This  interview comes from the land down under, he has turned his calling into a career, I speak of Itai Guberman.  Not exactly a household name yet but with his newest work Ivy winning multiple awards on it's festival circuit run, keep your eyes peeled for upcoming work from him.  He even created his own production company along the way, MyIndie Productions.  Itai has set a high bar for himself and he looks like he has a handle on it and is going full speed ahead.  Watch out for his future everything is looking great.  Without further ado I give you his questions:

     S:  1:  What was your primary reason for becoming an independent filmmaker?

     Itai (I):  1:  Well, that question can be answered from two directions. First, my reason for becoming a filmmaker is something that I’ve been thinking about ever since I can remember. I have been obsessed with film from a very young age, yet started making films fairly late (I made my first short when I was in my 30’s and went to film school at 36 or 37). Somehow, even though I started on a completely different career path (I completed a Business Degree at the age of 21), I still found my way back to film. I believe that in some way, it is my calling and what I love to do and so I simply have no choice. I have all these ideas and stories in my head that need to come out, so I must let them and film is my conduit for that.

Now, why I became an “independent” filmmaker is an almost separate question. The need to work freely and keep ownership of my ideas has prompted me to begin working independently. After starting my own production company, MyIndie Productions, the search for much needed funding for early projects was taking too long, so I decided to bite the bullet and self-fund in order to move forward. Thus far, I self-funded most of my projects, either by paying for them out of my own pocket, borrowing, or finding personal investors who so graciously agreed to support my work. This has allowed me the freedom to do what I do.

     S:  That is awesome.  To own your own and be your own boss, and to stretch yourself in self-funding is very heroic indeed.  That shows true passion for what you have done.

     S:  2:  You write, produce, and direct some of your films, any background in schooling for any of this?

     I:  2:  I started in film as a hobby, working completely from instinct and learning by watching and reading about film and production. In 2010, I finally made the decision to enroll in Film School and hone my skills. I completed my Masters in Film and Television at Tel-Aviv University in 2015.

     S:  Wow this is inspiring to all young filmmakers, with or without college passion and desire will take you to sometimes unfamiliar ground but it's baby steps turning into leaps and bounds.  Schooling obviously helped hone your skills.

     S:  3:  Which of your films is your best to date, you believe, from whatever you did for it (write, direct, or produced)?

     I:  3:  That is a tough question. Working with my production partner, Asaf Angel, our goal is to improve from project to project. In that regard, I feel that the psychological horror short, “Ivy”, which we recently completed, is our best thus far. My writing is improving, as do our abilities on set and even the equipment we use from film to film. “Ivy” has been a combination of these things which have resulted in the highest visual production value and complex storytelling we have produced thus far.

     S:  It has to be hard to deny after all the awards it is winning on festival circuit.

     S:  4:  Is there a "job" in filmmaking you like best?

     I: 4:  The areas I enjoy most are both writing and directing. I hope to concentrate on these more in the future and slowly do less of the producing, promoting, etc., which I do now out of necessity.

     S:  I can see why it's the most creative aspect of a film, without a great story, or direction, a movie can fall flat.

     S:  5:  What is your all-time favorite horror film?

     I:  5:  Another tough question. If I absolutely had to name a few, I’d probably go with John Carpenter’s “The Thing” (1982), Edgar Wright’s horror comedy “Shaun of the Dead” (2004), Kubrick’s “The Shining” (1980), Danny Boyle’s “28 Days Later” (2002) and Neil Marshall’s “The Descent” (2005). Though not considered specifically as horror by some, I’d also include “Aliens” (1986), “Pitch Black” (2000) and “Predator” (1987).

     S:  All great films couldn't go wrong any night with one of those.

     S:  6:  What do most people not know about you?

     I: 6:  For the most part, I’m an open book. What you see is what you get, whether in person or online. Most of my friends know that, but some of my online friends might not know, I obsessively follow the NBA. I have been a huge basketball fan for over 30 years now and I also used to play on various teams in Australia up to my early to mid-30’s.

In addition, I am also very much into Rock Music. Have been for many years and still am. I still enjoy listening to classic rock, hard rock, metal, grunge, alternative, etc.

     S:  I would have never seen that coming, and that's my music baby.

     S:  7:  You've worked with a wide variety of people, is there someone you would love to work with in front, or behind the camera?

I guess you mean people who have been out of reach for someone like myself thus far… Well, behind the camera, I’m not sure. There are many great directors and cinematographers, make-up people, stunt people, etc., that I hope to have the chance to work with one day. As for in front of the camera, I have some script ideas that would be perfect for actors like Michael Fassbender, Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Shannon, Ben Foster, Thomas Jane, Kristen Stewart, Natalie Portman and Elisabeth Moss. One can dream 😊

     S:  Dream big my friend all are quality actor/actresses couldn't fault any choice there.

     S:  8:  Has there been any one person who has affected your filmmaking career in the best way?

     I:  8:  My entry into the world of filmmaking was greatly affected by my first production partner, Peter Angel. Our shared love of cinema got us to the point that we began writing scripts and shooting films. Having the support of a partner at the time, was invaluable and it may not have happened the way it did had Peter not been there. Once Peter and I parted ways, due to family commitments on his part, I put filmmaking aside for a while before certain books and films assisted in reigniting the creative juices.

Indie filmmakers such as the Duplass Brothers, Joe Swanberg and Andrew Bujalski helped me realize that I can do more with less and I began writing scripts in a variety of genres, from comedy and drama to thrillers and horror, keeping in mind that if I keep the locations, number of actors, crew, etc., contained to as little as possible, I may be able to make these films.

With that in mind, I made a few shorts in film school - two thrillers in particular (“Dolphin”, a revenge thriller and “Third Temple”, a political thriller) - which made me understand the production requirements for making higher production valued films. Both films mentioned are currently on Stream Now TV, an indie film streaming site run by Ron Valderrama (the Founder and CEO), whom I befriended online and after we chatted, wanted to see the films. After seeing them, he liked them so much that are now exclusively featured on the site.

     S:  that is networking at it's finest.  Every person you meet or talk to has good things to say I would friend them, we need to keep things up no bashing of films.  This is a niche group of individuals that look to inspire I haven't seen a independent film that doesn't have some merit.

     S:  9:  What director has inspired you the most?

     I:  9:  My favorite director is probably Krzysztof Kieslowski. I think he was an absolute filmmaking genius and is grossly underrated. Because I follow a varied array of genres, I have also been inspired by the liked of Sergio Leone, Sam Peckinpah, John Carpenter, Jim Jarmusch, John Sturges, Sidney Lumet, Walter Hill, George Romero, The Coen Brothers, Mel Brooks, David Fincher, Paul Thomas Anderson, Quentin Tarantino and Denis Villenueve, among others.

     S:  I have heard that name before but never had the chance to look him up, I think it's time that's changed.

     S:  10:  You have many films done and out, I will give you the stage, to speak of future projects you have lined up to do in the future, because I feel you've built a solid fan base and they would love to know what's coming soon, me too?

     I:  10:  A couple of months ago, under MyIndie Productions, we released the short psychological horror, “Ivy”, which is currently doing the festival rounds. It has, in a short time, been made an official selection at five festivals, thus far.

For our next project, I have written a feature-length horror anthology that we are in the process of shooting. We have thus far completed principal shooting of two out four stories and intend to look for funding to complete the remaining two next year. The film is a post-apocalyptic horror that we hope will strike a chord with a large audience of horror followers as well as ones who are not specifically horror fanatics.

If we do not manage to find the funding necessary, we will likely try the crowd funding route. Either way, as I have done with all my recent projects thus far, I intend to complete this horror feature and get it out to audiences as soon as possible.

     S:  I love post-apocalyptic horror and action films, I can't wait for that to get done and out.

Well I hope you've enjoyed this conversation with Itai Guberman, his Ivy has won awards on the festival circuit and still has more festivals to cover.  This interview I found insightful and inspiring, I hope you've enjoyed it also.  Below are pictures that were passed along for all to enjoy hope everything is going well my friends.














Just a few of his posters for previous movies and Ivy on festival circuit now with added credits to festivals and just won another award in Hotlanta Horror film fest for ensemble cast!!!!!






I wish to thank Itai Guberman for taking the time for this awesome interview and many a great films coming from him soon!!!!!!!


SUPPORT INDIE FILMMAKERS

     Sorry for all the delays have had more medical issues come up but enough, he isn't new to filmmaking but still hasn't gotten the recognition he deserves yet.  I speak of Lewis Leslie, he has been out there making damn quality films for years, with some decent, lesser-known actors in the biz.  I personally hate that word, everybody is good, they need the right direction to bring it out.  But Hollywood is such a "name" game it irritates me.  After all people like Lewis know what they want and pull it out of his actors for your screen enjoyment.  I hope this interview you find insightful and check out his work, if nothing else.  He won't quit so stand up and take notice.  His ten questions are as follows:

     S:  1:  When did you decide filmmaking was your calling?

     Lewis (L)  1:  I've been studying and practicing screenwriting for over a decade, and I dabbled in producing on a couple of small projects before realizing that I wanted to take a shot at directing. In 2010, I directed the grindhouse/horror film "Killer Ink", which features a cameo by Peter Mayhew, who played Chewbacca in Star Wars. After that, I was hooked. I started doing film contests, where I would write, produce, and direct each project. To date, I have directed fourteen short films, and four features, with the fifth filming by the end of the year.

     S:  That is awesome I only found you on Facebook and still need to practice what I preach and look up your films for my personal enjoyment.

     S:  2:  Did you ever attend a film school or screen writing classes?

     L: 2:  I did not attend film school, but I have taken some online screenwriting classes, and read numerous books on the subject. I like to keep up to speed by reading screenwriting books and online articles, though I find the best way to improve is by writing. I have written around 20 features, and Lord only knows how many shorts. I don't write every day like some people recommend, but when I do wrote, I dive in, and can churn out pages like nobody's business.

     S:  I tried that and I agree everyday something comes up but I continue to plug away at it someday I hope one of my stories strikes a fancy and can get filmed.

     S:  3:  Have you ever used a crowdfunding campaign to assist in funding?

     L:  3:  I have tried crowdfunding a few times with minimal success, although I do plan to use crowdfunding to partially fund my next feature film "The Dying Fields", which we're shooting this fall. That should be live some time in July, so keep an eye out for that. I find that it works better when you have a team working with you to get the furthest reach.

     S:  Well it took so long for me to get this up, it may be up now or soon, check it out and reward yourself by helping get quality films made.

     S:  4:  What is your favorite horror film?

     L:  4:  That is a very good question. There are so many that I enjoy, but if I had to choose one, I would choose two: A Nightmare on Elm Street & Evil Dead. The character of Freddy Krueger is the definition of iconic, and the style and mix of terror and comedy displayed in Evil Dead have been copied for years since. Both films are tons of fun, and they never get old.

     S: These two choices are great for exactly what you said, love both myself.

     S:  5:  When did you come up with the idea to start Dream Hero Productions? 

     L:  5:  I had actually been operating another production company for a few years, but when my then business partner turned what could have been a great production into an absolute nightmare by lying about funding, locations, and contracts, it was definitely time to move on. I was down in the dumps, and my dream needed saving; thus birthing Dream Hero Productions, and a new partnership with producer Tim Koger that has been going very well for a couple of years now.

     S:  Sometimes all it takes are the right people in the right position to make everything go as planned.

     S:  6:  You've had the pleasure of working with Peter Mayhem (Chewbacca), and the B-movie legend Bill Oberst Jr, If you had your choice, who would be your greatest actor/actress to work with?

     L:  6:  Without question Jake Gyllenhaal. Donnie Darko is my favorite film, followed closely by Fight Club. Jake always pours his heart and soul into every role, and he has portrayed a wide variety of crazy, complex characters. For my money, he's the best actor of our generation, plus he's not afraid to go dark, which is something that has always interested me. If we're talking more on the indie level, Bill Moseley is at the top of my bucket list. Let's make a movie, Bill!

     S:  I can't agree more Jake has something about him that turns every character he plays real.  And Bill what more could you ask for he is twisted professional.

     S:  7:  Who would you consider your directing hero?

     L:  7:  Wes Craven, John Carpenter, JJ Abrams, Spielberg, and so many more. But, if I had to choose one, I would have to go with David Fincher. Fight Club, Seven, The Social Network, Gone Girl, Zodiac (with Jake Gyllenhaal), Alien 3, The Game. All of these movies have rocked my world in one way or another. Fincher's style is undeniable, and his eye for talent is unmistakable. While I haven't loved 100% of the films he's made, I have to say that I am always intrigued by his dark atmospheres, and the dynamic depth of characters in his films.

     S:  You and thousands of others he can take any subject and twist it to love or hate certain people, he has that quality I spoke of pulling out the character of everyone.

     S:  8:  What do most people not know about you?

     L:  8:  While I am more well known for my horror and thriller films, I am a family man, and I also work on faith-based films. I'm a lover, not a fighter, but I do enjoy delving deep into the psyche of morbid characters, who commit atrocious acts that I myself could not imagine seeing in person.

     S:  I see your point you can't just create the horror, when kids get involved they want to see good quality films too.

     S:  9:  Of any movie, which would you like to write and direct a sequel to?

     L:  9:  It's not the biggest franchise or anything, but I have always loved the story and creature in Jeepers Creepers. I would love to work on a Creeper film. I know a lot of people have issues with the current writer/director, so hey, why not give me a shot? They are supposedly going to be releasing a new film soon, but I'd be happy to take the reins after that.

     S:  I do have issues with him once the information was released, but was a big fan of them earlier.  You taking over as the writer/director would greatly please this fan.

     S:  10:  How would you label your directing style?

     L:  10:  When I direct a film, I put the largest part of my focus on working and adapting with the actors involved in the project. We have table reads, meetings, and phone calls to make sure we're on the same page. I want to ensure that my vision is clear, and that we are here to tell the same story. You can have amazing cinematography for affordable prices these days, so what really makes you stand out, in my opinion, outside of the story, is the performances by the actors. Everything about filmmaking is a collaboration. Writers, directors, and actors get far too much credit for successful projects, and too much blame for ones that are not seen as a success. It takes a group of people working toward the same goal to get a movie made, and if you're not all making the same movie with the same vision, it's going to be a lot harder to get your film to come out the way you want it to.

     S:  That is absolutely right, the same goes in Hollywood, I believe they love to rehash the same old story with new actors.  And all the blame goes to the stars he/she can't open a movie.  How about your retread vision for the umpteenth time.  Independent filmmakers get no credit in Hollywood but the film festivals are where it's at.  Word of mouth is worth more than babble babble babble.

Hope you fully enjoyed that interview, was awesome I think below is a list of his films available, check out "Dying Fields" on the crowdfunding front, help a fellow filmmaker out.  All is appreciated we all someday want more great films to be made.  Thank You Lewis Leslie it was my pleasure to interview such a class act.

"Killer Ink" (grindhouse/horror) available on Amazon, as is "Tales From the Vault", a collection of short films that I wrote & directed. I have directed numerous shorts, and I have 3 features in post-production:

"Strange Company" (psychological drama): After the apocalypse, a grieving recluse is visited by a desperate woman who draws him out of his home, and forces him to confront his inner turmoil.

"Battered (female-led revenge thriller)": After Piper's alcoholic boyfriend sends her to the hospital, she joins a group of battered women who decide to kill their exes, only to discover that these guys won't go down without a fight.

"Visceral" (supernatural thriller): When eight strangers wake up in a room with no windows or doors, they must work together to determine why they are there, and how they can escape.

     I have been doing my best as the Lone Wolf on this blog since It's inception.  I feel I've done a decent job considering my health issues, but anyhow this wolf has been thrown, what I feel is a thick meaty thigh bone.  This newest one has the most meat on it yet.  My friend David Black and Tritia DeViSha (Trish) gave me the opportunity to announce that their newest project as horror hosts of the newest horror compilation show Horror House has been picked up by Foxtel Aurora and will be seen all over Australia.  They also allowed me to witness the depravity of their pilot episode.  WOW.  This would never flu on American TV at all, blood, guts, nudity.  The stories highlight some of the great talent Australia has to offer.  They were all awesome and given this highlight, the rest should be great, too.  As far as Horror Hosts go these too have great chemistry and the strange ability and twisted sense of humor that fits between each short just right.  They offered me another round of 10 questions so of course I accepted so her we go:

     Steve (S) 1:  How long have you both been in the film industry?

     David (D) 1:  For me one year in film industry as an actor/producer/director, but I go way back to the entertainment industry's to the 1980's.  I've also been in a horror rock band Darkness Visible since 1994 and organized our first of 9 music videos.

     Trish (T) 1:  1. Quite a while… I started acting in 2003, & presenting & producing from 2004, so it’s easily well over a decade, though I’ve had various breaks in between doing other things like travel & live performance for a few years.

     S:  Wow that's been awhile for both of you I wish to get into the "biz" at some time.

     S: 2:  Is this the first horror TV show made by Australians for Australians?

     D: 2:  The first hosted horror show made by Australians  that I can remember was Deadly Earnest.  It was a TV that ran from around 1961-1978.  It didn't feature Australian horror movies though.  Prior to our project, there have been other that only know I am becoming aware of such as Dark Carnival https://www.facebook.com/groups/darkcarnivalshortfilms/,

     T:  2:  2,3,4,5. David can answer those He’s more versed up on the history of the Horror shows, he’s like the horror show history guru, & Horror House is his brainchild The amount of work he has put into it has been amazing.

     S: David you know your history pretty well for falling into it.

     S: 3:  Who inspired you to this sort of TV/film work you have done?

     D: 3:  I can't say anyone inspired me.  I sort of fell into it when I was invited to be an extra on Cult Girls.  It came along at just the right time as I was just getting over bouts of exhaustion that I had been suffering from when I had cancer.  Suddenly a whole new world had opened to me with acting in the local movie industry, and I was off and running. https://www.facebook.com/cultgirlsfilm/.

     S:  Glad to hear your cancer free bud, and I also fell into it when an old friend said she wrote a TV/Drama that she wanted to pitch and wrote the asshole role cause she knew I could do it. lol.

     S: 4:  Who came up with the Horror House idea initially?

     D: 4:  I came up with the idea of Horror House. It started off with thought that producers of short horror movies were not able to get DVD distribution because you need a feature for a DVD. By joining them together in a hosted horror show, I would be able to do this. After making enquiries with distributors, it seemed that the cost involved in authoring, getting artwork made, getting ratings done vs returns from distribution, made this unlikely. Creating this as a TV show was more doable.

     S:  That is awesome cause those shorts were excellent and people need to learn the up-and-comers by name to look out for future projects.

    

     S: 5:  Did you both contribute to the Horror House show before it was decided to pitch it to TV
executives and eventually picked up by Foxtel Aurora for broadcast across Australia?

     D:  5:  Trish has contributed quite a bit, but she was brought in after it was decided to pitch it to Foxtel Aurora. The plan on where to pitch it was put together within a minute of me mentioning that I would like to do this show on my Facebook page. I am good friends with Adam of Bosworth Entertainment and he contacted me immediately to say that the idea was a winner and his entertainment company wanted it. He already had his plans in place.

     T:  5. (additional) Hahaha, my original contribution to horror house was my experimental short film “The Kali Geisha Erotica Grotesque”, which David asked if he could screen as one of the shorts on his pilot, when he was conceptualizing, way before I was brought on as Co-host!

     S:  Well at least he brought in the best quality host he could you two have great chemistry on screen.

     S: 6:  Was there a group of some sort to pick the shorts for the pilot or just you both?

     D:  6:  The selection of films has been open to all in the work group since the beginning. Not everyone has chosen to watch films and give feedback, but for those who have, the decisions have been made by consensus.

     T:  6:   This is David’s brainchild like I said, so basically I only came on board towards the end when the pilot was nearly ready to be shot & needed a Mistress Boobyanna, so besides knowing that my film & David’s were going to be screened, I was not really involved in the selection process for the shorts in the pilot.

      S:  Well I must say he made great choices all around from the films to his co-host.

      S: 7:  How do you feel this is making you grow as a filmmaker, sorting through the hundreds of
shorts submitted trying to find the most intense ones for airing?

     D:  7:  The whole process has been helping me grow as a film maker because I am working with a great team. Everyone has been patient with me and I am learning from everyone from my co host to the sound guy, to the editor ... basically from everyone.

     T:  7:  I have a short attention span, if something doesn’t grab me within the first 20-30seconds, I tend to turn it off. lol. Especially for short films. Features I tend to give them maybe 2-3minutes leeway before I turn it off. Unless it has been highly recommended to me to watch to the end. We are only given so much time in this world.  Reminds me of when I was hosting a music TV show years ago, we’d get thousands of music videos in from bands regularly. For short films I would watch for things like acting, production quality, storyline, artistic merit, creativity, originality, etc. & then you can also create subsections or specials, so I guess as we have access to a wider catalogue we can maybe start to theme our shows as well. So I don’t think I’m particularly growing as a filmmaker watching them, but I guess for me it’s just another avenue to be able to have fun with cool people & be part of a great project & another avenue to express creatively & play a fun character.

     S:  You both had solid answers to that being from two very different perspectives, I like the honesty.

     S: 8:  You obviously have a lot looser executives in Australia cause this show would have never
made the air in American TV households?

      D:  8:  Aurora is a community channel with Foxtel. I grew up with our community channels having an "everything goes" attitude. If it was foreign, weird, full of sex and violence, it was always on the community station.

     T:  8:   I don’t know, I have no idea what execs want, but wouldn’t necessarily say that it wouldn’t make it to US screens, because even though the content on HH is more MA/R rated, mainstream timeslot shows, even like Game of Thrones on HBO are pretty graphic these days, so never say never.

     S:  Yeah but that over here Is a premium service channel, so it costs extra to have with your normal cable, due to some extreme programming.

     S: 9:  Who is your filmmaker idol?

     D:  9:  I have 2 idols for Australian film makers. Both active and both in Ozploitation,  Daniel Armstrong and Stuart Simpson. Daniel has produced at least 4 features and my favourite so far is The Sheborg Massacre. My favourite Stuart Simpson movie is Chocolate Strawberry Vanilla.

     T:   9. Australian filmmaker idols? Hmmm… I never thought about it. I don’t actually have an Australian filmmaking idol tbh. I am predominantly an actress first, & so my idol was always Angelina Jolie, and as I get older, Jada Pinkett. My filmmaking idols are Quentin Tarantino & Guy Ritchie, but Australian I guess maybe Baz Lurhman because of his beautiful imagery & I am a very visual person. & whoever made Bad Boy Bubby (1994) way back in the day cos that movie is so twisted I still remember it to this day. & the guy who made Gods of Egypt. Kudos to him for getting such a budget to make the film. We need more budgets like that in Australia & I would love to get a budget like that to make a fantasy film one day.
Though I would have to say my Indy Australian filmmaking MENTOR, not necessarily idol, is definitely Nathan Hill, I have learnt so much about making Indy films from working with him & watching him work.

     S:  I honestly have never heard of most of those, of course Tarantino, Ritchie, Pinkett, and Jolie I've been watching since Cyborg days, but the others I will need to look up, from your recommendations of course.

      S:10:  As the Horror House Host/Hostess who comes up with all the jokes in your skits?

     D:  10:  Trish and I have both come up with the material. I've provided the start with each segment, but then we discuss it, try things out and alter it. Some is also really on the spot. E.g. Trish was supposed to squirt milk in my face with a fake penis prop. It was her idea, straight out of the blue, to shove the penis in my mouth and move it in and out.


     T:  10:   Hahaha most of the jokes originate out of David’s twisted little mind. He has all the props, & writes a whole list of joke ideas around them, so once he’s compiled a list of jokes, then I just go over & bounce ideas & then we expand the jokes & script, try them out to see what works & then lock in the best things for the show. I love it cos it’s ‘no holds barred’ and we can just take it as far as we want. It’s so fun & crazy!

     S:  That is lovely blame it all on David, being sick and twisted, lol, and who jammed what, where in the impromptu moment, lol.

     That was a great interview between the three of us.  They have the great ability to joke around like kids, and their choices on films were excellent.  I look forward to seeing what either Twisted David, and Tantalizing Trish has in store for the future of film.  I hope everyone searches them out and supports them and the many others keeping independent film alive.  Thanks David and Trish for the interview and patience with me.

Pictures coming soon

     I found this woman during a recent monster walk in a local town, she had her vendor table set up.  She had a unique style of art I hadn't noticed yet, running late, I handed her my card and asked about interview, she was overjoyed.  Someone noticed me and my skills and really is interested in writing an interview with me, must have flowed through her brain.  Sarah Mcgee is such an artist, I speak of, she is on all forms of social media (details at end), selling all different types of horror in multiple sizes and always willing to accept commission work (which I have done).  In the following days I have gotten things done and straightened out so here are her 10 questions: 

     S:  1:  When did it occur to you that you had such talent?

     Sarah McGee (SM)  1:   I've messed with art since I was in middle school. But really got obsessed my junior year of high school. Always had a Stephen King novel and a sketchbook in my purse. It started as my way of blocking out the bullies. 

     S:  That's an excellent way to detract yourself from bullying.  People (kids) need to find other passages to express themselves than killing themselves or bullies, try art, writing, or reading many fine things to start with if your not athletically gifted.

     S:  2:  How do you decide who or what to draw (non-commission)?

     SM:  2:  Sometimes the themes of upcoming events help me decide. Or if there's an anniversary of a cool movie, show, etc. coming up. Other times I pick from whatever I've been jonesing to draw. My ever growing list had about 30 items or themes last time I checked.

     S:  What an excellent answer, I love jonesing a lot never sure but once you start getting it all done is a personal problem of mine, that's why I have many stories on paper but only one finished haha.

     S:  3:  Have you ever tried other forms of art, like painting, etc......?

      SM:  3:  Yes, but nothing else really stuck. Painting was too messy. Pastels got everywhere. This medium just suited me. And the style fit my weird brain.

     S:  Well personally then we all have a weird brain lol.  You at least tried other mediums to find your fit which is unique.

     S:  4.  What is your favorite horror movie ever?

     SM:  4:  I know it's schticky, but Army of Darkness. All of the Evil Dead movies are pretty rad, actually. I'm a big time Bruce Campbell fan girl!

     S:  That's awesome I too love Bruce Campbell fan.  All those movies are classics, you couldn't go wrong with any of them.  Bruce is great because he never takes himself too seriously.

     S:  5:  What design is your favorite classic monsters, holiday themes, or music stars?

     SM:  5:  Horror, but comic theme is a close second actually. My drawing of Ash from Evil Dead was my first and favorite of the modern horror genre. I do like to break things up with a pet portrait now and then though!

     S:  Classic horror chic, great, collected comics when I was young and now enjoy watching comic movies, and some of the TV shows, and who doesn't love pets.  Everybody has a animal they want or have to call family.

     S:  6:  Did you have any formal schooling to hone your talent?

     SM:  6:  I went to Kent State for a year, pressured to do graphic design. Couldn't get into it.  Computer art wasn't and still really isn't my thing. Went to LCCC for a bit as well. But most of this was self taught.

     S:  Sure college didn't work, cause they want this or that, you have to unbridle my passion don't hold me back.  Let people go do what they want, feeling comfortable is better than unsure of what your doing.

     S:  7:  How did you learn about dotting as an art form?

     SM:  7:  In high school. My favorite art teacher showed us how Christmas card design for the year and it was in that style. Loved it. And the card idea, which I also did for a while. That got me more familiar with certain supplies and methods that have evolved into what I do now. Minus the "normal" holiday cards. For the most part lol.

     S:  You had a great art teacher, which I had too, but I still never seen or heard of "dotting" but I was definitely intrigued by it.  Who wouldn't want a non-conventional holiday card, that would be great.

     S:  8:  Tell us something most folks don't know about you?

     SM:  8:  I collect cookie cutters. This started when I ran a pet bakery as a side biz a while back. We have more critters than kids in my family, so it just made sense to me to make goodies for the fur kids. 

     S:  Now that's a new one on me, people collect the strangest things, but cookie cutters?  Although I collect some weird stuff too, nothing really that "normal" lol.

     S:  9:  How long does it take, on average, for one piece depending on the different sizes?

     SM:  9:  The average time it takes for me to complete an 8x10 is 8 hrs, from sketch to final color. I have had a few 9x12s take me well over 11 hrs before. I just started my first 18x24...that time frame should be interesting!

     S:  That's surprising to me, I figured it would take longer.  But then again 8 hours is a solid days work and considering you get 1 picture done, that sounds right, I guess.

     S: 10:  Of all the pieces you've done, commission or not, which is your favorite from start to finished product?

     SM:  10:  The skull and cherry blossom piece is my fave. It was my first attempt at a skull. It was done about 3 yrs ago, and still gets a good response from folks. Which is why I do this. The smiles, tears, cringes....all worth it. If they don't respond to the art, what's the point?

     S:  That is very true art is meant to inspire some sort of feeling or reaction.  Your favorite piece actually surprises me, I figured it would be a horror film shot of some sort, maybe that's the "girly" side of you coming out lol.

    Hope you all enjoyed that interview, it was a pleasure of mine to do, for sure.  I wish to thank Sarah for her time and patience with me, I hope it all goes well.  Please send her some business, she does excellent work in a unique style. Info for her will be posted underneath.  I am not biased in any way I paid for my artwork (no freebies) she has skills. 

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     I would consider this man a great voice in the horror genre, even though he makes no-budget to micro-budget films.  He gives his all without expecting a profit, he does it for the love of it.  I speak of Chad Nelson Knauer, indie filmmaker, and all around do whatever necessary, for his dreams of horror films to be done.  I enjoyed giving him his 10 questions and the answers are very insightful, so without further ado: 

     S:  1.  What made you decided to make no-budget horror films?

      Chad Nelson Knauer: 1: Filmaking has always been a passion and hobby of mine. When I was a kid I got a PXL 2000 (a B&W camera that recorded video on audio cassette tapes) as a Christmas present in the 80's. I've been hooked ever since!

     S:  Man what i wouldn't have given to have your parents, lol.

     S:  2.  How many films have you done no-budget?

     CNK:  2:  Dozens! The first projects I've publicly released were fan films. I've helped out on many other projects with local filmmakers. The next two works in progress are Murder Clown: 1985. Which filming has wrapped and is currently in post production. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=BFwIn2OXNXA ;

And Skeleton Cop. That one is still being filmed. 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=7qUNx5_UBbI

     S:  Wow i must head off to see these and possibly work with you on a future project.

     S:  3.  What is, the greatest thing you've learned from your experience?

     CNK:  3:  Safety first. We are big fans of practical effects. Some of these effects come with a serious element of danger if proper safety procedures are not followed. Such as blank guns or fire stunts for example.

     S:  That is the greatest answer i have heard ever, everybody needs to be safe even Hollywood stunt people use and practice safety.  Look at how many actors/actresses have been killed or seriously injured on films.  Great answer!

     S:  4.  What is your all-time favorite horror film?

     CNK:  4:  John Carpenter's The Thing!

     S:  I can't believe of all the interviews I've conducted nobody has ever said that answer, such a classic piece of film work, that probably will never be duplicated.

      S:  5.  Who would you consider your directing "idol"?

      CNK:  5:  That's a tough one! For me, it's a three way tie between Mctierman, Verhoeven, and the Coens!

      S:  That is a nice list, but the Coens, really don't fit, but they have their own style that is for sure.  Just surprising that no horror directors made your list, but it is your opinion and I can't deny your choices they are good.

      S:  6.  Do you direct, act, and write all your films?

      CNK:  6:  No, everything has been a collaborative effort with the people in our group!

     S:  It's awesome to have quality people willing to go the extra mile for one vision.

     S:  7.  Have you ever considered a crowdfunding campaign to get some "real" actors and money?

     CNK:  7:  I think everyone has contemplated that at some point. In my opinion, it's an amazing time to be working in low/no budget films do to the advancements in consumer technology. The times of having to rely on a studio system and distribution companies to have your project created and seen is a relic from the past! The Internet has leveled the playing field for artists to get their work to the public.

     S:  Yes i agree, I was in a film group for a while,  even assisted one a couple of projects on Youtube now.  The group seemed to level off with more discussion than work getting done, that is why I left. But would love to get involved again in a group of action and planning not so much talk.     

  

     S:  8.  Tell us something most people don't know about you?

     CNK:  8:  I spend hours and hours listening to creative Commons music, hoping to find a diamond in the rough! Haha!

     S:  I  don't even know what that is so the jokes on me. Haha!

     S:  9.  How long does it take to film one movie, speaking of no-budget wise?

     CNK:  9:  For me, At least a year for a short film. Sometime longer. Like the saying goes, fast-good-cheap, best you can hope for is two of the three.

     

     S:  You should always aim for all three, but two out of three ain't bad, quality doesn't always come with money either.

     S:  10.  Which movie that is getting a sequel (hypothetically) would you want to direct?

     CNK:  10:  Shin Godzilla. I've always loved giant monster movies and would love a go at one!

     S:  I have never seen it but do love old school Godzilla films, so I will agree with it.

 

     These are a few images of his greatness, looks amazing for his budget restrictions.  I want to thank Chad Nelson Knauer for giving me this opportunity for another quality interview from another great voice in indie circuit.  Be sure to check out his Youtube videos (i need to myself).  SUPPORT INDIE HORROR

    This is a special interview with a photographer, actor, director, and film fest organizer I am talking to George James Fraser.  He has acted in movies, also directed movies, but right now has his Happenstance Film Fest coming soon.  He is doing his part for the indie horror scene from all he does and has done photography also with his company Stained Glass & Blood Baths.  He is soon to be a force to be reckoned with soon.  I'm glad from the bottom of my bleeding heart he accepted my invitation for this interview.  Here goes his 10:

      S:  1:  What lead you into the realm of horror?

      George James Fraser (GJF)  1:  I was just kind of born into horror i guess. Ever since i was a little punk toddler i remember being drawn to the darker stories that the universe had to offer. It has just always been there. I spent my days sharpening stakes and hunting invisible vampires in the creek near my home. I read and did a report on Shelley's Frankenstein in the second grade.

     2:  How long have you been running The Happenstance Film Fest?

     GJF:  This is my second year organizing the fest. This year is fixing to be 10 times what we had last year. With special guests, vendors, raffles, and some special surprises.

     S:  Surely sounds great, almost like a mini-convention.

      3:  What made you feel another horror film fest was needed?

     GJF:  The way the world is set up, especially here in the states, the artists go unseen. Capitalism and consumerism are the gods here and Hollywood is the holy word. The independent artists need to carve their own paths, climb their own towers, and stamp their own mark. Because they have something to say. I feel i needed to supply an arena to help to shine some light where mainstream media ignores.

      S:  That is truly one artist speaking from the heart. Awesome.

      4:  What is your all-time favorite horror film ever?

     GJF:  This is the most difficult question. I could probably tell you which of my 3 children is my favorite before i could answer that. In no particular order.

In the Mouth of Madness

Hellraiser 1&2

NOES

The Blob 1988

Shivers

     S:  That is the oddest list I have seen great movies but a few I haven't seen, but am now on the lookout.

     5:  Stained Glass and Blood Baths is an idea you came up with or was it a collaborate effort?

     GJF:  SG&BB as a production company is something I began unnamed for a while. I delved into the world of cinema not knowing where to begin. I knew what I wanted the result to be so from there it was basically just reverse engineering. The name Stained Glass and Blood Baths has been a motto of mine through most of my life. The balance of the beautiful and the grotesque. The light and the dark. The good and the evil.

     S:  Nice motto, and you done a great service to the horror community, with all the photos alone I have seen.  You definitely have the eye for what is awesome.

     6:  How long have you been acting?

     GJF:  The acting only began as a means for me to learn how things worked on a set. Mostly just studies that would lead to me running a set of my own. It only lasted a couole years and now i really only do it from time to time to help out friends with their projects.

     S:  At least you went about it the right way, learning from the inside out, at least that's the way I did it.  I do believe it is more helpful.

     7:  Do you feel you prefer directing over acting?

 

     GJF:  I 100% prefer working behind the camera than in front of it. Seeing my imagination being played out it real life. God complex I suppose.

     S:  I don't think so, you have a vision to see it fully through is pride I believe not a God complex.  Everyone who is doing what they love wants the best for themselves first, that may seem selfish to some but I can't agree more.

     8:  What is something most people don't know about you?

     GJF:  Most people assume that because I put myself front stage in the spotlight I must be an extrovert. In fact I am rather reserved and comfortable in solitude.

I hate mushrooms though, as a chef, it angers me to do so.

If Taylor Swift is playing, I am singing.

     S:  A chef too wow, and sorry I must laugh at the Taylor Swift thing, I understand the first one way too well.

     9:  How do pick one film over another for festival, is some sort of method to the madness?

     GJF:  I could never imagine running a festival that was open to all genres. There are just so many aspects to consider. Even with just horror the spectrum is infinite. I look for thibgs that stand out. Points for originality but also respect to a classic theme done right. If a piece makes me feel something, its a winner.

     S:  That is very judge like, honest and fair, I would appreciate that once I have a film "in the can".

     10:  Do you prefer the film or photography aspect of your company Stained Glass and Blood Baths?

     GJF:  It is hard to choose one over the other. Still photography is such a beautiful and timeless art. Capturing a story within one frame is just such a powerful thing to me. On the other hand, taking someone on a walk through my twisted imagination, making them feel something, or to provoke something within them is a special thing in itself.

     S: That is so well said.  I couldn't answer either way, I find both so intriguing.

\

     This looks like on helluva awesome film fest.  He as absolutely outdone himself.  This doesn't even say what films have been selected yet.  I must say George James Fraser has a loud voice to be heard in this genre.  Gots to love he does movies too, wow.  Can't wait to see what comes next from him.  All Beware, he is soon to be reckoned with.  I alone can't wait.  SUPPORT INDIE HORROR

     This interview is from a late bloomer, I would say.  But he definitely has the skills to get far quickly.  I am talking about Chad Armstrong and his company LC Films.  He has the skills to go far in a short amount of time.  And as far as his company goes, it is there to help all independent filmmakers, who want their visions seen.  But without further ado let's see what transpired between us, here is his 10 questions:

     S. 1.  Did you do have any college to prepare you for filmmaking?

     Chad Armstrong (CA):  1: I actually majored in Theater Arts, however I didn't take many filmmaking classes. I had the pleasure of meeting Robert Rodriguez when I was in my teens at a Fangoria Weekend Of Horrors convention in the late 1980's, his advice was to take the money I would spend on film classes and make films. I took that to heart and shot about 15 short films in the following ten years. Best advice I ever got.

     S:  I love Rodriguez work I wish I met him, that's awesome advice.

     S: 2.  Did you start making short films or jump head first into full length filmmaking?

     CA: 2. As per my last answer, I shot a ton of short films in my teens and throughout my twenties. It was back in the days when everything was shot on film, and editing was a bitch, by hand rolling the print through the monitor, splicing and gluing the film together. Much more tedious than making films today.

     S: That sounds awful, but we do a lot to see our films become reality, I did a short (award winning) with a friend and was willing to put a mouthful of maggots on me and my face but FX man stepped in to do it.

  S: 3.  With so little directing experience, what would you consider the best attribute you've learned?

             CA: 3. Well I would say I have little experience in directing feature films, but not directing in general. The best attribute I've learned is the new techniques available today. After my short films early on I took about 15 years off of making films, moved to Alabama. So when I got back into it, it was a whole new process, sure camera setups are the same, but lighting for digital, editing, and sound have a much more different process. I have learned a lot in the process of shooting my current film Deimosimine, I learn something new everyday and it's great to have technically knowledgeable people surrounding me to keep me grounded.

              S:  I really didn't know how many films you had done, my bad, but the process being so much easier is great for new filmmakers can get their visions to screen easier.

   S: 4.  What is your all-time favorite horror film?

              CA: 4. There are so many it's hard to really say. But Blood Beach and Scanners will always have a soft spot in my heart. Those were the first two horror films I saw when I was very young, for some reason my dad felt it would be a good idea to take my brother and I to a drive in double-feature of both. But the film that got me into makeup fx and horror movies in general was A Nightmare On Elm Street. I know it's cliche to say, because everyone does but I guess that just shows how amazing that film was, and that it spawned a whole army of aspiring little filmmaker's and horror addicts.

              S:  Nobody has said any of those three, so you have laid claim to it. lol. Couldn't agree more with Scanners or Nightmare never seen Blood Beach so I guess I need to check it out.

   S: 5.  You made the decision to start your own company, Legless Corpse Films, now LC Films, how or why did this come about?

              CA: 5. I actually made some of my early short films under the name LeglessCorpse Films (Leglesscorpse is from Return Of The Living Dead, the little zombie with no legs was credited in the in credits as LeglessCorpse and it stuck with me). So about three years ago I was diagnosed with Heart Failure and my heart was only pumping 15% of my blood and almost died. During that time I couldn't work for over a year so I started a horror news site so I wouldn't die of boredom. So that's really how LeglessCorpse was resurrected after all those years.

              

     S:  I'm glad you're okay, cause you've definitely got a voice in the horror genre that needs to be heard.

    S:  6.  Now you opened your own distribution company, as if your plate wasn't full enough, was this out of necessity or to help other indie filmmakers with deals to spread the horror?

              CA: 6. It was, I heard so many horror stories of filmmakers getting ripped off by distribution companies.  Companies that wouldn't take the chance of releasing indie horror films on BluRay and just on DVD, and that got me thinking to give it a try.  We are no where we want to be yet, but we are growing, it's a VERY tough business, and for a very small team with a lot it's even tougher. But we are doing our best to grow, keep fans happy and are always learning new things, new distribution outlets, which ones work, which ones don't for the indie guys.  So our business module changes as we continue to test the waters.

                S:  That should be awesome to hear to other indie filmmakers, that you're there if they can't find a good distribution deal.  I would give you mine, saying I finish a movie, trying very hard for camera to start something.


               S:  7.  What do most people not know about Chad?

     CA:  7.  Probably the heart failure thing. I try not to harp on it to much, but when you know you could at any time, drop dead , lol you tend to drive yourself harder and make sure you get as much accomplished as you possibly can. That was an inspiration to make our feature film Deimosimine, because it's something I've never done and said I always wanted to do, so I'm making sure I'm doing it. Funny thing is after Deimosimine wraps we are moving straight into Blood Dancers 2, which we acquired the rights to last year. So looks like I will be able to do at least two before the ride of life is over. Of course I'm hoping to do many more, but you just never know and can't take life for granted.

              S:  I must agree I have Nash's disease, and need a liver transplant, also very weak immune system another pancreatic attack could kill me.  I want to do a movie so bad, but have to save all vacation time from work for impending transplant, so I feel your pain.  Just glad to know dreams come true always gives me inspiration.

     S:  8.  Your newest film, Deimosimine, looks old school 80's horror, was that intentional?

                CA:  8. Of course, especially with the practical FX. There is a big boom right now for 80's style horror, with filtered film grain, picture noise, etc. We didn't want to go that route. I mean what's the point in shooting 4K if you are going to make it look like VHS? However, we are keeping the practical FX and creatures very 80's style, it will have it's campy moments but over-all it's a very dark film and my partner and writer Andrew Thompson did an amazing job on the script, so we don't want to make it into a camp-fest. That's what Blood Dancers 2 will be fore.

                 

       S:  That is a good point, I've seen a lot of 80's style coming out, but not with such a creature aspect to, which truly looks great in this film.

       S:  9.  Would you prefer CGI effects over practical FX if given the choice?

                 CA:  9. I'm not a huge fan of CGI. CGI has it's place when complimented with practical FX, which we have some shots like that in Deimosimine. But CGI blood, and 100% CGI monsters look fake. Now don't get me wrong, most practical FX creatures look fake too, however they are organic, physically there in front of you, to me that's more pleasing to see.

        S:  I couldn't agree more, some big name movies looks worse with CGI than if they would have went practical.  The perfect example to me would be when they added CGI to original Star Wars, looks made it very blatantly cheesy looking.  Total CGI on remakes is different but almost all the time, to me, originals are better.

        S:  10.  Do you believe that crowd-funding campaigns are an easier route to fund projects or do you need to find solid backers?

                  CA:  10. Crowd funding sucks, but unfortunately it's a necessity for indie filmmakers to get their movies made these days. The market is so saturated. It's not like it was back in the days when someone would invest 100K into a project because it was going to be one of 3 horror movies hitting the theatre's that year and they knew they would get their money back. Anyone can get their films onto Amazon Video these days, no matter how bad or good it is, so if you are a true indie filmmaker and want to make more films in the future, you have to think like a businessman and a PR person. You can't just release your film and let people try and discover it, you have to keep reminding people, keep pushing it, spend a little on a PR company and care about your film enough to do so. Keeping your return on investment in mind with every penny you spend. Sorry I derailed there. Short answer to the question is solid backers are much better, however you're more likely to raise funds from crowd funding than finding an investor that's going to fund your movie these days. 

                   S:  Great answer, seems that is the new trend, but I do understand people are tighter with their money nowadays.  Crowd funding gives true indie horror lovers a piece of the action never offered before also and we do get psyched about what little we can.  Most people don't, I think, understand how much extra work it puts on filmmakers and actors signing and buying trinkets that are given away for what little they pay.

That was another wonderfully fulfilling interview with  a great up and coming filmmaker, the sky is the limit for these new faces of horror.  Chad Armstrong may be a late bloomer but from the action and stills from Deimosimine looks awe inspiring.  I can't wait to get my hands on my copy, and also see what else is up his sleeve.  I appreciate all you do Chad and am so thankful from the bottom of my bleeding heart, thanks for the interview.  SUPPORT INDIE HORROR