Congratulations on the release of DEMISE on Apple, Amazon, and many other platforms. That’s no easy task! Reflect on the journey from completing principal photography two years ago to now seeing it on the big screen! Did you realize back then how much of an impact the film would have today?
Thank you Vents Magazine. I had no idea on how much of an impact DEMISE would have today. Throughout this filmmaking journey, from pre-production to principal photography to spending about a year in post production, the process took every fiber of my being. For the majority of it, I was so focused on making a good film that I didn’t think about what happens after post production. With all the pressure, and endless tasks’ you can get overwhelmed. I took each phase of the process as it came, and let me tell you I feel like I’ve climbed Mount Everest.
What has been the most fulfilling part of working on the project?
The most fulfilling part is seeing my vision come to life. And secondly, connecting with the key crew members and actors who were instrumental to the success of our movie. It’s been an unforgettable experience. I’ve had the time of my life working with my team and it was bittersweet when the work ended.
Tell us about the obstacles you had to overcome to get distribution with Gravitas Ventures, which is one of the biggest names in distribution for independent filmmakers!
Aside from film financing, obtaining a distributor is the most difficult thing to accomplish. Fortunately, we engaged Ramo Law, a reputable entertainment law firm, to submit our film to multiple distributors. Gravitas liked what they saw and offered us a deal. Having the privilege to work with Gravitas is a miracle. As crazy as it sounds, making “delivery”to the distributor was one of the biggest obstacles that I had to overcome.
Talk about the reception so far. You have great reviews all across social media and in articles. What about the personal messages you’ve received from supporters who love what you’re doing?
I’m humbled by all the positive responses across the board. The best personal messages that I receive are from people who know how long I have been in the trenches to get my big break. Hearing how proud they are is a blessing. Aside from that, I get a real kick out of people who tell me that they loved the film so much that they’ve watched it two or three times!
How has DEMISE changed you as a storyteller? What did you learn about yourself as a creative that you will take with you for your future projects?
After going through the magic of editing, sound, music, and color, as a storyteller it was eye opening because I got to see first hand – all the possibilities of how the smallest details can change and enhance the final outcome of a picture. After working with Jeff Clayton (my composer) I’ve learned that I love being part of the musical soundtrack of a film. I chose about 90 percent of all the licensed songs that are in DEMISE, and working with Jeff on the original scores was tedious at times, yet really fun. Music is part of storytelling. Any picture that I get to direct from here on out, I one hundred percent would like to be part of the musical process.
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