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Wednesday, March 7, 2007
SXSW Interview: Bryan Poyser, ‘Grammy’s’
Director: Bryan Poyser
Film: “Grammy’s”
Category: Narrative Shorts (World Premiere)
Sites: SXSW
Screening: 7 p.m. Monday, March 12; 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 14; 1:45 p.m. Saturday, March 17; all at Alamo South
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: Two brothers have a really bad time on a fishing trip until a stranger makes them a bizarre but lucrative offer.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
SXSW has been very good to me. This is actually my fifth time with a film that I either wrote or wrote-and-directed in the festival. Three years ago, I had my first feature, “Dear Pillow,” play at the Convention Center on the first night in the history of SXSW that the Paramount sold out, for “Bush’s Brain.” And it was raining. But we still got a big, supportive hometown crowd out for the movie, and it was probably the biggest audience in all the 30 festivals where it played. Last year, a film that I co-wrote and produced, “The Cassidy Kids,” premiered to a near-sellout crowd at the Paramount. That was totally surreal.
This time I’m back with a short film. There’s much less attention paid to shorts, but I’m totally fine with that. This film is an experiment in many ways for me — it’s my first straight-ahead comedy, for one. And I co-edited this with Sean Gallagher — the last time I did any editing myself was on a Steenbeck, actually chopping and taping 16mm film. I taught myself Final Cut Pro with this film. So, I’m okay with the idea that maybe 1,100 people won’t be watching on the first night.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
Whenever I go out of town for a film festival, I realize just how spoiled we all are to live in a town that has about eight major annual film festivals, plus amazing organizations like the Austin Film Society, Reel Women, the Austin School of Film, Screen Door, the Austin Cinematheque, great video stores like Vulcan and I Love Video and the best damn theater chain in the country, the Alamo Drafthouse. You can gorge yourself on film, from grindhouse to arthouse, literally every night in Austin. You just can’t do that anywhere else, at least that I’ve visited yet.
And SXSW is the biggest event on my social calendar for the year. I’ve developed so many friendships from it, I’m always giddy with excitement when it rolls around because I know I’ll get to see my film friends again from all across the country.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
To see old friends, make new ones and maybe even find new people to collaborate with.
This movie wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for SXSW. The whole reason I did it was because when I met Joe Swanberg back in 2005 when his film “Kissing on the Mouth” played here, I realized that he and Rusty Kelley would make a great brother duo. It took me about a year to figure out what exactly this brother duo would actually do. I ended up bringing Joe down here in June 2006 for a benefit screening of “Kissing on the Mouth” and “Dear Pillow” at the Alamo to raise money for “Grammy’s.” We started shooting the next day. So, it’s a real thrill to come full circle and show the film at the festival where it was born.
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
Two words: Rusty Kelley. He is an amazing kid, just a stunning natural performer and he gets to really shine in “Grammy’s” as the worst little brother you could imagine. His performance was impressive enough to Ti West, the director of “Trigger Man” (the feature “Grammy’s” will precede) that he cast Rusty in a major role in “Cabin Fever 2,” the sequel to Eli Roth’s first film. Rusty’s in North Carolina right now shooting. You will definitely be seeing more of this kid in the future.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
Way too many. Joe Swanberg’s third feature in three years, “Hannah Takes the Stairs,” is definitely at the top of my list. One of the actors in that, Ry Russo-Young, has her first feature “Orphans” playing in competition. My friend Kyle Henry edited the doc “Audience of One” and told me some scary/hilarious stories about the demented preacher/filmmaker at the center of the story. Marcy Garriott’s new doc about the B-Boys of Austin called “Inside the Circle” is going to be off the hook. I know I’m going to be enraged by it, but I want to see “Fall From Grace,” the doc about Fred Phelps, the notorious homophobe preacher from Kansas. And, I know the Slamdance Audience Award winning “Murder Party” is going to be some perfect midnight movie action.
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
Everyone’s gotta have at least one plate of migas at Las Manitas while they’re here. And, who can leave town without taking a dip in Barton Springs?
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
Austin. Second week in March. SXSW Film Festival. I’ve been there every year since 1995 and hope to still be coming in 2055. But we’ll probably be watching movies on our eyelids by then. Screw it. We’ll still need a beer in our hands and a badge around our necks.
Permalink | | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
SXSW Interview: Chiemi Karasawa, ‘Billy the Kid’
Producer: Chiemi Karasawa
Film: “Billy the Kid”
Category: Documentary Features (World Premiere)
Sites: Official | SXSW
Screening: 9 p.m. Sunday, March 11 at Austin Convention Center; 1:45 p.m. Tuesday, March 13 at Alamo Downtown; 1:45 p.m. Saturday, March 17 at Alamo Downtown
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: By turns humorous and disturbing, this subtle, verite portrait of an underdog challenges the viewer to understand a triumphant teen on his own terms.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
Yes, first time.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
We hear it’s a hip festival, great vibe, music folks and fun venues.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
Great contacts for our film “Billy the Kid”, good press and word of mouth for our movie, maybe the prize for best doc?
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
It’s a totally unique portrait of a young outsider who falls in love… with songs from KISS.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
The Jesus documentary, have to look at the program!
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
Salt Lick, Hotel San Jose. We’re having a great premiere party at Factory People on Sunday, March 11, from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m.!
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
“Giant” with Jimmy Dean and Richard Linklater.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
SXSW Interview: Ronald Bronstein, ‘Frownland’
Director: Ronald Bronstein
Film: “Frownland”
Category: Narrative Features (World Premiere)
Sites: Official | SXSW
Screening: 11 a.m. Sunday, March 11; 1:30 p.m. Monday, March 12; 8 p.m. Friday, March 16; all at Alamo Downtown
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: “Frownland” is a seams-exposed comedy — a melee of a movie, really — about a door-to-door coupon salesman who eats popcorn and eggs off the folded-out door of his kitchen oven.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
First feature, first film.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
Well, Austin is sort of infamous for being this low-rent gonzo incubation tank for wayward thinking. SXSW’s programming is, I think, an extension of this.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
I’m really just hoping to see the work connect with some people in an affecting way. I’ve taken a lot of risks with the project and have worked on it in solitude for way too long, so who knows? My efforts could be ridiculous, useless, a flop. We’ll see. Heh.
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
Because it’s funny and frayed and spastic and raw and somewhat out of vogue with the kinds of pasteurized indie fare that tends to get distribution these days. I’m sort of groping here to find a filmic corollary to the intimacy of some hand-scrawled typo-laden fanzine. Does that sound attractive?
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
Sure. There’s the Scott Walker doc, and the Robyn Hitchock one. “Zoo.” “Whole Shootin’ Match.” “Hannah Takes the Stairs” (very cool that Andrew Bujalski is acting in someone else’s movie this time around; gives the impression of some kind of movement in the making). Oh, and all the films in competition with me, natch.
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
Well, I have a pretty pinheaded impression of local Austin landmarks, born entirely from movies, records and underground comics. The fountain where Daniel Johnston had his infamous acid meltdown. The bridge that those guys in “Slacker” threw the typewriter off of. A dumpster in the back of Robert Rodriguez’s house filled to the brim with paper-mache stalagmites and other grade-Z homemade props.
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
Hmm. “Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” Though I wish I could say “Brewster McCloud” came to my head first. For better or worse, it’s the movies you take in as a kid that seem to leave the strongest mark.
Permalink | | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
SXSW Interview: Andrew Shea, ‘Forfeit’
Director: Andrew Shea
Film: “Forfeit”
Category:
Sites: Official | SXSW
Screening: 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 13; 12 p.m. Friday, March 16; both at Dobie
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: An armored-car guard’s elaborate plan for revenge is threatened by his relationship with an old friend — a brilliant and unpredictable television preacher.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
This will be my first SXSW.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
SXSW has grown to be one of the largest and most prestigious festivals in North America. It reminds me more of Sundance, where my first two features premiered, than the other smaller, regional festivals I have visited over the years.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
Free stuff. A distribution deal. War stories for my students at the University of Texas.
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
It has all the pleasures of a genre heist film and has a real sting in its tail.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
I’m especially excited to see the films by my colleagues at UT: “Third Ward, TX”, “Elvis and Anabelle”, and Weaving Worlds.
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
The LBJ Library and Museum, Peter Pan Mini-Golf, Zilker Park
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
“Giant”
Permalink | | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
SXSW Interview: Matthew Lessner, ‘By Modern Measure’
Director: Matthew Lessner
Film: “By Modern Measure”
Category: Narrative Shorts
Site: SXSW
Screening: 11:30 a.m. Sunday; 11:15 a.m. Tuesday; 11 a.m. Friday, March 16; all at Alamo South
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: An amateur French sociologist presents his observations on a day in the life of two young Americans who meet by chance outside a Taco Bell on Oct. 8, 2006.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
Yes, this is my first time at SXSW. I submitted an earlier film last year, but it was rejected in a soul-crushing blow, which actually makes my acceptance and attendance this year all the more sweet.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
Since I’ve never been to SXSW, Austin or even Texas for that matter, my impressions are all based on things I learned from the fantastic MTV show, “The Real World.” From what I gather, though, both SXSW and Austin are supposed to be pretty exciting places. Apparently the entire populous is breathtakingly beautiful, and barbecue food is abundant and completely free. Even though Austin is in the middle of Texas, I somehow imagine that no one has an accent, and that all strangers hug each other upon first meeting. I’ve also heard that it’s best not to “mess with Texas” and that “everything is bigger in Texas.” I plan to do my best to heed both of these dire warnings.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
In a best-case scenario, I’ll be walking away with several lifelong friendships, a contract with a mid-sized production company, a black eye and several trophies.
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
Audiences should be excited to see “By Modern Measure” for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it’s short, at 5 minutes and 45 seconds. After seeing it, you’re still going to have time to partake in plenty of other exciting activities. Beyond that, it deals with subject matter that I find to be fairly pertinent; it’s essentially a comment on modern American youth and their role in the current state of the world, particularly in regards to topics such as consumerism, MySpace and YouTube (hopefully without being too heavy-handed or preachy). As a young American, I’m especially concerned with the ways in which my highly self-centered, fame-hungry Generation Y is going to impact the course of history, and I think you should be too. Plus, you’re going to laugh.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
I’ve spent a good part of the last eight months working on preproduction for a feature-length documentary about corn and all of its vast implications. Then just this morning a film entitled “King Corn,” which will be premiering at SXSW, was brought to my attention. I just watched the trailer, and it looks as if I might have been wasting a lot of time over the course of these last eight months. So I think it’s safe to say that I’ll be catching “King Corn,” with friendly gritted teeth.
Last year I made the acquaintance of the kindly folks who made “Silver Jew” and “Hannah Takes the Stairs,” so I imagine I will be checking out those two as well.
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
I’m just trying to get to wherever those “Real World” cats were always hanging out. I’m looking to get black-out drunk and embarrass myself. The Hard Rock Café is pretty high up there.
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
When I think of Texas and the movies, I think of Wes Anderson, “Bottle Rocket” and “Rushmore,” in that order. Texas really suits Mr. Anderson; I think he should come back.
Permalink | | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
SXSW Interview: Diane Crespo and Stefan Schaefer, ‘Arranged’
Director: Diane Crespo and Stefan Schaefer
Film: “Arranged”
Category: Narrative Features (World Premiere)
Sites: Official | SXSW
Screening: 4:30 p.m. Sunday, March 11 at Alamo South; 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 13 at Alamo South; 7:45 p.m. Thursday, March 15 at Dobie
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: Two young women — one an Orthodox Jew, the other Muslim — meet and become friends as first-year teachers at a public school in Brooklyn. Over the course of the year they learn they share much in common, not least of which is that they are both going through arranged marriages.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
This is our first time at SxSW. We’ve heard only good things and have high expectations.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
Again, we’ve heard only good things and made our decision to world premiere our film here because of industry attendance but even more because filmmakers seem to love it - they make strong connections, have a good time, etc.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
We hope to come away with continued interest in distributing our film, more connections in the film community, having had lively post-screening Q&As, and with enthusiasm for jumping into our next project(s).
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
It’s very timely and topical. The acting is superb - two great break-out performances from our young leads, Zoe Lister-Jones and Francis Benhamou. This is the world premiere of a film we hope will move on to many other festivals, find distribution and be talked about for years to come.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
“American Zombie,” “The Ten,” among others.
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
Open to any and all experiences. Haven’t had time to research local attractions — too much last-minute preparation for our premiere.
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
The John Sayle’s film “Lone Star.”
Permalink | Comments (1) | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
SXSW Interview: Ron Mann, ‘Imagine the Sound’
Director: Ron Mann
Film: “Imagine the Sound”
Category: Documentary Features (Regional Premiere)
Sites: Official | SXSW
Screening: 4:30 p.m. Monday, March 12; 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 15; both at Alamo South
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: “Imagine the Sound” (1981) profiles four musicians who were influential in the evolution of jazz into a free-form musical art. Canadian documentary filmmaker Ron Mann’s first feature documentary, made when he was only 22 years old, was originally released on 16mm, mono optical sound. Considered to be by many critics as one of the all-time great jazz films, “Imagine The Sound” is newly restored and presented on HD and 5.1 stereo sound.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
It’s all a blur — as it should be.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
SXSW is like enjoying a sweet spliff, while most other festivals are on crack.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
Energy. SXSW totally recharges me.
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
Because it’s (expletive) good.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
All of ‘em. I’m also a panel junkie and love to hear what people are up to.
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
Every minute is an adventure in Austin. It really doesn’t matter where you wind up — its all good.
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
SXSW - like, duh.
Permalink | | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
SXSW Interview: Doug Pray, ‘Big Rig’
Director: Doug Pray
Film: “Big Rig”
Category: Documentary Features (World Premiere)
Sites: Official | SXSW
Screening: 10 p.m. March 10 at Austin Convention Center; 2 p.m. March 14 at the Paramount; 1:30 p.m. March 17 at the Paramount
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: “Big Rig” is a broad portrait of modern America as seen through the eyes of long-haul truck drivers. Spanning 21,000 miles, 45 states and dozens of truck stops, director Doug Pray and producer Brad Blondheim (the team who created “Scratch”) went far beyond just the chrome and coffee culture and made a film that delves deeply into the lives and personal struggles of these working-class heroes, who are, literally, carrying the nation upon their backs.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
I’ve been to SXSW three times before with my other feature documentaries: “Hype!” which was about the explosion of the Seattle music scene of the early ’90s, “Scratch,” about hip-hop DJ’s, and more recently, “Infamy,” about illegal graffiti writers. Because my first two films were about music, my SXSW Film Festival experiences usually blend heavily with the SXSW Music Festival. It’s all kind of a blur and a lot of fun. My new film, “Big Rig,” isn’t about a musical subculture, but its truck-driving narrative is heavily interwoven with the music of Buck 65. So, as if it were a music movie, we’re throwing a big party on Wednesday the 14th with a rare live-band performance by Buck 65, in which he’ll play his signature folk-country-roots-hip-hop-rap-spoken-word (yes, you heard that correctly) along with scenes and visuals from the film itself. Eighteen-wheelers will be present, naturally.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
I love SXSW because, while there’s so much going on film-wise, it’s just very laid-back, and the enchiladas are in abundance. It’s also becoming more recognized as a festival where plenty of film business goes on (a brutal necessity for us independent filmmakers, to get our movies sold and distributed), yet, it’s not a bunch of suits and cell phones and stress. It’s Texas and it remains very do-it-yourself, and you better have fun (or you’re missing the point).
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
Since it’s the world premiere of “Big RIg,” I’m just eager and nervous and excited to find out how it plays in front of an audience, so I guess my answer to your question is that I want to know what this film is, and what it means to people. You get kind of myopic when you’ve just finished a movie, and this one is a significant departure from my previous films. Other than that, I really want to watch as many other movies as I can. Film festivals are about the only time that I actually sit and watch movies in a theater.
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
Because it’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen: On the surface, it’s the ultimate road trip movie about truck drivers, spanning 45 states, 21,000 miles of highway and dozens of truckstops… but it’s really about the characters we met along the way and their lives. Audiences may be expecting “Convoy” and a wacky hee-haw film about chromed out trucks, speed and CBs, but what we found out there was a hell of a lot more intense, and more reflective of a nation that has completely ignored its working class and its truck drivers, in particular, who are its lifeblood. Though it’s a documentary, it’s actually more like “The Grapes of Wrath.” Even the music invokes Woody Guthrie.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
Just to name a few of the many I’m hoping to see are: Kerri O’Kane’s movie about the Seattle band “The Gits.” That band was in my first film, “Hype!” and I’m eager see the real story of lead singer Mia Zapata (who was murdered in 1993) in a non-“Unsolved Mysteries” type treatment. I’m also dying to see another Northwest-related doc, “Kurt Cobain About a Son.” Plus the Robyn Hitchcock film, and I’ve heard good things about “Steal a Pencil for Me.” There’s a bunch of others too, not including the dramatic features … but I’m sure I’ll run out of time. Oh, well.
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
Hottie Dogs at 2 a.m. The classic breakfast at Magnolia Cafe at 10. Coffee at Jo’s while Doctari plays live in the back at 1. And when you’re sick of movies and parties and bands, going down to the river and checking out one of those canoes on Town Lake and floating around under the interstate.
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
I immediately think about Richard Linklater and the film “Slacker.” I still love it and I still feel its presence — for better or worse — when I’m hanging out in Austin. All these years later, it still sets the tone.
Permalink | | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
SXSW Interview: Naomi Greenfield and Sara Taksler, ‘TWISTED: A Balloonamentary’
Directors: Naomi Greenfield and Sara Taksler
Film: “TWISTED: A Balloonamentary”
Category: Documentary Features (World Premiere)
Sites: Official | SXSW
Screening: 2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 10; 12 p.m. Tuesday, March 13; both at Dobie
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: With animation narrated by Jon Stewart, “TWISTED: A Balloonamentary” uncovers the world of balloon twisting conventions. Exploring how eight balloon twisters’ lives are dramatically changed by a little piece of latex, this funny and heartwarming documentary is about passion, salvation, love, death, race, religion and a whole lot of balloons.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
“TWISTED: A Balloonamentary” marks our first trip to SXSW. But, we did film a balloon twisting convention in Austin two years ago. Bet you didn’t know that Austin was the birthplace of the world’s first balloon twisting convention!
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
SXSW is known to be the most fun of all the festivals. So we’re expecting a good time. No pressure, Austinites …
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
This is our world premiere, so we’d really like to leave knowing that audiences enjoyed the film. We’d like to take away a growing fan base that will turn us into a cult classic. And a pony … We’d really like to take away a pony.
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
You will definitely laugh and probably cry. You will be amazed and inspired. This movie is about passion, salvation, love, death, race, religion and a whole lot of balloons — what’s not to like? Oh, and everyone who attends one of our screenings will learn how to make a balloon dog.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
We’re excited to see “What Would Jesus Buy?” and “Knocked Up” — both seem good for a hearty laugh.
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
We’ll mostly just soak in all of the festival activities — parties and panels. But if anyone has suggestions, please let us know. We’ll be the ones with the balloons.
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
How psyched we are to be at SXSW this year. Seriously.
Permalink | | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
SXSW Interview: The Hawkins Brothers, ‘Buttercup’ and ‘Ode to Fredo’
Directors: Zeke and Simon Hawkins
Film: “Buttercup” and “Ode to Fredo”
Category: Narrative Shorts and Music Videos
Sites: SXSW - “Buttercup” and “Ode to Fredo”
Screening: “Buttercup” — 11 a.m. Saturday, March 10; 11 a.m. Monday, March 12; 11 a.m. Thursday, March 15; all at Alamo South. “Ode to Fredo” — 10:30 p.m. Saturday, March 10; 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 17; both at Dobie
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: “Buttercup” — Craig Tyler had the life he’d always planned. With his wife, Mary Anne, and his daughter, Buttercup, Craig lived a picture-perfect existence in Darien, Connecticut. That is, until Mary Anne fell ill and Jacques the herbalist moved in. “Ode to Fredo” — The last minutes of Fredo Corleone’s life.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
It’s my first time. Never even been to Texas.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
As I understand it, SXSW is one of the best festivals in the country in terms of both industry exposure and having fun. And with the music festival going on as well, there’s just so much to see. I’m looking forward to it.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
Have fun, show our two films, see some good movies and some good bands, meet some people in the film industry, and maybe meet some girls.
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
For “Ode to Fredo,” my friend Tom DiMenna wrote a great spoof song taken from the “The Godfather.” And I like it because it’s funny, but also kind of tender, and just a fun song to listen to. And “Buttercup” tells the story of an upper-class family on the verge of implosion. And I think it’s interesting because it really tries to show everyone’s point of view without being judgmental or offering easy solutions. And it looks great. My brother Simon and our DP Nick Wong did an awesome job.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
Definitely all the short film sections and the music video section. Just because it’s harder to see that kind of stuff normally in theaters and it’s mostly what we’re working on right now. Also, “All the Boys Love Many Lane”, directed by Jonathan Levine, and “Knocked Up.” I’m a huge Judd Apatow fan, especially “Freaks and Geeks.”
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
To be honest, I don’t really know that much about Austin. I saw some of “Real World Austin,” but I don’t think that counts. My brother has some friends at UT, so I’m sure they will show us around a bit. But if anyone has any suggestions, I’m up for whatever.
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
Richard Linklater, “Dazed and Confused”; The South by Southwest Festival; “Texas Chainsaw Massacre”; “Real World Austin”; and “Friday Night Lights.”
Permalink | | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
SXSW Interview: Jeanne Stern, ‘Les Malaventures de Zut-Alors’
Director: Jeanne Stern
Film: “Les Malaventures de Zut-Alors”
Category: Experimental Shorts
Sites: SXSW
Screening: 5 p.m. Monday, March 12; 2 p.m. Friday, March 16; both at Dobie
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: “Zut-Alors” uses mechanical puppetry to tell the story of Siamese brother and sister, Zut & Alors. Includes many bizarre wonders, including a parade of animals, pop-up gardens, and party blower puppetry. Puppets and set made of old books, World War II gummed paper, crepe paper, bicycle bells and more.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
This is my first time having a film at SXSW. I’ve been to some free music shows before. My impression of SXSW — Austin is flooded by hipsters with matching black hair cuts.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
I haven’t had a chance to attend similar festivals, so it’s hard to say. I hope the film industry continues to grow in Austin because I would love to be able to stay here and work.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
Inspiration for my work, new friends, opportunities to share my work, new connections…
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
Because there are Siamese twins, a miniature parade of paper animals, and party blower puppetry. Plus, it was shot on 35mm film by the magnificent Jason Eitelbach.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
I’ve been so busy with my current film, I haven’t had a chance to look yet.
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
I live in Austin! The weather in Austin is so amazing in March, really anywhere outside — the botanical gardens, Zilker Park. I’d recommend renting a bicycle and taking a ride around.
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
Going to film school at UT.
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SXSW Interview: David Redmon, ‘Kamp Katrina’
Director: David Redmon
Film: “Kamp Katrina”
Category: Documentary Features (World Premiere)
Sites: SXSW
Screening: 12 p.m. Saturday; 2:30 p.m. Tuesday; both at Dobie
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: “Kamp Katrina” is a verite documentary set in post-Katrina New Orleans (yet, it is not a Hurricane Katrina film). The film follows Ms. Pearl, a 56-year-old Upper Ninth Ward resident and Native American, over the course of six months. Ms. Pearl enthusiastically offers her backyard and 10 people immediately move into “Kamp Katrina,” their self-made tent community. She ends up playing the role of bouncer, psychologist, nurse, mother, domestic abuse counselor, housing advocate, and even tourist in her beloved city.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
This is my first time at SXSW; we’re excited and thrilled to be part of the festival.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
I love Austin. In fact, I lived in Georgetown, TX (just down the street from Austin) for two years and spent almost all my time in Austin.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
A lot of screenings, new ideas for the next films, contacts with distributors, and distribution interest in “Kamp Katrina.”
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
Because it’s a well-crafted story and in-depth experience inside a world which you can’t stop thinking about after it ends.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
As many documentaries as possible.
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
Spiderhouse.
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
“The Texas Chainsaw Massacre;” “Paris, Texas;” “Cowboy Del Amor.”
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SXSW Interview: Erika Houle, ‘Devil Town Music Video’
Director: Erika Houle
Film: “Devil Town Music Video”
Category: High School Shorts
Sites: SXSW
Screening: 7 p.m. Friday, March 9; 5 p.m. Saturday, March 17; both at Dobie
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: A high-school student put together a music video together for this sincere song, mostly from stop-motion animation created in her laundry room lighted by a flashlight.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
No, I have attended the past two years. I have thoroughly enjoyed the unconventional and delightful world of independent film. As a young American, it is hard to find a fulfilling outlet for offbeat entertainment and SXSW is the perfect place to spend my spring break. I am rarely disappointed with any film shown at SXSW, as they only accept the most innovative and unique films.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
I have not attended any other film festivals, but I feel it would be hard to find one run as smoothly and filled with so many great films. I have lived and visited many places around the world and Austin definitely has the best movie venues I have ever experienced. From the Alamo Drafthouses to the Paramount and the Dobie, there is always something interesting showing and it is nice to find a break from the mainstream cinemas.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
As a young filmmaker, watching any film is a great way to learn about the business and the art. I hope to learn how to tell a story in a documentary from the panels and watching a few documentaries since I have a documentary taped and ready to edit. I also hope to meet people in the business and hear how they started and what kind of work they have done.
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
My film was simply made for my college application portfolio, but turned out to be much more than just a high-school kid video. It is an innovative mix of claymation and live action video. The song is of the local Austin legend, Daniel Johnston and sure to please any crowd. Most of all, everyone is shocked to find out that the entire video was taped in a laundry room.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
I have not looked at the schedule closely enough but the balloon-twisting documentary sounds very interesting.
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
If one wants to take a break from the screen, another great form of entertainment comes from Esther’s Follies on Sixth Street, a great show sure to please anyone. Any visitor should also be sure to hit South Congress Avenue for a relaxing stroll past funky shops and unique dining establishments. You really can’t go wrong turning down any street in Austin. There is sure to be a pleasant surprise around any corner.
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
Austin and the Alamo Drafthouses. This is the cultural hot spot of the entire South and one of the most exciting and safe cities in the country. If the East or West Coast is just too fast or polluted for you, Austin is definitely the perfect place to take a breath of fresh air and experience something completely different. Although I am attending NYU’s film school this coming fall, I know I will long for the trips back home to warm Austin.
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SXSW Interview: Kazuhiro Soda, ‘Campaign’
Director: Kazuhiro Soda
Film: “Campaign”
Category: Documentary Features (North American Premiere)
Sites: Official | SXSW
Screening: 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Austin Convention Center; 1:30 p.m. Tuesday at Alamo South; 1:30 p.m. Friday, March 16 at Alamo South
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: Can a candidate with no political experience and no charisma win an election if he is backed by the political giant Prime Minister Koizumi and his Liberal Democratic Party? This cinema-verite documentary closely follows a heated election campaign in Kawasaki, Japan, revealing the true nature of “democracy.”
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
Yes, this is my first time at SXSW, and I’m so excited!
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country and of Austin as a film town, in general?
So far, my impression on SXSW is that it has a very casual and friendly attitude despite the fact that it is one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals in the US.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
First of all, I’m looking forward to meeting the audience in Austin. SXSW is my North American premiere, so I’m curious how American people would respond to a documentary about a local election in Kawasaki, Japan. I’m also looking for a North American theatrical/DVD distributor to work with.
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
I had an unprecedented access to behind the scenes of an election campaign by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) which has been ruling Japan mostly for the past 50 years. It is just so rare to see it because they are usually very secretive and closed. I was lucky to gain such an access because the candidate I followed around was my old school mate! Campaign is also very funny and fun to watch (I believe).
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
There are so many movies I want to see at SXSW! Especially, I do not want to miss any of the election related movies such as “Running With Arnold,” “Election Day,” and “Run Granny Run.”
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
I have no idea where to go. Somebody, please show me around!
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
Richard Linklater’s “Slacker.” When I visited Austin for the first time to report the Crawford premiere of “Fahrenheit 911” as a Japanese TV correspondent, the cameraman I worked with happened to be Lee Daniel who shot “Slacker.” I was very surprised and honored.
Permalink | | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
SXSW Interview: Debbie Melnyk and Rick Caine, ‘Manufacturing Dissent’
Directors: Debbie Melnyk and Rick Caine
Film: “Manufacturing Dissent”
Category: Documentary Features (World Premiere)
Site: SXSW
Screenings: 9:30 p.m. Saturday, March 10 at The Paramount; 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 13 at Alamo South; 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 17 at Alamo South
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: “Manufacturing Dissent” seeks to separate fact, fiction and legend tracks Michael Moore on tour during the release of the explosive “Fahrenheit 911” (and the subsequent Slacker Uprising Tour and 2004 US election), all the while chronicling the politically supercharged climate in America that has fueled Moore’s transition from mere filmmaker to icon of the political left.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
We’re SXSW virgins, please be gentle with us! Although co-prod/co-dir Rick Caine lived in Austin in the early ‘80s and hopes to return to Raul’s to listen to the Big Boys and avoid anyone he still owes money.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
A little too early to say, see virgin thing above. But Austin being a film town you’re certainly on the map, damn you. We’re Toronto-based and our volume in terms of film production peaked in 2001 at $928 million and has been in steady decline since and was down another 23% last year to $594 million. So we’re kinda pissed off about it and if we can blame Austin that works pretty well for us. Don’t mess with Texas, we’ll see about that.
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
Other than cool chum like a swag bag and a SXSW t-shirt, some decent hangovers and hickies.
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
Because it’s not boring. We hate the way those kinds of films have ruined the name of docs.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
Yes. To name a few: “Third Ward, TX” about Houston’s Third Ward; the political doc “Running With Arnold” to see how that happened, another doc “Fall From Grace” about that nut bar Rev. Fred Phelps and his hate-mongering acolytes; “The Lookout”, we find Jeff Daniels one of the consistently best actors working today (OK maybe not “Dumb & Dumber” but, hey, a man’s gotta eat) and “Suffering Man’s Charity”, because Allan Cummings does remarkable things and a couple of cool and fun Canuck flicks: “Monkey Warfare” and “Trailer Park Boys”. And there are many tasty music events and music related films here which we hope to check.
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
We hope to go skinny dipping at Hippie Hollow (hey we’re Canuck we’ll swim no matter what temperature it is) and get hammered along 6th Street. Our nephew hopes to bump into LonelyGirl15 and give her a piece of his mind now that he knows she’s fake. Oh yeah and we’d like to play bongo drums with Matthew McConaughey while we’re in town.
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
“The Last Picture Show” and Cybill Shepherd before she could play Martha Stewart.
Permalink | Comments (3) | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
SXSW Interview: Jonathan Browning, ‘The Job’
Director: Jonathan Browning
Film: “The Job”
Category: Narrative Shorts
Sites: Official | SXSW
Screening: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 10; 1:30 p.m. Monday, March 12; 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 15; all at Alamo South
Film synopsis from SXSW.com: An off-beat look at one of the political hot-button issues of the year.
Is this your first time at SXSW? If not, what has your experience been like in previous years?
Not only is this my first time at SXSW, it’s my first film festival as a filmmaker. I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of this incredible festival.
What are your impressions of the festival compared to others of its kind around the country, and of Austin as a film town, in general?
Let me start by saying that the staff of SXSW has been incredibly supportive and amazingly helpful. As I said before, this is my initial foray into the film festival circuit. I’ve had a million questions and I’m sure I’ve broken every film festival etiquette in the book. But the good people at SXSW have done nothing but smile and help me out.
SXSW has a reputation for being a laid back festival for passionate professionals! I can’t begin to tell you how wonderful it is to tell people that we got accepted into the festival. Every single time, their eyes light up and they say, “That is the BEST festival!”
What do you hope to take away from your time at the festival?
I am really hoping to connect with other like-minded filmmakers. I’m coming to the festival with a short film, so the pressure to get a “huge distribution deal” isn’t there for me. I hope people enjoy the short, because it truly represents my sense of humor and my take on the world. If they like “The Job” and find it funny, there is a good chance they would like to hang out with me for a beer. The short was made because we have spent years surrounding ourselves with passionate talented artist. I am hoping to expand that circle to other filmmakers from around the world. Maybe that sounds like a naïve answer, but that’s what is so great about being naïve…you don’t know any better.
Why should audiences be excited to see your film?
I can tell you why we were excited to make it. Immigration is a hot button political issue, not only in California, but across the country. It was an issue that continues to divide people. Rather than come out and swinging on the issue, we thought it might be more effective to come out laughing. Our premise is a simple “what if” situation that is funny but will hopefully make people consider what it would be like to be in someone else’s shoes.
Are there any other films screening that you hope to see?
I love that you have the “other films” in the question. Otherwise we would all just say our own film. So I will buck that intention first and say that I am excited for my father to see my short. He has been incredibly supportive and was suppose to be in my film. But a family illness caused him to miss the shoot. Having him sitting beside me in the theatre is the next best thing to having him on the screen. With that said…I am very excited to see as many short film programs as I can get into. There are several great features at SXSW but I am a huge fan of the short film! I am constantly amazed by the ingenuity a short filmmaker must use to tell a story in a short amount of time. It is truly an art form in itself. I am a shorts groupie!
Any restaurants, parties, tourist locations you want to get to while in town? If you live in Austin, where do you suggest out-of-towners visit while in town?
The only other time I was in Austin was for an old friend’s wedding. So my Austin knowledge consist of a very cute Methodist Church and a very sad strip club.
I am very interested in recommendations made by the locals.
When you think of Texas and the movies, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?
Well, Robert Rodriguez is the five-ton gorilla in the Texas room.
Permalink | | Categories: SXSW Directors Interviews
