vibe.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
Because I focus on documentaries, one actor that I would love to work with is Josh Gates. His Travel Channel series are always very well done and I believe I could learn a lot from his experience.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
The short answers is no, most films lose a lot of context when being adapted from a book because you lose what the narrator brings to the story. Also, sometimes the content of the book is too much to fit into a single film and things have to be cut. But cutting things from the story, even if it's something minor, could have a domino effect on something later in the story.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
Since I mostly focus on documentaries, I don't have a movie that has taught me the most. If I had to choose a documentary that has taught me the most, it would be Zak Bagans' "Demon House" on Discovery. His use of b-roll and sound design made me really analyze how I use b-roll and sound in my own works. I hope to one day produce on the same level as him.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
Probably once a month. I tend to take on more work than what I should, which is evident by the three documentaries floating around in different stages. Sometimes trying to do pre-production, production, and post-production mostly by yourself can be a lot to put on your shoulders and makes you want to walk away. But, when the project is done and people respond to the work I've done, it always makes me glad that I pushed a little bit harder to finish it up. Though, once these three documentaries are done I plan to take a little break and focus on one project at a time.
On set what excites you the most?
Lighting. I love how the look comes together due to lighting and seeing our interview subject lit up really gets me excited for the day.
And what scares you the most?
Storage and battery issues are two things that really stress me out while on set. Due to working with the paranormal, sometimes storage mediums decide not to save files or full batteries decide to die after 30 minutes of use. If the drive doesn't save the footage, you won't know about it until you download at the end of the day. At that point, you might never be able to get the same footage again because most of our stuff is filmed "live."
What's your next project?
Right now we're in the middle of our third season for "Expedition Entity," so that is always going to be the next project until PARAFlixx decides they're done with us.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose
Zak Bagans, I would love to be where he is career-wise.
An director is made of....
Directors are made of anxiety, caffeine, and insomnia.
For you Cinema is....
It's all about bringing a vision to life, sometimes a vision that someone didn't know they had. Then you bring that vision to the masses and they identify with it whether they knew they would or not.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
I think they can if done right. Because we do most of our filming in the dark, we film the majority of our documentaries under IR light that comes out as black and white on the screen. I also really liked "Sin City," which used black and white with splashes of color, and I loved how they drew out different aspects of each character based on what they colored, what color they used, and how they used it.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
I haven't dreamed of winning an Oscar, but also don't think I'm at that level yet. I'm still happy with the indie film awards I'm earning, but the time will come where one day I set my sights higher.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
With the right crew behind me, anything is possible.
When did you decide you wanted to be an actor/director/ screenplayer?
I can always remember the feeling of being to the movie theater when I was a child It was amazing to enjoy the images on a huge screen and not think about anything else. Then I moved to LA to learn filmmaking and I found that the process of creating the movie was more exciting than the movie itself. Now I focus on visual effects for film to create more exciting image.
How did your family react?
I was fortunate when I started out that my family was fully supportive of my film career. They trusted me and let me choose the path I wanted to pursue.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
Christopher Nolan (talk about another reason than budgets)
Who's your biggest fan?
My family and friends are very supportive of my work.
What brings you inspiration the most?
There are so many movies, novels and games that inspired me, and Satoshi Kon’s animations is one of them. His works constantly reminds me that there is no limit to storytelling and visual expression. Imagination is always the most important thing in film.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
I would like to work with anyone. But it is better to work with people who like to try new things.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
Denis Villeneuve’s Arrival is an amazing film based on Ted Chiang’s novel, Stories of Your Life. I think the movie did a great job of recreated the story depicted in the book, which I think is very hard to visualize. But I won’t say which one is better, both the movie and the book are great.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
If I must pick one movie that taught me the most, I will choose Satoshi Kon’s Paprika. I saw the film several times and I learnt a lot from it. The visual of Paprika is amazing. His way of depicting the dream is very worth learning.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
No, I love what I am doing right now. And I will keep doing that.
On set what excites you the most?
The moment I got the footage, that is when all magic starts.
And what scares you the most?
Make the first step of doing anything.
What's your next project?
My next movie will be a cyberpunk-themed science fiction movie.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
I am satisfied with being myself.
An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....
Compassion and imagination.
For you Cinema is....
A dream
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
It’s hard to tell if black and white movies are still powerful. The last black and white movie I saw is The Lighthouse(2019). I can imagine that if they shoot it with color film, they can also reach the same level visually.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
Yes, absolutely.
Do you think you're going to win it?
I wish I can.
When did you decide you wanted to be a screenwriter?
For me, I caught the screenwriting bug when my first script, adapted from my book LEFT ALONE, became the most awarded screenplay of the year. Int'l Screenwriters Assoc. nominated me "Screenwriter of the Month". I was thrilled and was then very excited to write a dark comedy with Suz Carr, who is a very experienced, seasoned screenwriter. We did very well with our screenplay "Pill", it won awards from Los Angeles to the UK - that was also a lot of fun! We just refined the script for "Left Alone" as we continue to keep moving forward as award-winning screenwriters, enjoying our collaborations.
How did your family react?
Our families were naturally thrilled, proud and excited for the successes we continue to enjoy.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
Not necessarily a muse or role model, but I've always loved Stephen King. He can frighten you, keep you on the edge of your seat, and make you weep for his characters. He is a master storyteller, and his novels all translate well onto the screen.
Who's your biggest fan?
My family - and I can count on them to be brutally honest....unfortunately!
What brings you inspiration the most?
I have a very active imagination. I use a bit of my own life experience in most of my screenplays and novels. I live vicariously through my characters. Plus, I enjoy leaving a little piece of me in everything I write.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
I love Martin Scorsese! I also love the music he puts into his work, The Departed was great in so many ways,
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
This question is hysterical because both Suz and I had the same immediate thought - Harry Potter! Suz then went directly to the Lord of the Rings movies and added: Peter Jackson may have skipped pieces of the books, which he arguably had to if he wanted to make movies you didn't have to have a sleepover to watch; however, the movies made the characters so realistic, the story so larger than life and their world so vibrant, that I honestly felt that I lived it with them. This comes from someone who read the books at age ten and has loved them all her life.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
I cannot say that I have one that I could say taught me the most, but the film that I love the most and, in some ways, motivated me to write Urban Fantasy/Funky Mythos would be the Princess Bride. It is a classic fantasy, with humor, action, love, suspense, friendship, monsters, imperfect heroes, sass, and some great villains. What more could you ask for?
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
I'll answer for the both of us as I'm sure we've each had those moments....but here we are years later, still two friends writing, creating together - and having fun doing it while winning, and being recognized again!
What's your next project?
We are working on a screenplay right now that is a straight comedy. Write what you know, and we love to laugh - a lot.
A screenwriter is made of...
90% water, some carbon, minerals .... and a lot of ideas!
For you Cinema is....
A visual and emotional experience. An artform to be expressed by the creator and interpreted by the viewer.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
I still love Bogart/Bacall films. The longevity alone makes them powerful.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
Not yet....
Do you think you're going win one?
Why not!
Tell us about your cowriter Suz FM Carr...
From a young age, Suz Carr has been involved in the entertainment industry, from acting in local community theater in her childhood and youth to radio commercials in college, and in the film industry as an adult. With over three decades of complete industry experience, Suz now focuses on her writing. She writes both (Award-winning ) screenplays and novels (As S.F.M. Carr) and is normally working on multiple projects with her writing partners...like me and R.R. Hailey.
How did you meet?
We met during the film festival season in 2014 when i was promoting my first screenplay and winning screenplay awards. I asked Sue to collaborate on a dark comedy and we both had a lot of fun writing that script. It garnered many Best Screenplay awards from L.A. to the UK - that was incredibly fun!
What about Suz's books...
"Sanctuary" is a very popular paranormal romance novel, then she has written 3 books in her "Maggie's Bliss" series. She's a prolific writer!
When did you decide you wanted to be a director and screenplayer?
I’ve always been drawn to the creative process of storytelling, and when writing the scripts I love envisioning how a story will play out on screen. For me, the technical aspects of screenwriting, such as formatting and structure was a hurdle I had to overcome earlier on but now I’m quite particular when it comes to how I set up Final Draft. It is still so exciting to see my work come to life on the big screen.
How did your family react?
They have been so supportive and proud of my accomplishments. When starting out it’s so hard just to get someone to notice, and it can even be a bit embarrassing as it’s such a long path from writing to producing a movie. They have always been there for me and it’s truly made all the difference in the world.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
Not really a role model per se, but I do love the work of so many people. What James Cameron has done is fascinating, both on and off the screen. Growing up Jim Henson and his absolute commitment and passion towards Muppets was always a source of joy and, now, inspiration. Walt Disney is another visionary I love and not only was he passionate and successful, but he was also an innovator creating many animation techniques that we still use today.
Who's your biggest fan?
Probably my mom.
What brings you inspiration the most?
I think I admire those who have their ‘own voice’ with clear vision, regardless if it’s weird or non-commercial. I also admire those who ‘keep at it’ as I don’t believe this is an ‘overnight success’ industry as many believe. It’s something John Madden called ‘stick-to-it-ive-ness’.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
So many to pick from. Born and raised in Vancouver, it’s hard not to actually mention Ryan Reynolds by name.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
It’s really hard not to mention Shawshank Redemption and Forrest Gump as those two are almost Trivia Pursuit questions.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
I have to say Corrective Measures but those lessons were more tiring and painful than this question. As an audience member, the documentary I leaned the most was probably Food Inc, and oddly I think Avatar, along with James Cameron’s Masterclass really gave me insight into his decision making process.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
Weekly. This is a brutal industry with exceptional highs, and crushing lows. Looking back, I’m actually thankful I’m in a position to quit. When I first started out, I was so over-leveraged that quitting wasn’t even an option as it would have ruined me and my family. Weirdly, a moment contemplating to quit everything, is somewhat a luxury. And no, I hope I never will quit this maddending race.
On set what excites you the most?
Getting a production financed.
And what scares you the most?
Getting a production financed. ;)
What's your next project?
The next movie I’m writing, directing and producing will be American Wasteland and we’re in production of our next animated feature film, Ultraduck.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
I’m not sure about ‘steal’, but man I would love to have been a fly on the wall with George Lucas and some of his meetings at Fox, Disney, toy manufacturers, writing rooms and more.
An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....
An actor is made of equal parts talent and dedication. They have the ability to fully inhabit a character and bring them to life, whether on stage or on screen. They are also made of hard work and a willingness to continually learn and improve their craft.
A director is made of equal parts creativity and organization. They have a vision for how they want to bring a story to life and the skills to bring that vision to fruition. They are able to see the big picture and break it down into manageable tasks for the cast and crew. A director is also made of determination and resilience, as they often face challenges and setbacks on the road to completing a production. And of course, a great director is also made of a love for storytelling and the desire to create meaningful, impactful art.
A screenplayer is made of imagination and the ability to craft a compelling story. They have the ability to visualize a story and translate it into a written document that can be turned into a film or television show. They are also made of the discipline to sit down and write, even when the words don't come easily.
For you Cinema is....
To me, cinema is a powerful medium for storytelling and self-expression. It allows us to explore different worlds, to see things from different perspectives, and to experience a wide range of emotions. It also has the power to bring people together and to spark conversations and debates.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
Black and white movies can certainly have a powerful impact. Many classic films are shot in black and white, and these movies have stood the test of time due to their strong storytelling and enduring themes. The absence of color can also add to the mood and atmosphere of a film, and can allow the viewer to focus more on the performances of the actors and the emotions being conveyed. In short, the use of black and white does not necessarily make a film more or less powerful; it is ultimately the content of the film and how it is conveyed that determines its impact.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
I guess I’m guilty of having a fleeting thought, but I know I’m not pursuing anything that has a ‘shot’ at winning an Oscar. While I do love movies that qualify for the Oscars, I’m usually more in the genre space which has a harder time getting recognized.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
Not unless I try.
When did you decide you wanted to be a director?
It’s been a bit of a roundabout journey. When I was a young child I had a pretty bad stammer that led to me being unable to verbally communicate very well so I took solace in comic books and developed an obsession with Universal and Hammer horror films. I became interested in make-up effects and tried to make various costumes for my homemade horror films, including shaving our family dog to make a werewolf costume much to my mother’s dismay!
Then I saw Jaws at the cinema and that was a total game changer. It moved me in so many ways. Mainly I was just amazed that someone could invoke such a sense of terror with camera movement and music. It's genius. I used to draw a lot and studied graphic design at college, then when I left college I worked for a company that designed brand identities for TV channels. This was an amazing place to learn various aspects of film making as it involved special effects, model making, motion control filming working with actors etc. From there I made a number of short films and then moved into directing commercials. I have directed a lot of commercials for a wide variety of brands. I absolutely love the discipline of making commercials, when you get a good script you can really feel the story arc and it’s like making a mini drama.
How did your family react?
When I was younger my mother was incredibly supportive of all my creative ambitions but she wasn’t too happy when I shaved the family dog to make the werewolf costume.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
There are many directors whom I admire such as Chris Nolan, Steven Soderbergh and the Coen Brothers but I think the main one who really stands out for me is Steven Spielberg.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
There are many directors whom I admire such as Chris Nolan, Steven Soderbergh and the Coen Brothers but I think the main one who really stands out for me is Steven Spielberg.
Who's your biggest fan?
It used to be my mum before she passed away but now I think my wife Jo has taken over her mantle.
What brings you inspiration the most?
I grew up in Wales and I think the rugged landscapes and weather gave me a subconscious appreciation for nature and landscape. My grandmother used to live in a small mining village in South Wales and there used to be trains shunting wagons of coal right outside her house as well as cable cars running up the mountain opposite. I found these dramatic yet ultimately bleak industrial environments sat within such dramatic landscapes truly fascinating. I think growing up in these environments has led to an inner sense of melancholy and emotion that seems to seep into my work. I also love listening to and observing people, I think you can learn a lot by just sitting and watching.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
I love working with actors and I have been lucky to have worked with some brilliant actors including the Oscar winner Jeremy Irons, Maxine Peake, Charles Dance and Jason Isaacs. I’d love to work with Olivia Colman - as she makes everything feel effortless yet utterly captivating, the camera seems to love her, she is just incredible. Also Anthony Hopkins is another actor I really admire and would love to work with, I really like his sense of playfulness and I’m sure he’s got some amazing stories to tell.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
Yes, Jaws.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
When I’m in a tricky situation on set or when a project is going wrong and I’m under pressure I always say to myself “Steven Spielberg faced being sacked every single day when he was making Jaws”. Somehow this brings me some comfort.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
Not really, no. I have experienced some difficult situations and working in the creative industry means you face many setbacks but you have to possess a resilience, an inner drive to push forward. It’s important to keep moving forward and challenge yourself.
On set what excites you the most?
I love working with actors - watching them breathe life into a character who up until that point has only existed on a page is just incredible. When I worked with Jeremy Irons on my short film “I Wish for You” he had to read a letter that his character had written to his granddaughter. We recorded the sound in a small garden shed on the location and Jeremy’s reading provided the voiceover that underpinned our film. We started to record the first take and it was absolutely fantastic. We got to the end and I said ‘cut’. I turned to Sam the sound man and asked him how long the take was and he said “it’s just over five minutes”. Jeremy asked how long I wanted it to be and I said “three minutes” so he went through it all in his head then said “OK let’s go again”. The second take was even better, it made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end as I sat listening to Jeremy. When he finished I held my breath as I turned to Sam who said “Three minutes and six seconds”! The precision that must have taken from Jeremy is just mind-bending.
And what scares you the most ?
In a creative sense I can’t say that I really get scared as such, but the night before and the morning of a shoot I really feel a nervous sense of excitement - especially if you have a big day ahead of you. The key for me is channeling that energy in a very positive way. I try hard not to get bogged down and I trust the prep I have done, shooting fast and nimble seems to work for me. If I’m away working then I really like the thought of stepping out of the hotel room in the morning with butterflies in my stomach thinking the next time I step back through this door I will have accomplished something.
What's your next project?
I’m working with a friend and writer Chris Aldous on a drama/thriller project called “The Container” as well as a few commercials.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
I have admired David Bowie from a young age - he had the most amazing career and I loved his attitude to creativity. To me he seemed to have a sort of playfulness and curiosity. He was always ahead of the curve and had an incredible ability to recreate himself. Anyone who can write the lyric “I gazed a gazely stare” is a genius in my book.
A director is made of....
… a desire to tell stories with pictures.
For you Cinema is....
…. magical, inspirational, emotional and above all its shared escapism.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
Absolutely. Black and white takes the audience out of the ordinary, it strips away the everyday distraction and can make the most mundane scene feel extraordinary. I think as a director you have to really work on the composition and the staging to tell the story in a far more visual sense than when working in colour.I also love the way black and white forces you to think differently about lighting, costume and production design as well as the sort of image quality you want to achieve. If you look at films like ‘Night of the Hunter’ you can see that Charles Laughton worked really hard on the staging and composition, the visual storytelling is amazing. The same with ‘Schindler’s List’, the horrors in the story take on a different resonance than they would in colour.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
Yes.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
I always live in hope.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good director?
Determination and self-belief. No one is going to give you a job as a director, so you have to go out there and grab it. And you have to believe you can do it. With A Love Worth Fighting For, I had that belief: as a screenwriter, I always write very visually so I had every scene played out in my head already. I was also lucky to be able to write the screenplay with some of my cast attached, so I could write for the actors too. And I scouted the locations myself, and became intimately acquainted with them; and I visited them all with my incredible DOP, Hsien Yu Niu, so when the shoot came we just put into effect what I had already imagined. So I never had any doubts. Enter each project in whatever way eliminates your own doubts, and it’ll be fine.
First and last cinematographic crush?
Kate Winslet. But in terms of films: my father to took me to see Dances With Wolves when I was 11 (it was rated 12). That blew my young mind in many ways: the story, the cinematography, the scenery, the acting, the history, the cruelty and sadness of the American West and the decline of Native American culture. My favourite movie of 2022 was Top Gun: Maverick - just such good fun. Best TV of 2022: SAS Rogue Heroes created by Steven Knight based on Ben Macintyre’s magnificent book. And yes, Kate Winslet (still).
How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an director/screenwriter
In my thirties! It’s never too late… I finally found a way of writing and collaborating with a whole range of other creative professionals. I love collaboration and teamwork and when is a team is passionate about something I’ve created it’s a great feeling.
For you a Film is…
A portal into another world where you can escape this one.
What do you feel when you're directing/writing?
Invincible. (I worry that I’m not the rest of the time!) I also feel really privileged to be able to create worlds and stories and characters. When writing comedy I also laugh out loud a lot. If I don’t laugh, what chance does have an audience have?!
You can go to the movies with a director that you love. What movie and who will you watch it with?
I’d take Steven Spielberg to see Saving Private Ryan. I’d take to dinner afterwards to ask a hundred questions - I think in terms of learning from a great director that combination of director and film would take some beating.
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”; what do you think about it?
I think this about self-belief. The film industry is a tough nut to crack, and if you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will. But if you believe you can be an Oscar-winning actor - or whatever - then that’s the first step. The next thousand steps will be putting that into action, for which you will need talent, determination, unassailable confidence (combined with clear-sighted realism) and probably some luck… so with that in mind, I rather agree with Audrey.
What's more important talent or luck?
Talent. Without it, luck will only carry you so far. A dash of Mojo helps too.
You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie…
The English Patient. It captured my imagination as a young man and I still love it.
Have you ever accepted a movie to direct or a script to write even if you didn't like the project?
No. I have to be totally into a project to work on it: there’s just not enough time to become involved with projects that don’t excite me. But when something excites me I give it my all.
What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?
Winning awards is wonderful. And compliments from colleagues, actors, crew, other writer and directors, especially ones whose work I like and respect is huge. But the things that stick with me most are the audience’s reactions to my work: hearing a theatre erupt into laughter, or watching an audience coming out of the cinema with tears in their eyes...
Are you satisfied about your career?
Yes, when I think about it. But I never look back; only forwards and upwards.
Do you have a good luck charm?
No.
Which is the worst moment on set?
When it rains when you really need sun. Otherwise I quite like the stress that a set brings. It’s a good type of stress: if there’s a problem, it needs fixing, then and there. Practical solutions. Good stress.
How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?
When is the end? The end of a shoot is a milestone which is simultaneously fulfilling, happy, and sad. But the end of the shoot is the beginning of post, and the end of post is the beginning of the project’s journey into the world… to an audience… There are so many stages of a project, and the end of one project can often lead to another, so I rather regard individual projects as part of a bigger journey.
Have you ever lied to get a part/job?
No.
If you should win an Oscar your first thought would go to…
The team that helped make that win happen. That’s the great thing about the industry - it’s all about teamwork.
When did you decide you wanted to be an actress\ filmmaker\ writer?
Since I was little, I wanted to be an actress because you could be whoever you wanted to. If you wanted to be a lawyer, a detective, an astronaut…you could be all of them. Later, I started writing poems and short stories. I studied English Literature and now I’m finishing my PhD in Postmodernism. One year before the Covid lockdown I decided to write a comedy and film it.
How did your family react?
My family didn´t believe this way of life could be enough for a living. They never liked the idea of having a daughter being an actress or a filmmaker.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
I have always liked several actors or actresses. I don´t have any one in mind. I like, Johnny Depp, Keanu Reeves, Robert De Niro, Jack Nicholson, Meryl Streep, Charlize Theron, Cate Blanchett…
Who's your biggest fan?
My students. I’m teaching in the High School.
What brings you inspiration the most?
I love imagination, funny situations, I like comedy. Strange or weird situations in my life are my inspiration. Also, the people you meet. Funny encounters.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
Steven Spielberg, James Cameron, Quentin Tarantino.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
The Fight Club, The Silence of the Lambs
What's the movie that taught you the most?
The Intouchables.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
No, I’m always optimistic. Try till the end is my leitmotif.
On set what excites you the most?
I like to work with the impro technique. I like the French New Wave films, too and their technique used in filming. To put all this in practice it’s exciting for me.
And what scares you the most?
When you have difficulties in finishing a project.
What's your next project?
I’m still trying to finish all the episodes of my pilot Tv series. When we finish it, we can think of making other projects.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
Jonny Depp is a very interesting person for me. An actor/director/screen player is made of....
Perseverance and patience.
For you Cinema is....
The 7th Art. The Big Screen where you can see the book you read.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
I think they still have got an impact; Modern times are changing so when you watch a movie in black and white, it draws your attention. Belfast, for example.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
Who has never dreamt of it? I think everybody dreams of winning an Oscar.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
As I always say it, it can be difficult but not impossible. Who knows…
Dreaming is for free.
When did you decide you wanted to be an actor/director/ screenplayer?
Movies have been my drug since the summer of 1990, when, at 5 years old, I was struck with awesome wonder by “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” and “Dick Tracy”. From that age, storytelling became my way of reproducing the magic that unfolded before my eyes while sitting in the theater. At such a young age, you can imagine, I had little say in the stories I was exposed to and no access to film equipment. I was forced by circumstance, then, to work around my limitations. I taught myself to read by sounding out the words in “The Sea Wolf” by Jack London and forced myself to mull over its characters’ existential arguments until I thought I’d achieved the best understanding of the contents and context that I could. After that, there were no other books in arm’s reach, so I’d read the titles on their spines and imagine what the stories might be. I took to writing like a fish to water and tried my hand as a novelist, but as the older I grew, the more, fresh exciting ideas filled my head, and the time I had to explore them dwindled in equal measure. A couple years ago, it dawned on me that screenplays are a fraction the size of novels, and I was always more interested in the cinema, anyway, so I pivoted. I wrote my next venture as a screenplay. It took me two years, instead of ten. Not only that, but throughout the process, I could feel a sense of that same awesome wonder I’d experienced as a kid.
How did your family react?
My immediate family has never taken me or my interests seriously. Growing up, they neither understood me nor made any attempt to understand me, my drive, or my dreams. There was nothing particularly strange about me that’d warrant the mental, emotion, and physical backlash I incurred at their hands. The only difference between them and me was that I was curious and welcoming to those who were different from me and whose differences expanded my worldview, whereas my parents and siblings would ridicule and berate me, openly. My parents would even punish me for it. To their credit, my family has adapted with the times, and they’re less concerned by differences which have no effect on their own lives. Ironically, it was my family’s actions in their attempts to force my conformity which hastened my escape into a passion for storytelling and emboldened my stubborn rebuke of exclusionary notions and communities.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
My role model is an artist named Julie Purdum. She’s a highly-regarded painter who’s seen some success. She’s also my aunt, for whom I am eternally grateful. She’s lived with severe rheumatoid arthritis her entire adult life. In her twenties, she was told she’d never be able to use her hands again. In response, she underwent invasive surgery to fuse her bones to hold a paintbrush. That’s only the tip of the iceberg of her life story. I hope to write a screenplay about it someday.
Who's your biggest fan?
My wife, a successful creative in her own right, is my champion, always. But, as her quality of life is inexorably tied to mine, she’s also something of a realist. Rightly so. I have, though, a core group of friends, mostly in creative fields, who are not so reliant on my ability to produce half a monthly household income, and they are blindly in my corner.
What brings you inspiration the most?
Movie trailers and book titles. I’m still inspired by titles of books I’ve never read. I also watch well-crafted trailers that misrepresent the movies they’re promoting. I like to dream up the story of the movie that’s promised. Teasers are the best for this.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
Robert Rodriguez directing David Harbour in a film produced by Christopher McQuarrie.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
I think, “To Kill A Mockingbird,” while it stayed very close to its source material, made small changes that heightened immediacy, quickened the pace, and added even greater weight to the ending. That’s expert craftsmanship on the part of either the screenwriter, Horton Foote, or perhaps more likely, the editor, Aaron Stell, as, really, only one scene was left out of the book. The rest was a matter of arrangement.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” taught me how to respect an audience and the source material at the same time. “Dark City” taught me pacing, “Desperado” taught me to treat a gun in cinema like a musical instrument and a gunfight like a dance. Everything else, I learned from Sergio Leone.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
Every day. I believe very much that nothing I write will ever be produced. I live in constant fear of the day that I look back on my life and think about all the time that I’d wasted focusing on a passion - an obsession, really - that took me nowhere. I’ll be stuck on an image in my head, of my wife waking up every morning, alone, in a cold bed. Possibly, she’d be wondering why I’m not there, but I know that I will, because I already do. When I was younger, I had the foresight to know that, if I ever fell in love, I’d want to give up my creative endeavor in favor of happiness. To combat that, before finding the love of my life, I arranged my whole existence around writing and, to a lesser degree, acting. Now, I’m trapped. Just as I’d planned.
On set, what excites you the most?
The opportunity to collaborate. I feel very connected to my work and, certainly, I’d love to see it play out on the big screen just as it’s written. But for that to be my overarching goal is too selfish, alienating, and, frankly, boring. I wrote the script. I already saw that movie as it played out in my head. So, my greater interest is to connect my work with an engaged audience, and the best way to do that is through the collaborative process that’s so unique to filmmaking. The screenplay is a roadmap, and maps have borders. the road does not. It’s a lot more fun to take the trip than it is to draw the map.
And what scares you the most?
Regret. I think the fear of regret is mostly what fuels my drive, even in the face of imminent failure. To a lesser degree, I fear having a worthwhile idea or manuscript and having it stolen. As I understand it, there’s minimal risk of such a thing actually happening, but the fear is there, nonetheless.
What's your next project?
A sci-fi noir actioner set in modern-day Chicago, “Men In Black” meets “The Big Heat”.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
I’d never want to take the career of an artist whose work I admired. If I did that, I’d lose the chance to admire their work. Rather, I’d want to take the career of someone I didn’t admire but whose work got produced, and I’d make use of their resources to further my own creative ends. That said, while a few names come to mind, I think it’s best I not share them.
An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....
Screenwriters are pretentious and insane. They must be, in order to compensate for the cynicism they need in order to produce something of value. We must live cosntantly in this duality, to be both firmly, dubiously confident in our ability, and to question and despise every idea, notion, word, and syllable we write. Until we don’t. That’s how we know we’re ready to show our work.
For you, Cinema is....
At its essence, Cinema is communication. A shared dream come to life or a timelapse of fleeting culture. It’s honest, it’s propaganda, it’s a journal of hypotheticals. If a work is remembered, it’s a time capsule.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
The impact of black and white on modern films can’t be overstated, for better or worse. Where appropriate, B&W can be an effective tool. “The Artist” and “The Man Who Wasn’t There” come to mind. But as a gimmick, it rarely works. Black & White is representative of an era in film when tech was low, and story was minimal and effective. By minimal, I don’t mean simple. B&W is best used when the story’s focus is on material, specific, or minute detail. Converting overt or obvious CGI, meant to be experienced in color, to b&w or “chrome” has a neutering effect that can take a viewer out of the moment. As well, converting a film shot for b&w can have an equally negative impact on a story. For example, It’s A Wonderful Life is a cold film, and the b&w has an immersive effect for the viewer to connect with George. Taking that away by adding color severs that connecting thread. While I think it’s rare that a film made today could be enhanced by a b&w conversion, I think one such example is, “The Hudsucker Proxy”. It’s a story which reflects that bygone era and even that “cold” feeling similar to “It’s A Wonderful Life”. For a contemporary-set film, I’d say, “Fargo” or “A Simple Plan”. I don’t think it's coincidence that these are films by the Coen Bros and Sam Raimi.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
As a boy, it was something I liked to think about, but anymore, I don’t think what interests me as a writer would be considered Oscar-worthy. And I’m all right with that.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
I don’t think my work will ever make it to the screen, but I’ll never stop trying, because I don’t know what else to do
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good actor/director/screenplayer?
The absolute necessary ingredient to be a good director and screenwriter is the passion and enthusiasm for creativity in film. The film director should insist on originality and pursuit the goodness of life no matter how hard life is. He can transform the bitterness, unfortune and suffering of life into the beauty of art and kindness of human nature.
First and last cinematographic crush?
The first time I enjoyed King Kong (directed by John Guillermin) in 1976 with my mother when I was 3 years old. So that my mother is my enlightening teacher of movie indeed. I remember that I cried in the movie theatre as I felt King Kong was real one. Later I know that it is just Hollywood SFX.
How old you were when you decided you wanted to be an actor/director/screenplayer?
It is about 16 years old when I was enthusiastic to become media professional. At that I was interested in drama, writing script and even direct a small drama show, then I decided to study film in my undergraduate studies. I enjoyed making film as it is a journey of creativity and self-fulfillment.
For you a Film is...
For me, a film is life, and life is full of uncertainty and surprise, happiness and sadness. People must walk on life journey and experience what it will happen.
What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?
I feel full of energy and passion, especially the unconditional support of the whole team. I cherish the moment when every film crews just wanna to accomplish the simple goal, making a good film.
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 like to watch Titanic with my favorite filmmaker “ Sergei Eisenstein” as he is the greatest soviet filmmaker and theorist in the world. I especially respect he devotes teaching in his later career after his greatest success of Battleship Potemkin in 1925.
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?
In movie world, nothing is impossible, we can create the whole new world in movie world, transcend the time and place, overcome the most difficulty in our last breath and hope. The only limitation is our imagination.
Can you live just of your passion?
Yes, people can live just of the passion, as passion can drive on positive energy and action to pursuit people’s dream.
What's more important talent or luck?
Ans: both talent and luck are equally important, people without talent can not be successful when luck comes. And people with talent can also not be successful if luck never comes.
You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...
At that scenario, I would bring Cast Away with me, to feel empathetic and encouragement from what Tom Hanks does in the movie.
Have you ever accepted a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?
Yes, I regard it as a kind training or a chance to explore my scope of capability.
What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?
People who never know me but enjoy my movie and are naturally moved by my movies and story.
Are you satisfied about your career?
I am fully satisfied about my career, I enjoy teaching youngers about convergent media and communication technology in School of Communication in The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong. Our students are extremely talented and they are the brilliant hope of future media industry.
Do you have a good luck charm?
My wife is my luck charm, I love my wife wholeheartedly!
Which is the worst moment on set ?
I feel every moment on set is still beautiful even though some situation or difficulties are really like the disaster.
How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?
I would surely miss the teammates working so hard together to make a good movie in sacrifice of personal family time, health and matter. And I hope the movie can be awarded to give recognition to the film crew as reward.
Have you ever lied to get a job?
No, I never lies to get a job.
If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to…
If I win an Oscar, my mother is my first enlightening teacher who bring me to watch the first movie in my life. And my wife and my son must be accompanied with me.
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
Drama with quirkiness and radicalism!
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
A bit of both
Which is the best Moment on set?
Getting it in the can
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
Many times!
How can you stay focused on your goal?
Self-discipline and self-awareness. This autumn I have spent some time with a professional coach reviewing my life, work and goals, both creating new ones and redefining and refreshing others.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
Not a breakdown exactly but a substantial period of burn out and emotional pain, which was resolved by leaving Scandinavia, where I’d lived nearly 20 years, to return to the UK. I studied my Masters in Choreography in London, my home town, at 50 (!) and then moved to the North East, where I formed a dance company. It took years to sort out life, personal and professional and all that that entails.
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
Talent is about curiosity, imagination, drive and work, so is mostly a blessing, but can be overwhelming without some support and guidance on how best to use it!
What would you like to improve about yourself as an actor/director/screenplayer?
As I’m primarily a performer, educator, choreographer now in my 70s I’d say Director and actor.
What's the worst critic you have received?
It was a mess.’ About a show and ‘No, I don’t care’ about my company.
If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?
I’m actually a dancer/performer, educator, choreographer and consider myself an emerging Director and actor!
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
Not one colour but it’d definitely include red.
A day without a movie is..
A day to dance and think ahead
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?
Almost certainly not, but it does depend exactly what it is and what the role would be…You never know what opportunity and fate can bring.
What's your greatest ambition?
My child’s continuing health and happiness and the realisation of my next and very ambitious project, which includes film, live performance and immersive technology.
What's your biggest fear?
Not to get it done!
Does music helps you to play/direct, write?
As primarily a choreographer, my life is very much steered by music, from classical composers such as Beethoven and Stravinsky through to Japanese white noise. My relationship to music is close and intimate.
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?
To move, to dance, to be is life, even with the dark side.
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar....
I quite simply can’t believe I’m here! It’s been a long road, but my goodness it’s been worth it. I certainly didn’t start out my life wanting to be a filmmaker, so it makes it even more extraordinary, overwhelming and exciting.
Thank you to every-one, from those who pushed and cajoled me, to those who simply loved me and those who had words of love and support and a coffee ready, when I flagged. And of-course to my wonderful, wonderful child.
Thank you for this award and recognition.
When did you know you wanted to be an actor, director, or screenwriter?
I knew I wanted to be a director and screenwriter when I was in a kindergarten play
How did your family react?
They were very supportive.
Do you have a muse or role model?
Park Chan-wook Bong Joon-Ho
Who are your biggest fans?
Quentin Jerome Tarantino
What inspires you the most?
Daydream
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
Song Ju-yeon
Have you ever seen a movie that is better than a book?
나쁜 남자 김기덕
What movie taught you the most?
Pulp Fiction
Have you ever wanted to quit everything about your artistic career?
NO
What excites you the most during a shoot?
When I have to overcome an unexpected accident.
And what scares you the most?
Nothing scares me.
What is your next project?
A film about the underworld of young people, about the necessity of the body and parallel worlds.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who will you choose?
I create my own career.
Actors, directors and screenwriters are made of...
I am made of pencils and erasers
For you a film is...
A four-dimensional puzzle
Do you think black and white films have a strong impact?
I think so.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
NO
Do you think you could win one?
Yes, if I want to win it.
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
I enjoy both equally. Comedy Is always a good way to win down and relax,
but I also enjoy getting into a really good drama.
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
That's a tough one, from what I've seen in life so far, it seems to be a bit of a dance. One inspires the other. They go back and forth.
Which is the best Moment on set?
I enjoy the moments of laughter between filming. The times when you can talk and laugh with the people around you.
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
Definitely, but I never let it stop me. Especially when it comes to my art, I've always had people look down at it. My brother was a natural at drawing so it came easily but I've always had to work hard to achieve my goals.
How can you stay focused on your goal?
That's a hard process, but like a muscle, the more you do it, the more you
train your brain to stay focused the easier it gets.
Writing down my goals always helped.Keeping a constant reminder as to what I
want to achieve helps tremendously. For me, it's digital sticky notes on my desktop.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
Thank heavens, I have not. there have been tough moments though, like all
things when working it can get overwhelming, but I have an amazing support system of family and friends I can go to for help.
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
I think it depends on your understanding of it. Talent without humility can be a curse. If you don't understand how difficult it could be for someone who has no natural talent, and instead works hard with skill then it could be a curse.
But I think talent is inherently a blessing.
What would you like to improve about yourself as a director/screenplayer?
I'm always trying to improve my writing and directing skills. I think with writing I'm always trying to improve my dialogue choices. and with directing it's every! haha, always trying to up my game, in every department.
What's the worst critic you have received?
I wrote a script for a story I want to complete called Autonomy and I sent it into a screenwriting competition for feedback, and it was completely torn apart. The person even said they thought the name didn't fit, and that every aspect of the story needed to be changed. It was pretty rough.
If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?
I've always thought carpentry would be fun to try out. something physical like that, or even sculpting.
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
A Rainbow. Every genre of cinema could be broken down into a color I think, but the whole of it would look like a rainbow if you could see it. Or like the rainbow prisms make when they refract light.
A day without a movie is...
A beautiful day still. But, I do prefer a good story!
If someone offered you to direct/write a movie that you despise but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?
I think about this a lot and truly, I don't know yet. and times I would have said yes, but now, I feel the answer would be no. I'd want whatever I work on, to be something I, at least, am okay with, but if I despise it, I definitely couldn't bring myself to do it.
What's your greatest ambition?
That's a tough one, I don't know. I think, to make a big impact on people, but only if it's positive.
What's your biggest fear?
That's tough to say, it changes, but maybe, to not be loved. Even by myself.
Does music help you to direct, write?
For me, music comes first in the creative process, I usually get my best ideas
while listening to music.
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?
I honestly don't know. I'd really have to think about this one. but I love the idea of telling stories without words. visuals only. and trying to communicate complex ideas with that medium is quite the challenge. I'll have to think about it for a while.
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
"To my parents who raised me, guided me, and showed me how to live a life full of love and appreciation for all but also how to chase after my dreams, I thank you. This award is not just for me but for them. and to my friends who at every turn stayed with me and encouraged me to do great things. This award is also for you. thank you all, for if it was not you in my life, I would not be here in this moment, at this time."
When did you decide you wanted to be an actor/director/ screenplayer?
I was always into film making since I was 11 years old. I started to do my own little movies with friends from school. I never saw myself as an actor but more as a director. My son is a film director and I was an actor for some of his short movies and I enjoyed it. But I don't think I have enough talent to be a real good actor. I see myself more of a script writer because I am writing also short stories since quite a time. So in future I will write more scripts. Besides that I have also my regular job as a legal counsel.
How did your family react?
My parents always supported me in my film plans and I got also the equipment for doing it. That's why I also supported my son becoming a professional film director. However my own parents exptected me to have a regular job so I became a lawyer and did not choose film making as my only profession.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
Well of course I grew up with movies in the 80's and these films had a great influence on my own work. I admire the films from Spielberg, Lucas, Zemeckis and so on.
Who's your biggest fan?
Probaly my dog Luna. But that's because I give her food and play with her.
I am not sure if I even have a biggest fan. So far my family is happy with my work but I would not claim, that they are my biggest fans. Maybe with my scripts there will be somebody in the future, who knows.
What brings you inspiration the most?
I am most inspired by real life stories. This gives me ideas for my own stories. I am not inspired by fiction books because there is little left for your own ideas. As I am now more into script writing I don't want to adpapt already existing books, but develop and write my own story.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
As I grew up in the 80's with movies my dream director would be of course Steven Spielberg. When I saw his Super 8 Films when he was a kid that remember me how I started making films.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
I think that the Harry Potter movies were better than the books. The casting was so good that they really did a better job.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
This is a difficult question. I would say that Duel from Spielberg had a great influence on my work. This film is so well done and the story is very simple but also very interesting. This is the kind of movie I would like to do.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
No never. Because I have also a regular job I keep loving my artistic career very much.
On set what excites you the most?
The work with the actors. To be in an ongoing dialogue with them on how to shoot the perfect scene. Only at that moment you realize how good your script is and whether it really works on set. The script becomes alive with real people and your job as a director is to facilitate this transformation from written words to real life acting. This process is unique and also challenging. But if you succeed and the scene was perfect then this excites me the most.
And what scares you the most ?
That a scene from the script does not work when shooting. At this moment it is very difficult to make any changes because this would affect the whole film. So this really scares me but fortuntaley this does not happen very often. If it's happening then the best thing is to try to make only very small changes to the script and hoping that it will work. If you have a good actor he or she can save the script by doing small changes in acting.
What's your next project?
I am currently trying to find a producer for my script "Machliar". My next project will be a new script about a science fiction topic but I am not yet sure what it will be excatly. I am very much into quantum physics and the weird stuff around this topic so I will try to write a story that will take into account the latest findings on this matter. It could be a very crazy story because quantum physics seem to be very crazy like multiverse and the question about our ultimate reality on a quantum level where everything seems to be just a wave function and nothing is real or solid.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
I would not steal any career of any artist because every artist is unique and have its own unique life with every up and downs. For example I am a big fan of Michael J. Fox but I would not steal his career or want to live his life.
An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....
A lot of creativity, work, dedication, energy and the passion for film making.
For you Cinema is....
Just pure magic ! It is another world you can enter and experience any adventure you are looking for without beeing in any danger. Cinema is a place where you can forget for two hours the world outside and just be in the moment of the movie. This is just wonderful.
Doyou think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
Of course in the beginning there were only black and white movies so they had a powerful impact on the following movies. Even with the beginnging of colour movies they were still black and white movies made and they had their own charme. The third man by Orson Welles is a black and white movie that would look completely different in colour and would maybe loose its magic.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
Yes, that would be just wonderful. It would be the biggest honour I could possibly receive in the capital of film making.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
I am not thinking about it. I try to focus on my movies and do the best work I can. If this would lead to an Oscar that would be of course amazing but this is not the motivation for me doing movies or writing scripts. I want to entertain people with interesting stories and hoping that they will like it.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good director/screenplayer?
I think having something to say is a very important part of being an artist. Having a clear image of what you are trying to do and communicating that image to the team you are working with. Able to accept advice and criticism, also important
First and last cinematographic crush?
I love German expressionism and French surrealist cinema. So films like Un Chien Andalou And Faust (1926) some of my favourites
How old you were when you decided you wanted to be a director/screenplayer?
I never wanted to be a filmmaker something I fell in when I was 30 years old and I loved the whole process I love telling stories visually
For you a Film is...
For me a film is a message from the artist to an audience. Film is a medium a filmmaker can use it to express a feeling a concept or to visually tell a story
What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?
My films are kind of experimental I never use the same technique twice to tell a story. So the first thing when I am making a film I will be learning a new technique so that excites me. The 2nd thing I am always trying to see things from an audience point of view.
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?
One of my favourite directors is Robert Rodriguez I would love the chance to see how he approaches his film making process. And watch with him From Dusk till Dawn
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?
Kind of true. But we should have realistic appreciation of our own abilities
Can you live just of your passion?
Impossible to answer. Passion is very important in life but also having specific goals and try to achieve them is as important
What's more important talent or luck?
Both are needed. Talent and being technically ready when luck turn up is important
You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...
Un Chien Andalou
Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?
Yes I did and it is very important for the development of a film maker is to go through different type of situations. That taught me good lessons.
What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?
For your film to be selected by a festival is a huge honour to win an award is a huge compliment and an amazing feeling a recognition of what you are trying to achieve.
Are you satisfied about your career?
I make films that highlight injustice or point the light on a particular issue i happen to notice. When my films get screened to audiences gives a huge satisfaction with what I am doing .
Do you have a good luck charm?
Not really. But I feel my parents spirits look after me
Which is the worst moment on set ?
When you did a whole day of filming and technical issue ruined the whole process. I had to confront the whole crew and Actors and say we have to go through that all over again. trust in your director is very important to pull a crew together to produce good work, very difficult if the team loose that trust
How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?
It is a good feeling for me. Means that the vision you set out to achieve is close and we are about to share it with the rest of the world.
Have you ever lied to get a part/job?
Never.
If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to…
My son and mum and dad
When did you decide you wanted to be a director?
I never really decided. It was an organic progression. I studied film in college but left to run around Europe for a few years, trying to find my way as a painter and playing Rock & Roll. When I woke up a few years later, I was studying to become a novelist in San Francisco. As I worked my way East to New York, about as far away from Hollywood as you can get, I moved from novels to screenplays, and here I am.
How did your family react?
My parents passed away long ago, so I had no family to react to it.
Do you have a Muse?
Yes. Next Question.
What brings you inspiration the most?
Stories of human drama, but not grandiose drama. I want to film something to which everyone can relate. If you get too extravagant, you turn a drama into a thriller, and all subtlety is lost. My storylines may be over-the-top, but the problems confronted are something everyone can understand and make their own.
Which actors would you like to work with?
The ones I'm working with.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
I don't think it's a fair comparison. In literature, like cinema, you need a… 'viewer,' someone to interact with what you've created to complete the creative process… the circle. But in cinema, the interaction is passive. Literature is the only art in which the final representation of the artist's intention exists in the reader's imagination. The book, novel, and story… it's a set of instructions for the reader to construct whatever image they wish in their mind's eye. So there will always be a bias in the experience.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
Maybe one of those sex-ed films in high school? But seriously, taught me in what way? As a filmmaker, as a person… spiritually, intellectually, philosophically? Answering as a filmmaker, I'm going to cheat and say not "a" film but the collected works of Yasujirō Ozu.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
I have, time and time again and reinvented myself. Let's hope I got it right this time.
On set, what excites you the most?
Capturing that spark of a performance that expresses what cannot be conveyed simply from words on a script.
And what scares you the most?
That which I've let fail my imagination. The event, the malfunction, the obstacle that I never considered. Every film… check that… every shoot is s learning experience in problem-solving. I don't want to come off as this arrogant bore, but I'm very confident in my communication and organizational abilities, so I'm never going to be that taken aback onset unless an actual disaster occurs.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire. Whom do you choose?
Just one? I'd say, Pablo Picasso. Possibly the most creative man to ever live. But again, I'll cheat and make a hybrid of Picasso, Lou Reed, and Andrei Tarkovsky. Come to think of it, they all may be the same person. I take it all back, Serge Gainsbourg.
A director is made of...
I can't go there. That's too ostentatious for me to take seriously. Keep organized, communicate without pretense with your cast and crew, and don't obsess over gear, and you're probably 99% ahead of everyone else in the game.
For you cinema is...
A way of life.
Do you think black-and-white movies have a powerful impact?
Are you asking because a film is black and white, it has more impact? Depends on the film, depends on the scene. It's a tool, and used in the right hands, it has its place. The opening shots of "Manhattan" are some of the most beautiful images of New York City ever photographed. Would they not be as striking in color? Potentially, but not merely because of the absence of color. Much more goes into the shot, focal length, saturation, lighting… you can't just roll off the color to create mood. I love the black and white at the end of "If…" by Lindsey Anderson. It turns out the production ran out of money and could only afford black and white to finish the film.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
I have no interest whatsoever. If it happens, it happens, but I'm not going to work each day with Oscar as the carrot at the end of my stick.
What's your next project?
I'm working on a dramatic comedy, Chasing Rainbows, about a young comedian that has to overcome an overbearing mentor to reach her potential. It stars Bill Funt, the son of Candid Camera creator Allen Funt, and a brilliant young up-and-coming actress, Keeley Shantz. Stylistically it's much in the vein of the Coen Brothers and Wes Anderson.
What's the absolutely necessary ingredient to be a good screenwriter?
Perseverance.
First and last cinematographic crush?
First, “El Topo”/Alejandro Jodorowsky. Last, “ELVIS” / Baz Luhrmann. Inspired by Alejandro Jodorowsky’s Graphic Novel THE INCAL, illustrated by Jean Giraud (Mobius).
How old were you when you decided you wanted to be a screenwriter?
I started to study playwriting when I was eighteen (George Bernard Shaw influenced). I became a professional photographer and switched to screenplays a few years later as I am visual and wanted to make stories I could film.
For you a Film is...
Magic!
What do you feel when you're screenwriting?
I do a lot of research and preparation, which I really enjoy, such as; what makes a person depressed, self-destructive, greedy, vain, selfish, etc.. Thank you Internet and Psychology Today!
I enjoy outlining, and I enjoy holding myself back. There is always a desire to begin writing the script before you have a solid structure. I try to stick to the Mini-Movie-Method, ( 8 Acts instead of 3). I use this for Feature and Short Scripts. I create a loose outline and then ask myself questions, such as where can I increase conflict, add a twist, use a more unique location, and what am I really trying to say? Then I relax. I read screenplays or work on creating a Poster or even a Trailer while I wait for the answers to bubble up from my subconscious. This is the most fun because the answers always surprise me and are much better than what I could achieve by just brainstorming. If you train yourself to take the extra time, it becomes a superpower!
You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenwriter that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with whom are you going to watch it?
I would choose APOCALYPSE NOW with MARLON BRANDO.
Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?
She wouldn’t have said it... if it wasn’t true.
Can you live on just your passion?
It’s worked so far.
What's more important talent or luck?
Luck is created with your Talent.
10. You must go to a desert island and you can bring just one movie with you. What do you choose?
E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial
Have you ever accepted a script to write even if you didn't like the project?
Yes. I find that I learn the most when I leave my comfort zone.
What's the best compliment you have received about your screenwriting?
It’s out of this world!
Are you satisfied with your career?
My career has been extremely creative and has taken me places I never dreamed of!
Do you have a good luck charm?
I carry a small quartz crystal to cleanse my vibration.
Which is the worst moment on set?
There are none.
How do you feel when a job you've been part of is ending?
Grateful for the opportunity and all I experienced.
Have you ever lied to get a job?
No. I have Instant Karma.
If you should win an Oscar your first thought would go to...
All the people who have supported my efforts on this path. Thank You!
When did you decide you wanted to be a director/ screenplayer?
I was always deeply fascinated by and in love with cinema from when I was very young. But the real epiphany happened in November of 1991 when I saw Terminator 2 at the movie theatre.
How did your family react?
My family, especially my parents, have always been very supportive. My dad is himself very interested in art and culture and was himself a great still photographer. Many great bonding moments, especially between my dad I, happened over movies - including the time when we saw Terminator 2 together.
Do you have a Muse or a Role Model?
Maybe not so much a Muse or Role Model but certain people definitely inspire me. It's typically directors who have made, and are making, the movies that I grew up with and still enjoy today. It is also directors who make the kind of movies that I aspire to make. Christopher Nolan, Martin Scorsese, Michael Mann, Ridley Scott and not least Stanley Kubrick are directors who always have, and still do, inspire me. Arnold Schwarzenegger always inspired me because of how he was this kid from a small town in Europe who dreamed of one day moving to, and finding success in, America, which was one-to-one what I dreamed of from an early age.
From outside the world of cinema, Bruce Springsteen has always inspired me with his ability to tell stories and entertain and build his music around a strong personality and his own upbringing. How he, especially in the early stages of his career, found so much inspiration in the people and environment around him and built fictitious characters in his songs from his imaginative, creative and precise perceptions of those people and their relationships.
Who's your biggest fan?
I have a very big fan in Germany. He has seen all my films and is always avidly and highly enthusiastically praising them.
What brings you inspiration the most?
Relationships and hardships of people. It can be something I hear about or people I know who go through tough or trying times -- there are a lot of stories in those lives. Aspirational stories about the loner, the underdog, the outsider who fights for survival - physical or spiritual, and sometimes both - in an inspired cinematic world, always had a particularly strong grip in me.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
Timothee Chalamet. He is a very courageous actor and has great versatility. And he has a strong, while often understated, screen presence matched with a strong degree of detail in his acting. I think he is an acting genius. I see him as a kind of a young Al Pacino, although with a complete style of his own.
Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?
That's a good one. I can't actually think of one off the top of my head, but there is a Danish movie from 2004 called KING'S GAME which is a very accomplished political thriller that in many ways set a new standard, one that hasn't really been met since, for Danish political thrillers. It is based on a book that I haven't read but I'm pretty sure that the film is better than the book. I also think some of Scorsese's movies like GOODFELLAS and CASINO could potentially be better than the books upon which they are based. But again, in fairness, I haven't read those books.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
I have learned so many different things from so many different movies. In some cases you learn about what actors can do if well directed. In other cases you learn about writing dialogue. And some movies teach and inspire you to understand story structure better and how to challenge and test the concept of time and timelines in storytelling. But the aforementioned experience of watching TERMINATOR 2 is probably the one film that brought most of this together: A blockbuster action-thriller with perfect visual storytelling, cutting-edge CGI, great performances, a storyline where time is bend and played with, all done to tell a story about the power of love and the father-son relationship. It touched me personally on the deepest level since it was the movie that made me realize the truth about my sexuality after falling in love with Edward Furlong.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
No. It's a tough business and the road is long and you'll run into hundreds of dead ends and disappointments -- but I always knew that it would be that way. But I have had small successes along the way and worked with really talented, smart and accomplished people in front of and behind the camera in both Denmark and the U.S., and all that has kept me going, and still does. I still find new ideas and stories that I want to explore and I have a lot of movies that I want to make.
On set what excites you the most?
I am actually the type of director who loves to be on set. One of the things that always fascinated me the most about filmmaking is the machinery and all the moving parts, and of course what you can do with it. Spending time, and getting really close, with the actors and the DP is extremely exciting and enjoyable for me. Being on set is the only time during the entire process of making a movie where most of the creative people are together in one place and that creates a really amazing, high-energy environment where ideas flow. It is also extremely hands-on and due to the time pressure decision making has an immediacy that is both scary and a lot of fun. On set is also where all the hard work that came before to make a movie, for the first time, becomes something that looks and feels like a movie -- that moment when you do the first take of the first setup and the actors make everything come alive for the first time, is a soul-stirring moment.
And what scares you the most ?
I really try not to be scared and very rarely am scared on set. Being scared, or stressed out, doesn't get your creative juices flowing and doesn't inspire confidence -- and you need that very much as a director. But what I always try to be very mindful of, and which sometimes freaks me out a little, is the fear of saying something stupid, especially to the actors, that will make lose respect for and confidence in me. That will send you straight to director's jail and that can be a difficult place to work your way back from. To the best of my knowledge, that has never really happened to me.
What's your next project?
I have sci-fi action-thriller that I am trying to put together and also a dark action-crime thriller. I am also brushing up on a pilot for a TV series.
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
Christopher Nolan. Although his movies have definitely not all been equally flawless and strong, he nonetheless makes movies that entertain on the biggest possible cinematic scale and also makes people think and ask questions.
An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....
Perseverance, courage and patience.
For you Cinema is....
Larger than life.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
As with any style or aesthetic, I think that for the right type of project and story black and white can work. There is a starkness and simple beauty to the black and white image that is desirable and impactful. but again, the project and story have to be right for it.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
Yes. But it is not my first concern or ambition. Making movies that find a big and diverse audience through excellent storytelling and universality in their themes is much more interesting and appealing to me.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
I might someday.
When did you decide you wanted to be a screenwriter?
In 2015, I was watching a movie with my son, and I tend to see the errors in a scene. I mentioned it to my son and he told me I should go to film school for script supervisor. I thought about it for two minutes, went online and inquired about it at New York Film Academy in Los Angeles. They called me the next day and told me I had to take the Filmmaking Program. I just wanted to take the Script Supervisor part of it, but they told me to start out with the two month Filmmaking Program. I signed up that day and three months later, packed up my Jeep and drove to Los Angeles (24 hour drive) and tarted the program. By the end of the program, I did not want to be a Script Supervisor, but wanted to write and direct. I have so many scripts and synopsis started, and finished this short script, and now time to make it into a short film.
How did your family react?
My family and friends were behind me one hundred percent. My friend, Elena, has always encouraged me to go explore what’s out there and follow my heart. My two adult sons, also have told me to “Go for it!”. My oldest son, who took acting classes, will be casted in my feature film.
What brings you inspiration the most?
"Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire” and “you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” are quotes that inspire me. People also inspire me; listening to people’s stories of where and why, they are where they are today. Sitting beside a large body of water also inspires me.
Which actor or director would you like to work with?
Denzel Washington, Jamie Foxx, Halle Berry and Julia Roberts are on my dream cast list. I have a few feature films I am writing, and they are on the top of the list to play the roles. I would also love to co-write with all of them.
What's the movie that taught you the most?
Hidden Figures taught me the most about overcoming barriers in spite of skin colour and gender. Taraji P. Henson nailed that role, along with Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monae. My favourite part of the movie, is when Katherine Johnson came back from the washroom, and Kevin Costner’s character asked why it took her so long. She gave her explanation and the next thing he is doing is hammering down the sign.
About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?
I have never wanted to give up; I know I would have regrets. I have stories to tell, and I envision them on the screen. I look forward, not backwards.
On set what excites you the most?
On set, directing excites me the most.; working with actors makes my heart beat faster.; working with actors who love their craft.
And what scares you the most ?
What scares me the most about being on set would be not knowing everything the seasoned directors know, but that’s why I would love to co-direct.
What's your next project?
My next project is completing my feature film script and getting it on the screen. It’s a script, that many have told me, that needs to be on the screen.
An actor/director/screenwriter is made of....
An actor/director/screenwriter are all visionaries and have the ambition and drive, and go after what sets their souls on fire.
For you Cinema is....
For me, as a screenwriter, Cinema is an expression of my mind. Many things that have happened in my life, give me the ideas of many of my scripts; my mind is always creating.
Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?
I love black and white movies, it’s a feeling of nostalgia. Seeing a movie in black and white makes and takes me back in time.
Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?
I had a stranger tell me, when we first met “When you are walking the red carpet, I want you to wear something elegant, no frills. You are going to win an Oscar for your feature film script”. We became friends, and he told me every time we saw each other, to go after it. I had also told someone about the script, and his reply “That’s an Oscar winning script”.
Do you think you're gonna win it?
Yes, I think I am going to win an Oscar. It’s a great feature film script, and when I get my dream cast, it will be perfect!
You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
I’m not an actress, but, I would love to have Halle Berry’s career. She is so dynamic, diverse, and so down to earth and lovely, and she has won an Oscar!
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
Comedy
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
Arts comes with life, so life imitates art…
Which is the best Moment on set?
When you check the actual footage of the scene and realize how good it is…
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
For sure someone did but people say a lot o things
How can you stay focused on your goal?
Working on them…
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
Just momentary breakdowns, allways focus on the big picture…
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
There is a loto of talent people in the world, you can have talent to coppy someones work, the real talent is the perseverance, you must keep working because talent is very common among people…
What would you like to improve about yourself as an
actor/director/screenplayer?
I would love to have more time and resources for my films.
What's the worst critic you have received?
No idea
If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?
Pastry chef
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
Red
A day without a movie is...
A good day
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, you must be professional
What's your greatest ambition?
Self improvement
What's your biggest fear?
To be regreaful of things i didnt do or try
Does music helps you to play/direct, write?
No, my mind goes to other places with music
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the
audience?
Enjoy what we have
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
I´ll write it when i win it
Do you prefer Comedy or Drama?
That’s dependent on my mood, but I think a bit of comedy can definitely enhance the experience of drama and make the film appeal to a broader audience that otherwise might not have been interested in the film. One of my films: Charlie Russell: The Story of a Naked Man incorporates both – there’s a serious message about self-discovery and confidence, but the comedy helps the film to appeal to a broader audience or else it’d been boring – a miserable man being grumpy for ten minutes until he realises himself and is no longer grumpy. The comedy takes us on a journey with him and helps us all to laugh together in his situation making it much more relatable to more people. That said there are films where comedy simply doesn’t work. There’s a film called ‘The Hunt’ starring Mads Mikkelsen that was all about the reality of being falsely accused of a crime and it was really powerful. So I don’t think I have a preference towards one or the other as such, it’s completely dependent on what I feel like watching at the moment I choose to put a movie on.
Life imitates Art or Art imitates Life?
Both. If I had to choose one, I’d have to say art imitates life more so than the other way around since art could not exist without life. That said, humans borrow so much of their conscious and unconscious behaviour from what we’ve seen on TV and read in books, so these days, I’d have to say it’s 50/50. Film has this incredible power to change human beings, make them appreciate their life, wake them up to social problems and what we take for granted by just watching the rites of passage of a created character – but that character is likely inspired by a real-life person themselves.
Which is the best Moment on set?
There are so many. The best moment for me is kind of an oxymoron because I enjoy shooting so much and never want it to end – but it’s probably when filming’s wrapped, everyone applauds and gives each other a hug – that’s the best feeling, because it’s the most gratifying – everyone’s worked so hard and you really feel that sense of accomplishment and love for those around you, that family you’ve spent a week, a month, a year working with feeling so happy that you’ve accomplished the really difficult task of making a movie you’re all so passionate about with.
Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?
Yeah, loads of times and I thank them every day for it. Harsh criticism makes you thick-skinned, which is something you need not just as a filmmaker, but in life in general. Without being thick-skinned, how can you have those difficult conversations with all the people who don’t agree with you or the hateful people in the world today that try to cancel you and ruin your life for saying something they didn’t personally like? You have to power through without letting it get you down. When me and my composer Hayden made a comedy web series about eleven years ago, the ratio of comments was significantly more negative than positive. People told us to give up pretty much on the daily and we never, ever did. Now the movies we work on together are internationally award-winning. Without the harsh critics, I genuinely don’t think I would have had the drive to prove to people what I’m capable of behind a camera. So, I really am thankful for being told day in, day out that I wasn’t good enough, because all it really told me eventually, is that I was.
How can you stay focused on your goal?
When so determined to meet a goal, that becomes the focus of my life until it’s achieved. I believe that if you fail to stay focused on a goal you’ve told yourself you have, then you’re not really that ambitious about it. If you’re not prepared to put in the work to achieve the goal, you don’t really want it. So, passion and determination is what drives me to complete the goal. The Village 3 took about a year to make from writing to release and, for that year, making that movie was my goal.
Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?
A breakdown, no, but I have found myself questioning if I’m going in the right direction a few times. The industry can be very competitive and you feel that taking a toll on you as you try to push your way into it. You wonder whether or not it’s everything you thought it was going to be, so I had a bit of an identity crisis when I was in university. Ultimately, I discovered that I was indeed exactly where I belonged in the film industry after I began a teacher training course and dropped out because I realised early on it was absolutely not for me. I lacked the drive I thought I had when I was accepted onto the course - something just did not feel right about it from the very start. And because of my life being consumed by that, I realised what was missing: filmmaking. So, I left and went back to filmmaking and re-discovered my passion; I do not regret that decision at all – sometimes you just need to experience something like that to really be sure of yourself. I still enjoy teaching, I run a weekly filmmaking class for young people called the Prop Box Filmmakers Academy, an off-shoot of Prop Box Youth Theatre through which I directed the first two Village films and I’m forever grateful to Caroline and Sarah and the great students at the class for giving me the opportunity to do so. However, unlike teaching in a school, it’s a very comfortable environment where I can teach my own syllabus and it doesn’t require practically giving up a social life and personal projects to pursue. So, that’s probably the closest I’ve come to a breakdown because of my job.
Talent is a blessing or a curse?
It’s a blessing. It could only be a curse if you use it the wrong way like the many famous people who unfortunately find themselves going down a self-destructive path for various reasons – maybe the wealth and being able to afford dangerous and addictive substances or just the stress of being in the public eye. But no, I think it’s absolutely a blessing being able to release something from your brain and grab other people’s attention because of it – that’s not something everybody can say they’re able to do.
What would you like to improve about yourself as a director/actor/screenplayer?
Sometimes us directors fall into the trap of getting so wrapped up in capturing the perfect shot for a scene that we lose track of time. My shoots have never had the benefit of having loads of time. The first Village was shot in two days, the second in three days and third had four days (although Village 3 was the only one without consecutive shoot days), so there have been times where I’ve spent too long on a particular scene or shot and that means not having as much time to spend on other scenes, so, although most of the time we’re good with the time-keeping I’d rather know for sure we’ve left enough time to get it all done.
As for writing, and I tried to do exactly this with The Village 3 since I felt it was lacking somewhat in the first two films, is create more in-depth characters. The Village 3 had a smaller cast which allowed room for the characters to grow more before we got to the carnage. All the films in the franchise are slasher horrors with elements of drama, but the first two focused a bit more on the splatter violence and less on the drama, but the new one swaps that around, which has been quite positively received. So, I think in future screenplays, I’ll stay focused on character development with smaller casts.
As for acting, I feel I’m more of a writer-director than an actor – I’m really in the new film because we struggled to find the right actor for Officer Redfield and having written probably the most complex character in the franchise, I knew how I wanted him to behave and new it’d be fun, so I took on the role myself, but never really intended to when writing it. I think if I act again, I’ll have to get better at learning my lines, because there was a fair few times during editing, I was getting frustrated with myself because there was a great take and then I’d have to stop to remember my lines halfway through and ruin it.
What's the worst critic you have received?
They say you are your own worst critic. I have a habit of saying that looks awful or something to that effect whenever anything looks slightly off. It doesn’t help that I edit most of my own stuff, so I kick myself when I see something not quite right and I didn’t think to do it a different way on set. Actually, I suppose it does help because I know for next time. Of course, we have plenty of banter on set, none of which any of us take to heart – I think it was Charlie, one of the sound recordists and cinematographers on the set of The Village 3 that told me my policeman’s outfit made me look like a stripper, so if you haven’t watched the film yet or next time you do, try not to think about that. We all laughed our heads off, we have a great time on set, but in all seriousness, I think my worst critics except myself were the aforementioned people that told me and Hayden our web series we made at like eleven to fourteen years old was awful – there really were some scathing remarks that are far too sweary to repeat here, but as I said, I actually look at it in a positive light – not that I particularly encourage it, I think constructive criticism is a much nicer way to give feedback, but those who scream obscenities about your work and tell you to kill yourself will always be around – this is the age of the internet and hiding behind computer screens, you might as well just embrace it.
If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?
It’s all I’ve ever wanted to be really, so that’s a particularly tough question. I don’t have any skills in it really, but a record producer or DJ sounds fun. I love a concert, so being able to perform and having my art out there in a different format would be awesome. As a gamer, I often find myself thinking ‘how would I have done this’ when playing, so being a game designer or a play tester would be up my ally too.
If Cinema was a color what would it be?
A rainbow. It’s such a diverse medium that it couldn’t be condensed down to one colour. I guess white since that is the shade we get when lots of colours are mixed together. If red represents horror, purple is romance, etc. the mixture into cinema as a whole would be white.
A day without a movie is...
A day when I’ve been very busy. For me, I never really have a day without a movie even when I haven’t physically watched one since I’m always thinking about movies, both existent and non-existent. I see my life as a movie and occasionally, something in that movie of my life I’ll pick to make a physical movie out of. I never stop looking for inspiration.
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?
If I truly believed the movie was hopeless then no. If I’m not loving the process or what we’re working towards, we’re not doing it right, so something needs to change. However, someone clearly truly believes that this movie can work if it will make us rich and if they were open to compromise and changing the film into something I did like, then I would consider it. If we were to work together to create something that everyone, creators and audience will love from a bad first draft I probably would. I really believe in salvaging things even if the final product bears little to no resemblance to the final product.
What's your greatest ambition?
My greatest ambition is to be the director of at least one widely released theatrical film – a horror film perhaps, but not necessarily. That will be when I know I have officially achieved my dream. Maybe one day someone could come along and help us with funding a feature-length adaptation of The Village franchise...
What's your biggest fear?
My biggest fear is failure. If I fail, I have faltered somewhere along the lines of my set rules to never give up until I achieve the intended goal. That fear is what drives me to always create the best film possible and never give up.
Does music helps you to play/direct, write?
Depends what I’m writing. If it’s horror, I might put on a film or game soundtrack in the background like Akira Yamaoka’s Silent Hill soundtracks. It’s such a diverse sound – some tracks are creepy, others are more emotional. If I’m writing characters, I’ll put on the emotional stuff, if it’s a scary scene, something more tense. If I’m writing a drama, I might listen to silence or if I need emotional inspiration, I might put on a song or album that matches the emotion – I like Lana Del Rey’s music, that’s definitely been on in the background of the writing process a few times. If it’s a comedy, I might put on some silly club music or even just a YouTube video or documentary for some background noise and when I take a ten second break to actually listen to what the TV or music’s saying, I might suddenly find some inspiration right there.
Acting and directing, sometimes – music doesn’t help so much with my directing style, but can create images in my head of what I want when it comes to creating a set, a shot or atmosphere. With acting, sometimes I do discover the emotion I need through listening to a particular song or piece of music, but I tend to take inspiration from other TV shows and films more so than music for acting and directing – writing, music does very often help though.
You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the
audience?
I have made a few silent movies in my time – in fact my favourite film I ever made is called ‘Divided’, which is a silent movie. The film’s about an emotionally abusive relationship where we see what’s happening in the real world and then symbolic shots of how the protagonist is feeling. The deeper we get into the subconscious, the more elaborate and disturbing the imagery and sound gets. If I was to make another silent film, I think I’d go in a similar art house direction using non-dialogue symbolism to show how a character’s feeling. My message would be communicating how a character or maybe even real person feels in that moment which I think can often be more powerful that a film grounded in reality. Without saying too much, there’s an art house script I wrote years ago that I’m confident will make it to the screen one day that uses silent sequences to depict modern anxieties that I really want to make – it’s probably my favourite script I’ve ever written.
Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....
This is not just my Oscar. This is also everyone who’s ever helped me get to where I am today’s Oscar, because I couldn’t have done it without you. Caroline, Sarah and the students of Prop Box without the support of whom, I never would have won my first awards – not loads of people will trust you when you say you want to make a movie with a youth club that involves loads of blood, but my has it paid off? My crew – Charlie Lubbock and Hayden Davey, for putting up with my extremely demanding shooting days and the amount of energy drinks you had to consume to manage it. Anybody who I’ve ever roped into being in one of my films – you cover yourself in mud and blood and do an amazing job all for my dream without any fuss at all – Patch, I hope you’ve managed to get all the stains out of your trousers by now. And of course, my family – this Oscar is for you. Mum and dad, I’ve never doubted your belief in me and your constructive criticism has helped me improve upon every film, no matter how little. Thank you all of you.