interview

Interview with Festival Director Dave Krzysik (Brainwash Drive-In/Bike-In/Walk-In Movie Festival

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Brainwash is the original drive-in movie festival! Since 1995 they’ve delighted audiences with a selection of the bizarre, the unique, and just plain old well-made movies from independent producers all over the world. With an eye toward the abstract, the innovative and the weird, with a name like Brainwash (originally the Cacophony Short Film Video Drive-In Movies Festival), they attract entries they curate to be able to display some of the most cutting edge cinema from up and and coming directors, actors, producers and crews consistently year after year.

http://www.brainwashm.com/

Interview with Dave Krzysik:

Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Dave Krzysik: We have been working at getting wider exposure through European and domestic (US) cable TV.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

DK: Some really great and just plain weird movies. People are always out there making them, and we get our share to screen.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

DK: We have to explain this to producers sometime, and all we could ever think of was one word: “Brainwashy”. I hope that helps!

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

DK: I really have to say I think it’s fairer to approach this concept from the opposite, that a lot of movies would never get a fair shake outside of film festivals, considering the consistent state of the film industry’s concentration at the top.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

DK: I must have been born for the movies, because after 22 years doing Brainwash, it’s still fun! The other people who work on the festival are all cinephiles of a certain type, that is, they appreciate the uncommon and the off-beat, the type of movies attracted to festivals in general and those with that extra edge that come to Brainwash.

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

DK: Technology! When we started in 1995, we screened an equal amount of 16mm film and VHS tape (older readers will remember those movie mediums). Then, shifting to digital, DVDs had to be produced by special services and they were expensive. Now, so many movies are produced entirely on IPhones that it has become one of the top rated movie cameras, right up there with Panavision, Arriflex, Bolex, Canon and the rest, and we get mostly digital file downloads.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

DK: More and more exposure for the producers. We find there’s an industry that’s growing for exposing independent movies for more relevant critical acclaim and more financial benefit for the producers and promoters that I think can continue to do so.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

DK: Probably The Wizard of Oz, because it was always shown on television, and I liked it a lot, usually during the holidays when I was much younger and out of school and could watch television. But the one I like the best is 2001, A Space Odyssey, by Stanley Kubrick, although I haven’t seen it nearly as many times (yet). The Day The Earth Stood Still is another great I’ve seen a lot, on TV, and, recently, at another outdoor screening.

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

DK: What I call the economy of movement, as with Alfred Hitchcock, Federico Fellini, the afore-mentioned Stanley Kubrick (in 2001), and, one of my favorites, but obscure in the industry, George Kuchar.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

DK: Always exploding with great movies and festivals in the greater SF Bay Area, a little stunted in Oakland, itself, at the present moment.

drivein2.jpg

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Executive Director Stefanie Malone (National Film Festival for Talented Youth)

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NFFTY is the world’s largest and most influential film festival for emerging directors. In 2015, we screened 248 amazing films from the best filmmakers 24 and younger representing 30 states and 25 countries, with over 12,000 in attendance. We provide a first-class festival experience that includes four days of film screenings, parties, networking events and panels. In 2014, MovieMaker Magazine rated NFFTY as one of the top 50 festivals worth the entry fee.

NFFTY 2016 will be held in April 28 – May 1 in Seattle, WA.

http://www.nffty.org/

Interview with Stefanie Malone:

Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Stefanie Malone: NFFTY is the world’s largest and most influential film festival for emerging directors. We showcase the best new best new filmmaking talent age 24 and under. NFFTY occurs each spring in Seattle, Washington and includes over 200 film screenings from talented filmmakers and media artists from around the world. Workshops, panel discussions featuring industry professionals, and contests provide educational and networking opportunities for attendees. Filmmakers submit feature-length and short films in narrative, documentary, animation, music video, experimental, and action sport categories. It has been compared to Sundance and Cannes for young filmmakers, and we take that reputation seriously.

Many festivals tend to overlook the potential of a young filmmaker simply because of their age. NFFTY stands apart from those festivals by recognizing the creative talent these individuals really do have and providing them with a one-of-a-kind, first-class festival experience that they won’t get anywhere else. Not only do they get to screen their films to sold-out audiences of hundreds, they get to network with other young people just like them as well as top industry professionals that could help them jumpstart their careers.

I think Kevin Klauber (NFFTY filmmaker and editor of Oscar-winning documentary 20 Feet from Stardom) put it perfectly when he said, “NFFTY is overwhelmingly positive. NFFTY is a perfect test ground for what it’s like to be a filmmaker in today’s world. It’s the most positive festival I’ve ever been to in terms of encouraging creative work.”

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

SM: For starters, you’ll have a chance to see creative endeavors by the next generation of filmmakers. NFFTY is the opportunity to see the next Martin Scorsese or the next Kathryn Bigelow. At NFFTY 2016, we will feature 227 films from filmmakers in 24 countries and 33 US states. We have a variety of genres and some of the most gripping short documentaries in the world.

Opening Night is our biggest affair, kicking off at the world-renowned Cinerama with a red carpet and five short films from NFFTY filmmakers. We then host a Gala presented by Volvo Car USA at the Columbia Tower, the tallest building in Washington state, where the celebration continues.

Some of the highlights of NFFTY 2016 include an incredible selection of documentaries that explore human race, culture and relationship in a screening called “The Human Race” and a closing night screening that (in honor of our tenth festival) explores the power of story through diverse stories called “Around the World in Ten Films”.

Additionally, we have panel discussions like “Get Real: Filmmaking in VR” and a masterclass by Oscar-nominated director Christian Christiansen on navigating the world of independent filmmaking.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

SM: This year we received over 1,000 submissions from around the world, and I can say that there were many wonderful films that we had to pass over this year. We have an amazing Selection Committee that screens all of the films and provides feedback. Those films then go on to the Programming Committee who reviews comments and films and works from there.

I would say that the biggest factor in getting selected is story. We place higher value on this than on the production quality. With the advancement in accessibility to technology and camera, many people are making films. But what is the story? Where do you take the audience?

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

SM: I know that we would love to show more films at our festival, and based on the quality of the work that was submitted we had to turn away some really good films this year. We simply have limitations in terms of time and space. This year we had to pass on a lot of quality work and, honestly, it hurts to send those rejection emails. It’s a competitive landscape out there and we do our best to represent great films from around the world.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

SM: This is a unique festival that treats these young, creative filmmakers like the VIPs that they are. There is something remarkable about being around young, creative spirits. NFFTY’s filmmakers are supportive, collaborative, and give me hope for the future of film and storytelling. I feel lucky to be surrounded by them, which leaves me feeling refreshed and energized with a renewed spirit of creativity.

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

SM: NFFTY grew from a one-day festival in 2007 founded by three teenagers that were hoping to connect young media artists. Today it stands as the world’s largest film festival for young filmmakers (24 and under) that spans four days and has supported over 2,000 filmmakers in its ten years.

Over the years, we have embarked on initiatives to support particular needs in the film community. In 2014, NFFTY created its Young Women in Film initiative, a year-round effort to support young female filmmakers around the world. NFFTY also launched an in-house production company known as NFFTY Creative with the mission of connecting sponsors and brands with the festival’s most promising alumni to work on original branded content projects. The first major project, A Supporting Role, a short documentary earns multiple accolades including ADDY Awards and a Telly Award. These projects and initiatives have allowed the festival to grow a year-round presence with a focus on supporting our young filmmakers.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

SM: I hope it continues to grow through year round programming, partnerships and a larger global footprint. I would love to see it build upon its educational offerings and unique ways that we can continue to bridge opportunities for filmmakers as they make the leap to the professional world.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

SM: It would probably be a tie between Annie Hall or Duck Soup. Comedy is good for the soul and I can’t think of anyone funnier than Woody Allen or the Marx Brothers.

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

SM: I think a good film ultimately wrestles with the dilemma: what makes a good life? It can be through the tenderness of a man’s final moments as he grasps onto the cherished memory of Rosebud or through Rick bidding farewell to Ilsa.

This doesn’t mean that every film has to be so grand as Citizen Kane or Casablanca, but that we can experience and share in the human condition and plight — even for a moment — in a film.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

SM: The film scene in Seattle is growing. We are fortunate to have a strong contingent of talented female filmmakers that rivals the traditional landscape. We are home to two very talented independent directors – Lynn Shelton (Laggies, Your Sister’s Sister, Humpday) and Megan Griffiths (Lucky Them, Eden) and their excellent producers Mel Eslyn and Lacey Leavitt. There is a strong documentary scene in the town as well. There is a host of organizations like NFFTY, Northwest Film Forum, SIFF, Grand Illusion and Three Dollar Bill Cinema that continue to create a thoughtful community for filmmakers and support independent film.

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Fesival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go tohttp://www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Justin Timms (Brooklyn Horror Film Festival)

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The 2016 Brooklyn Horror Film Festival (BHFF) will be held the weekend of October 14, 2016. The BHFF is a must for established and up-and-coming filmmakers who have created short and feature films that instill fright, dread, panic and all around weirdness. In addition to the screenings, we will have Q&A’s with filmmakers, panels, games, food & drinks and more. The directors of the BHFF are committed to celebrating the art of horror filmmaking.

Go to the website: http://brooklynhorrorfest.com/

Interview with Justin Timms:

Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Justin Timms: Well, this is actually the first year of the BHFF so I can speak to our goals as a festival and give filmmakers and idea of what they can expect. Aside from having a space for filmmakers to show their work to an audience, we’re also striving to build a creative, social and fun event that is unlike your standard regional film festival.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

JT: Filmmakers & audience members can expect to see nothing short of the best in independent genre film. In addition to these screenings we’ll have a lot of fun events and parties. We haven’t officially announced these just yet but stay tuned!

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

JT: We don’t have any specific criteria that we’re looking for. We are going to put together a cohesive program that showcases the best independent talent. We’re looking at horror films, sure, but we’re also looking at documentaries, weird comedies and really any kind of fantastic indie film.

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

JT: Hard to say, but at BHFF we’re currently accepting submissions and there’s so much time and thought that goes into programming and we’re absolutely taking every submission into consideration.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

JT: It sounds cliche but we love horror films, it just doesn’t feel like work for us. Every time something falls into place for the festival it’s exciting.

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

JT: This is our first time around, we’ll let you know next year.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

JT: We want this to grow into the premier east coast industry event for any genre filmmaker. We love watching movies, but come on, let’s move past sitting in the theater for 10 hours and doing q&a’s all day, we want to show films but also have a great time. Let’s check out some rad films and then get together and discuss them over a nice cocktail.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

JT: That’s a good question. I’m not the type of person who re-watches films a lot. Usually I’ll watch a film in theaters and if I really loved it I’ll buy the Blu-Ray. But honestly I think I might have seen Rocky 4-5 times, that might be the winner right there.

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

JT: I can do it in a word – story.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

JT: Brooklyn is one of the top markets for artists to share their work. We have some of the best audiences in the country, people that really appreciate the art of filmmaking.

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Fesival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go tohttp://www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director JoAnn Thomas (FANtastic Horror Film Festival)

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The FANtastic Horror Film Festival in San Diego, CA is dedicated to bringing the latest and cutting edge Indie Horror films to the local community, It is a 3 day festival over Halloween and shows 30 + Indie Horror Short and Feature films. Following the Fest we have an Award Ceremony to celebrate our award nominees and winners. We are an official event on IMDb.

For more information please go to their website: http://www.fhffsd.org

Interview with JoAnn Thomas

Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

JoAnn Thomas: Our approach to the festival is that the filmmakers are also fans of Indie Horror films as well as being filmmakers. Being close to LA, we provide many networking opportunities as well. We are also an approved film festival on IMDb where we recognise our nominees and award winners.

We give out approximately 30 awards.ten for feature film, ten for short films, and 10 miscellaneous specialty awards. Of special interest is our LON CHANEY AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN INDEPENDENT HORROR FILMS, which is given to an individual in any capacity (i.e. actor, director, DP, etc) who in the past 5 to 10 years has exhibited multiple achievements in the horror genre.

We feel that providing a place to show films that might otherwise be overlooked by the public is important and we provide continuous support for our filmmakers. film, and the actors who are in those films we select. We are a family.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

JT: Two and a half days of fun, followed by an award ceremony recognising their work.

As a filmmaker ~ obviously a lot of networking opportunities and the opportunity to acknowledge the works of other filmmakers by participating in our Award Ceremony. Participating filmmakers, producers, and actors present the awards which also shows the family aspects of our festival.

As a Fan ~ a lot of great films to see and a lot of up and coming actors to meet.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

JT: Our Official Selections are obviously horror films and sub genres. We prefer to show films that are finished within the most recent 3 years, although exceptions have been made.

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

JT: My personal feeling is that many festivals forget the filmmakers and their films once the fest is over,and given the fact that most of our films are made on a shoestring budget, it behoves us to continue to promote them even after the fest is over.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

JT: Our initial motivation came from going to other fest that were disorganised and where films rarely started on time, and we were left to sit and wait. So, we decided to treat everyone like a movie going fan. To date most of our filmmakers find this a refreshing change.

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

JT: Our fest only continues to grow each year. Many of our filmmakers keep returning and giving us praise. Our filmmakers not only come back, they recommend us to their colleagues.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

JT: We reached one of our goals our first year when we received our first international film submission. So, now it is on to a much bigger goal which is to become the festival that every Indie Horror filmmaker wants to attend.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

JT: I know this is going to sound strange, but I come from a musical theatre background and I am an avid reader, so it begs the question. I am a big Stephen King fan and create my own movies in my head for the most part. I am also a big Criminal Minds fan as well. Putting these things together makes me a representative for the closet horror fan.

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

JT: A great story which is not predictable with good character development.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

JT: San Diego is a great place for a film festival. Unfortunately we haven’t been around for long enough to get a big local following as our fest is not regional. We are better known at a national and international level but that is about to change.

You may find any festival information and pictures on our website at http://www.fhffsd.org/ as far as my bio is concerned I would have to get back to you on that if it is necessary.

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Fesival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go tohttp://www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Mark Starks (Superhero Short Film Fest)

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Come celebrate the 1st Annual Superhero Short Film Fest at the Grace A. Dow Memorial Library Auditorium in Midland, MI on Monday April 18, 2016! Superhero Short Film Fest features a Live Screening of the Top 10 Films, followed by a Costume/Cosplay Contest!

https://filmfreeway.com/festival/SuperheroShortFilmFest

Interview with Mark Starks:

Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Mark Starks: Our value – and purpose – is to curate, provide imprimatur and thus help shape the culture of the local community by exhibiting quality films from independent filmmakers.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

MS: Highlights of the festival include a special screening of the teaser trailer MALELOVENT, the first US 2-D, hand-drawn animated horror movie, starring Morena Baccarin, William Shatner, Ray Wise, Bill Moseley and Dani Lennon, and LIBERATOR – an award-winning 18-minute short starring Lou Ferrigno as a disgraced, washed-up ex-superhero trying to get his life back on the rails. The film also stars Peta Wilson, Michael Dorn and Ed Asner. We’ll also be screening the first episode of WACKY WALLY’S VINTAGE TOYS!, featuring Wally Wingert, a voice actor and pal-of-mine from Hollywood. Wally was the announcer for the last four years of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. The Top 10 selected films embrace a diversity of genres, including comedy, drama, action, and fantasy. We conclude with an open costume/cosplay contest.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

MS: Strong writing is essential, along with acting, directing, editing and sound. Many of the selected films have outstanding special effects. For low-budget films, they really push the envelope. Then there is the obvious element of hero(es) with a problem or goal to give the story drive. Lastly, the audience must believe what each is fighting about.

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

MS: I think a lot of great films are overlooked at festivals, due in part to the volume of submissions. But thankfully, with the advent of digital media and the democratization of filmmaking, there are new avenues for the filmmaker to explore, including speciality theaters, VOD, or simply via social media. A film may be may not get a fair shake on the festival route but become the next viral sensation!

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

MS: We are excited to offer a de facto four-wall release for filmmakers through festival-run programs and partnerships above and beyond the event itself. We’re motivated by the terrific support of fans, sponsors and the community.

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

MS: The festival has obviously grown tremendously since its inception. There are currently more than 3000 active film festivals worldwide. …and there are many more categories, including experimental, independent and animation. I participated in my first film festival in 1978, in middle school, where I screened my Super-8 animated films. It’s great to see more diversity and support than ever for the independent filmmaker.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

MS: I see more festivals on more screens, along with sponsors and community partners, and continued growth in overall attendance. Look for a record number of guests participating in all of the events the film festival has to offer.

In regards to our festival, we plan to include more activities, including signings and panel discussions. Recently, I was a panelist at Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo in Los Angeles. We screened a segment of my motion comic book series, MARTIAN. I was truly impressed by the size and scope of the event.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

MS: Actually, it is the 1966 feature, BATMAN, with Adam West and Burt Ward. As a child, I never missed an episode of the television series. I didn’t see the first run of the film in theaters, but was thrilled to see it for the first time as The ABC Sunday Night Movie. I remember scanning TV Guide back then to see when it would air again. So, as a child, I racked up a lot of viewings of BATMAN – maybe too many. I enjoy seeing the surviving cast members at autograph shows, and even wrote a biography on Johnny Green and the Greenmen, one of the BATMAN guest-stars.

My favorite Hollywood actor is Paul Ganus, a classmate from Midland. It’s a Michigan thing – like Kate Upton and the (Detroit) Tigers.

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

MS: A great story, with engaging characters that you can relate to and root for.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

MS: Thriving! The MATRIX: MIDLAND Festival at Midland Center for the Arts (one of our sponsors) showcases films, and the Chippewa Nature Center is proud to host one of the stops on the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour.

Mark Starks, Festival Director, is an award-winning writer, author and independent film producer. He is a graduate of Central Michigan University (BAA – Journalism/Broadcasting & Cinematic Arts).

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go tohttp://www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Allen Myers (The Earth Day Film Festival)

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The Earth Day Film Festival is a platform to showcase art and film projects of an Earth sensitive population. Our film festival runs entirely on Clean Energy with Zero Waste goals, holding film screenings around the world on Earth Day and throwing fat festival full good earth love and mind expansion in San Francisco. We match the action to the message.

http://www.earthdayfilmfest.org/

Interview with Allen Myers:

Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Allen Myers: As a filmmaker myself, I understand the work it takes and the value of the films for the creators. It’s important that we honor those who are the backbone of the festival: the films and their creators. We have partnered with Ro*co Films, an international film distributor who will be present at the festival to watch the official selections. Ro*co Films will also hold a panel discussion for filmmakers, describing the current climate of film distribution and steps to bring their films to the market. We have an industry mixer where storytellers- our filmmakers- can partner with environmental organizations. We have also spent a lot of time ensuring that our gift bags for film makers are loaded with great gifts expressing our appreciation. This is a holistic and growth oriented approach that I think any film maker would appreciate.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

AM: One of our tag lines is, “Changing the content we celebrate and how we celebrate it.” We are not interested in the traditional regurgitated story lines that are being pumped out by hollywood and other avenues looking for a safe, money making approach. We are looking to be as cohesive as possible in a holistic approach to how an “Earth Day Film Festival” should look. We work to ensure our practices match the messages we share by using clean energy to power all of our screenings and maintaining zero-waste goals. We are also stepping away from traditional black box theater experiences and moving into environments that align with the stories we share. For example, we will screen a block of films around this years theme-Water- onto the sails of a sail boat in the San Francisco Bay. We will have a nature walk with a native plant specialist with filmmakers who will sharing their films in the forest. What you are going to experience is the future of how festivals will operate and the stories that will be shared. Its all incredibly exciting.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

AM: The main requirement we have established is honesty. Is this an honest film? This criteria extends to fiction films too. We select sincere creations, not something that is seeking fame or glory through the traditional channels. We are looking to share stories that inspire us to create a better world. We understand that an earthly experience is a broad experience and we welcome diverse interpretations. We are not set on “nature porn” as some might assume. Some of my favorite films are on the experimental side. There are several stages in this consciousness movement. First is awareness to the veil that has been pulled over us. For most, the initial reaction to this deceit is, understandably, anger. We get a lot of documentaries and films that present that voice. To appreciate films that call others forward into the journey, we present the “Activist Award”. The next phase is application, “what are we doing in our lives to create a better world?” We award this film with “The New Paradigm Award”.

The “Earths Choice Award” goes to the film that has aligned message with produced methods, meaning a environmentally low-impact film about the environment. As you can see we are not a traditional film festival and we are proud of that.

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

AM: Absolutely, a large part of that has to do with safety. If we continue on the paths that other film festivals have traveled for so long, we will just keep getting more of the same stories and same results.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

AM: We are motivated by the shared vision we hold to reconnect humanity to a planet that many of us might feel separated from. That it is somehow just a resource to use, where we believe we are the world and it is through holistic and intentional systems that we will be the healthiest and happiest we can be.

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

AM: Growing rapidly!

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

AM: I see this festival continuing on the path that it is on and expanding all over the world. Part of our festival is understanding that a film festival celebrating the Earth should not be location specific; it is for the Earth as a whole! For that reason our selected themed films are open to people around the world who wish to screen them in their communities. All we request is that the films be screened with clean energy and that zero waste goals are upheld (meaning no one time use items such as straws, disposable bags etc). The main idea behind this event is to create a global collective consciousness movement, one that is positively directed and focused around themes of environmental remediation, global community and peace. We are excited about current technological developments around the internet and mass communication and would like to utilize that to affect positive action. This year, selected films around the theme of water will be screened in Los Angles, San Francisco, Vancouver, Mexico City, Madrid and New York. I see our awards like the “New Paradigm Award”, “Activist Award” and “Earths Choice” being as coveted as an Academy Award.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

AM: Probably “Baraka”

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

AM: Honesty, a true unique voice.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

AM: San Francisco is rough right now, it’s in a state of ‘pay to play’ and a lot of the artists have up and left for more supportive communities. This does make for great story telling and any artist will tell you that through trial and tribulations some of the best art is brought forward. There are several filmmaker groups and art collectives that continue to share the indy filmmaker voice. Merchants of Reality and the ATA are good examples of that.

earth_day_2.jpg

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go tohttp://www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

 

Interview with Festival Director Todd Looby (BendFilm Festival)

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13th Annual BendFilm Festival : October 6th – 9th, 2016

BendFilm celebrates the brave voice of independent cinema through films, lectures and education. A constant member on Movie Magazine’s 50 Fests worth the entry fee.

http://www.bendfilm.org/

Interview with Todd Looby:

Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Todd Looby: We provide a platform for underrepresented / under-appreciated filmmakers. We want to help them build their careers. Our feature filmmakers are now receiving travel stipends to encourage attendance. We also provide lodging for all filmmakers. We want our filmmakers to spend their money on their films and not on plane tickets. We also want to provide an atmosphere where our filmmakers can network with each other and the public to encourage future collaborations. We also offer $8,500 in cash awards (including $5,000 for Best in Show) and a $60,000 Panavision Camera Package.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

TL: If you’ve been to BendFilm before, you’ll expect to see our best addition yet. We just brought on Erik Jambor as programmer. He has 17 years experience Directing some of the best Fests out there: Sidewalk Moving Pictures, IndieMemphis and even a short stint at BendFilm in 2007. Erik is already putting together a program that will give everybody something to see and hold on to. And, of course…since we are serious about “Celebrating” independent Film, our parties and events will not disappoint!

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

TL: We typically prefer Oregon premieres, but we often screen films that will have played at Ashland or Portland. What we really look for are the diamonds in the rough – again, films that have been underappreciated or we predict will be so. We want to see someone do the impossible. An example is a film that just shouldn’t work on paper and when you actually see what the director, actors and crew were able to do with nothing, you walk out amazed.

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

TL: Yes. I think some festivals rely too much on where the films have played previously. We want to be a discovery fest and that fits well with Erik’s philosophy as well. Of course, we also program more popular films, but we want to give the smaller films the same amount of exposure and better chances to win our cash awards.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

TL: We’re motivated by our belief in the power of film to change lives and improve our community. Bend is relatively isolated in the middle of Oregon. Though a popular destination, our community doesn’t get regular access to working artists. We also only have one small arthouse in town. Our fest provides access to films that wouldn’t otherwise screen in Bend and also provides access to the artists that make these films. Independent Films are more conversation starters than the Hollywood fare. Our community and visitors learn more about hot-button issues and the outside world. Independent films also have higher minority and women representation. We are introducing our community and visitors to different points of view they do not see in mainstream films or media.

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

TL: We do a lot of things the same as we’ve always done. However, Bend is changing fast and we are keeping up with the changes and expanding exponentially. In 2015, we received 3x the amount of submissions we did in 2014. This year we expect more. We are doing many more screenings and events throughout the year. We are also expanding our education programs.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

TL: I think BendFilm has the potential to be a leader in the independent film festival industry. This town can’t be beat. I’m relatively new here and still awed by it’s natural beauty and laid-back feel. Though as a filmmaker I never screened here, the minute I came I had an inking of what a filmmaker sees when coming here for the first time. They’re in awe. Our feedback each year gets better and better. As we improve our programming and national exposure, I think even more and more people will come here for the fest. It’s simply the perfect place to host a festival like ours.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

TL: Probably “Midnight Run”. Our family finally got cable in 1989 and I was introduced to so many films I hadn’t seen before, but “Midnight Run” sticks with me (though it’s been awhile since I’ve seen it). There was a time when I knew it by heart. It’s my perfect kind of film: It’s hilarious, it has incredible heart, it has a great moral compass and it can change tone at the drop of a hat. It’s really one of the more underappreciated films in existence. I also think it was either that or Untouchables that introduced me to DeNiro and, thus, the other movies I’ve watched most are DeNiro films: Goodfellas, Mean Streets, Raging Bull, Deer Hunter, etc, etc.

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

TL: My compass for a great film is simply that elicits a strong emotional response – whether it’s laughter, tears, genuine shock or deep thought (which I consider emotive). I see too many films these days that are languid. I understand that filmmakers want to get away from the action and plot-driven Hollywood fare, but I think they also sacrifice the need to emotionally connect with an audience. Great filmmakers are able to make character-driven films that are artful, heady, yet engaging and accessible.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

TL: Our community has a deep appreciation of cinema. This fest is really a community-driven event. It’s so well supported locally. And as far as filmmakers, more and more move here each year. They may fly out to shoot, but the more they’re here, the more local filmmaking will increase. At BendFilm, we’re trying to coalesce everyone together at least quarterly to network and develop collaborations. We also have a great relationship with Tim Williams at the Oregon Film Office. A former BendFilm Director, Sandy Henderson, is also opening up a Central Oregon Film Office to increase local filmmaking.

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go tohttp://www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Executive Director Mingu Kim (Toronto Smartphone Film Festival)

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The Toronto Smartphone Film Festival was created with the goal to encourage aspiring filmmakers to share their stories through film, without having to equip themselves with expensive video equipment, training or field experience. As the largest smartphone film festival in Canada, TSFF provides aspiring filmmakers, from all backgrounds, with an international platform to showcase their work and talent.

Interview with Mingu Kim

Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Mingu Kim: TSFF provides a unique platform for new, emerging and established filmmakers to showcase their films, not just locally but internationally. It’s another way for filmmakers to express their thoughts and ideas without spending thousands of dollars.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

MK: This year we are celebrating our 5th anniversary and after several trial and errors, we have stronger award categories for filmmakers and more quality films for people to enjoy than ever. We are also partnered with 2 other organizations, Raindance Canada and Autism in Mind. Raindance Canada is working with us to educate people on smartphone filmmaking and as well as getting local filmmakers to try something different from the norm. Then we have Autism in Mind (AIM) this year to help promote the awareness of autism through film with a separate award category.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

MK: Our regulations are very simple. All films must be 10 mins or less where all scenes must be shot on either smartphones or tablets. We also receive a lot of international submissions so English subtitles are required if the main language used are not in English.

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

MK: I think every film festival has its own colour and designated audience members to a certain degree, which can affect film selections. Therefore, filmmakers should also do a thorough research on various film festivals around the world to find a festival that best targets the type of films they produce. But then, it doesn’t hurt providing more room and leniency for new and emerging filmmakers, which would bring a broader spectrum of creativity and messages shared.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

MK: I believe our motivation comes from doing what we enjoy. Many of us are independent filmmakers and we are constantly thinking from the filmmakers’ point-of-view to make TSFF a more inclusive festival. Every year has been a challenge but we feel rewarded knowing that filmmakers enjoy watching their films on big screen and viewers enjoy the difference of our festival compared to others.

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

MK: Well, to make the long story short, we began the festival within the Korean-Canadian community in Toronto 5 years ago under a different name. It started as a marketing strategy for my TV program on OMNI (Korean language programming). However, I saw the potential growth of the festival which needed to include anyone and everyone, so we changed our name into TSFF the 3rd year and became more global than what I had expected.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

MK: I am hoping for TSFF to become one of representing smartphone festivals in the world. We want to grow with the development of new technology so that our films are not only creative but also innovative.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

MK: It’s a touch question to answer because there are so many films. I love watching films in general, but I always tend to come back to Terminator 2.

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

MK: A great film comes from one’s perseverance, dedication and believing in oneself.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

MK: I think Toronto is one of the best cities representing the film scene. We are so spoiled with hundreds of film festivals that can be enjoyed throughout the year. There’s a film festival for everyone in Toronto!
torontosmartphone

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go tohttp://www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Best of 10 Cloverfield Lane

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Read interview with the top film crew of the film, plus a praising movie review of the film that will set box office records this weekend:

Movie Review: 10 CLOVERFIELD LANE ***1/2
https://festivalreviews.org/2016/03/10/movie-review-10-cloverfield-lane/

Spoiler Alert: Please note that in order to provide a readable film review, there are minor plot points that have to be revealed in the review.

Interview with Cinematographer Jeff Cutter (10 Cloverfield Lane):
Interview with Cinematographer Jeff Cutter (10 Cloverfield Lane)

From Jeff Cutter: Expect a taut, tense psychological thriller with 1 or 2 big surprises. I had a great time working on the film as we had a wonderful director in Dan Trachtenberg and an extremely supportive production company in Bad Robot. It was a relatively small budget, and had challenges as a result, but since it is mostly a very contained script we could maximize the resources we had.

Interview with Special Effects Coordinator Donnie Dean (10 Cloverfield Lane):
Interview with Special Effects Coordinator Donnie Dean (Emmy Winner – American Horror Story)

From Donnie Dean: I can say we didn’t know until everyone else in the world that it was to be 10 Cloverfield. It was called Valencia up until then and no one knew it was related to Cloverfield at all.

Interview with Stunt Double Olga Wilhelmine (10 Cloverfield Lane):
Interview with Stunt Double Olga Wilhelmine (10 Cloverfield Lane)

From Olga Wilhelmine: I was Mary Elizabeth Winstead’s stand-in, photo double and stunt double on 10 Cloverfield Lane so I was there every day with her on set. We filmed about 7 weeks in New Orleans mainly on a sound stage bunker set which was kept dark and lots of smoke, dust and special effects that add to the bunker feel. Being in the dark all day was a bit harrowing especially in the beginning and we really felt like we were in a bunker.

****
Also, Free logline submissions. The Writing Festival network averages over 95,000 unique visitors a day.
Great way to get your story out: http://www.wildsound.ca/logline.html

Deadlines to Submit your Screenplay, Novel, Story, or Poem to the festival: http://www.wildsound.ca

Watch recent Writing Festival Videos. At least 15 winning videos a month: http://www.wildsoundfestival.com

Interview with Festival Director Jeremy Jantz (PDXtreme Film Fest)

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The PDXtreme Film Fest is the best damn genre festival Portland Oregon has ever seen! Taking place over 3 days at the historic Academy Theater, we showcase horror, crime, dark comedy, and everything in-between. Tales of the grotesque, the limits of the psychological, and bumps in the night whatever the cause! Does it take place in space? That’s cool too.

 

Interview with Jeremy Jantz:

Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Jeremy Jantz: We know where we stand. The odds of an industry professional in the audience just waiting to sign a contract are incredibly slim. We don’t do a script competition because the best I can do is give you a “thumbs up” and that doesn’t seem worth the fee.

But we care about our line-up of films. We want it to mean something that a film is playing at PDXtreme Fest, because that means it’s in good company. We demonstrated our commitment to the significance of our awards with a custom made trophy. You can’t just hand those out. We encourage support among the attending filmmakers. What’s the point of flying across the country to watch only your own film? By last year’s wrap party, there was a whole lot of indie film talent around a set of tables at the nearest bar, and that’s the kind of experience that’s priceless. Or at least pricelessish.

We also pay attention to the small details along the way. We do personalized acceptance letters. Final notification is set in stone, and a month before the fest to make potential travel more convenient. Each film gets two free drink tickets for attendees. People thought the promised free beer was a joke last year. It was all too real.

We want attending PDXtreme Fest to be actual fun.

Matthew: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

Jeremy: Based on last year, you’ll see a fantastic roster of genre films from around the world. PDXtreme Fest is hosted by the Academy Theater, a wonderfully restored vintage theater serving beer,wine and pizza- none of that meeting room screening going on here. There should be plenty of directors, as well as producers, talent, and other people associated with the films. There won’t be panels. I find them dull.

Matthew: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

Jeremy: We have a two person jury. So it’s not a complicated system where the film has to make it through a rank of interns or is scored via some arcane numeric formula. I’d say we have three basic rules that get a film on the short list. The very first criteria is: did we enjoy it? If it’s 30 seconds or 2 hours, it shouldn’t be boring. Second, it shouldn’t be half-assed. And half-assed isn’t about money. No matter what your budget is, passion is free and makes a big difference in the final film. Finally, we want to see something new in the film. There’s nothing wrong with starting with a genre cliche as long as some aspect ends up being original.

As far as moving from the short list to the accepted list, that’s a bit more ephemeral. Last year we ran the gamut from exploitation grind-house to holiday themed slasher to lesbian post-apocalyptic western. Ultimately Dulcie and I curate the fest like it’s a fest we want to attend.

Matthew: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

Jeremy: I don’t want to speculate about all of the nebulous behind the scenes going-ons at other fests that may or may not be happening. People know. People hear things. I can say that length comes up a lot for some filmmakers. The 25-60 minute film has a tough hill to climb. But if your film really needs to be that long, then so be it. Content is never an issue for us. We went NC-17 last year. Blood, nudity, veganism, we’ve embraced it all. We don’t care about the director’s gender. Last year we had 10 women directors/co-directors. Some of our most over the top films were from women directors. I know the discrimination happens, but that doesn’t mean I understand it.

Matthew: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

Jeremy: Portland had a void for an all around genre film festival. After Dulcie and I attended a number of fests in other cities, we looked around and said “Why don’t we have something like this here?” Its not about getting the sack with the dollar sign on it. As cheesy as it sounds, it’s about the experience for everybody, whether a filmmaker or a film fan.

Matthew: How has the festival changed since its inception?

Jeremy: Since this will only be our second year, I can’t really point to a long and evolving history. The first year taught us some behind the scenes organizational lessons. This year we do hope to bring some upgrades to the fest experience. I really want to see a tie-in with a local brewer. Since this Portland, I have high hopes.

Matthew: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

Jeremy: There’s a limit to how much we would want to grow. I can’t ever see us in the Portland Convention Center as we collapse under our own financial weight year after in the red year. It’s going to be about striving to constantly improve in the small ways without forgetting that you need filmmakers to have a film festival.

Matthew: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

Jeremy: “True Romance”. It involved no cable, a limited VHS library, and too much vodka from a plastic bottle, but I watched that movie about 20 times in a two week period.

Matthew: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

Jeremy: I want to watch it again.

Matthew: How is the film scene in your city?

Jeremy: Portland is a very artistic city. Not only do we have an indie film scene, we have a tiny bit of Hollywood here. If you want to be an extra on “Grimm” this is the place for you. Seriously though, we’ve definitely developed to the point that all the building blocks are there for people interested in movie making.

 

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Fesival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go tohttp://www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.