How do you approach storytelling in your films? What themes or messages do you try to convey?

 What I tried with “Ad Absurdum” was to make an exploration of what I consider to be power, in addition to also studying the political class a bit. I was interested in making it a raw and absurd film, I wanted to show that which governs our world and which is also so stupid. I'm not interested in talking about hope in any of my works, I'm interested in exposing the problems that concern human nature and understanding them. Talking about the hope of things is very easy, confronting human misery is a real challenge. Of course, it all depends on the project, not everything is governed by a rule and I may at some point shoot a film where hope is the general idea of it. 

 

How important do you think film festivals are for independent filmmakers, and what has been your experience with film festivals so far?

I think they are essential. Making independent films is quite complex and you need all the support you can get so that films from all kinds of directors and subjects can be seen.

 

How do you handle feedback and criticism of your films? How do you use it to improve your craft?

I've never had a problem with accepting criticism of my work. It's part of the exercise of creation. However, as a director, I know when a critic doesn't criticize the work but cares about things beyond the work. That too must be accepted as long as everything is done with respect. If it is a criticism that I know adds to my work, I think about it and try to understand where I could be wrong or what I can improve. In the end, if someone had the time to see your work, you should also have the time to value their words.

 

What do you enjoy most about the process of filmmaking? Is there anything you find particularly challenging?

Every single process of filming is intimate and challenging. However, when you have a good team everything flows as it should. Maybe the only difficult thing was the short time I had to shoot, that was a challenge. However, due to the independent nature of the project it couldn't be otherwise.

 

How do you approach the distribution of your films? What strategies do you employ to reach a wider audience?

As this is our first film, we are in a learning stage. We are following the route of festivals that best suit the project to be seen as much as possible.

 

What advice do you have for aspiring filmmakers who are just starting their journey in the film industry?

We are currently in the development stage of two more projects. I am talking with Daniel Giménez Cacho about the possibility of him joining one of them. I think everything will move forward positively for the time being.

 

How long have you been doing movies? How did you decide to start making movies?

For the past 30 years, writing and directing plays have been my passion, earning me wide recognition in Mexico and beyond as a multi-awarded playwright. However, filmmaking has always been my true calling. Due to personal circumstances, I haven't been able to pursue this dream until now. Finally, I'm thrilled to embark on my first independent film project!

Two things fueled my decision to make the film finally. First, it's been a lifelong ambition. Second, advancements in technology have made filmmaking more accessible than ever. Today, creating a film doesn't require a massive budget, opening doors for more creative voices like mine to explore the beauty of cinematic language.

 

Why did you do this project?

“Ad Absurdum” is the film adaptation of my play, “Deshonra.” The play resonated with audiences for its exploration of human passion and bold political commentary. Recognizing its strong cinematic potential, I decided to bring it to the big screen with the invaluable support of my producers, Graciela Cázares and Denis Elizalde. The talented cast, featuring Jorge Luis Moreno, Humberto Solórzano, and Fernando Banda, also played a crucial role in the film's production.

 

How much budget did you have to do this project?

We accomplished the entire production and post-production with a budget of US $10,000. Initially, I aimed to assemble a team of individuals who were willing to take risks and push boundaries. I had learned to make theater in the desert sand of Baja California, working outdoors with no budget, so I believed we could make a film with the same constraints. Robert Rodriguez had successfully done it in the '90s, and I thought we could do it ourselves. Technology was undoubtedly our ally and the scenic route we had available eliminated many obstacles for us.

 

Was it self-funded or did you get budget/producers/investors?

"Ad Absurdum" is a self-financed film, a testament to the belief that big budgets aren't everything. A few years back, my producer Graciela Cázares and I [together founded Calypso Productions] approached our dear friend, Denis Elizalde, and we asked him for the budget. We knew it wouldn't be easy: the project required significant investment with uncertain returns. But Denis, true to his adventurous spirit, became our accomplice. He contributed a substantial portion of the funding, with Graciela and I covering the rest. The cast and crew generously worked for minimal compensation. Denis even lent us a camera, and we utilized two Canon 5D Mark IIIs. Resourcefulness was key, and it paid off.

 

How long did it take from the initial idea to being able to release?

About three years, due to the lack of money, it was a long process.

 

Are you happy with the result?

Making “Ad Absurdum” truly pushed my boundaries. I wore many hats – writer, director, cinematographer, and editor. It wouldn't have been possible without the dedication of our incredible team. I thank Graciela Cázares, Denis Elizalde, the cast, and the crew for their unwavering support on this self-financed project. Bringing José Luis Salazar on board as post-producer was a game-changer. His expertise elevated the film to a whole new level.

 

What phase is this project in right now? Are you in the initial phase of sending it to festivals, middle phase or finishing the circuit?

“Ad Absurdum's” journey has just begun! While it wasn't officially competing, the film was recently screened at Mix Filmfest Mexico and received a remarkably positive reception. This enthusiastic response from the audience is a great motivator as we continue submitting the film to other festivals.

 

How has your experience been with the festivals so far? Where do you think they should improve?

Excellent, I'm glad the technical aspects were not a major concern. The limitations we faced were primarily logistical, but our team's resourcefulness and commitment overcame those challenges. The fact that we all rallied together to support the production at every turn speaks about the passion and determination of your team.

 

Normally, filmmakers use many references, favorite directors, favorite movies, etc. Were you inspired by any director or film? If so, tell us your references.

The work of visionary filmmakers like Lars von Trier, David Mamet, Alfred Hitchcock, and John Cassavetes was a major inspiration for this project. The blend of theatricality and cinematic language that these directors pioneered helped me understand the artistic approach I wanted to take. Their unwavering creative independence and genius were driving forces. I also closely studied the early films of Stanley Kubrick, admiring the bold, unapologetic nature of his work. What unites these filmmakers is a refusal to compromise their artistic vision, even in the face of societal pressures or ideological constraints.