Can you tell us about your latest film project and the process you went through in bringing it to life?

My latest film project is about the horrors of Christian Fundamentalist religious trauma and the struggle to break out of a cult-like mentality. Stranger Than Wiccan began when I realized I wanted to adopt a new perspective on life and release pain. I didn't wish to keep feeling consumed by the darkness, but I also understood the significance of not ignoring that. In addition, I love the idea of characters who embody shades of gray, not one hundred percent good or bad. I went through a spiritual process to bring the film to life. Akin to the lead character Lea (Falon Noel Scott), I learned to affirm myself, spend time in nature, connect with my inner child, and embrace my magic by letting go of what I can't control. I started writing the screenplay in July 2023, channeling my insights into the rich emotional world of the characters. The film is a metaphor for repressed identity and the dangers of your loved ones not seeing you as you are. Thus, like the shadows and light, I wanted to depict this balancing act -- and the potential to transform and regenerate despite all odds.

 

What inspired you to become a filmmaker and pursue a career in the film industry?

Ever since I was a youth, I considered myself a movie buff, especially in the horror genre. My favorite pastime entailed going to the theaters, discussing their meaning, reenacting lines with family and friends, and feeling inspired to create my own. I've thoroughly enjoyed delving into the characters' psychology to understand their motivations and advancement. I've written multiple screenplays, including Stranger Than Wiccan, and felt inspired to become a filmmaker and pursue a career in the film industry because of my passion for seeing my vision and bringing it to life. Interestingly enough, it's always been my dream to be a director.

 

What challenges did you encounter during the filmmaking process and how did you overcome them?

First, hiring crew and talent was one of the primary challenges. I overcame that by networking, interviewing potential candidates, asking film colleagues, setting up self-tapes, seeking feedback on the quality of auditions, trusting my instincts, and ultimately remaining persistent and open-minded. Then, it was a struggle to find a house that matched the vibe and look of the screenplay. Because of this, I researched houses on Airbnb and contacted the owners. I even met with one of them to communicate my needs and ensure a smoother flow once on set. Later, the electricity went out on the first day. I shot the scenes that did not require much lighting and informed the house's owners about the incident. He allowed us to borrow backup generators. Consequently, this allowed my Director of Photography (DP) to obtain more footage and shoot shots from different angles in relation to the subject and mise-en-scène. In other words, I handled challenges during the filmmaking process by troubleshooting, being responsive, and adapting to unprecedented changes.

 

What was the most memorable moment for you during the production of your film?

The most memorable moment during the film's production was the visceral impact of seeing one of my actors (Nathan Kirby) impersonate the character of James. He's a veteran actor, and when he shrieked at the protagonist, walloping the kitchen table, the whole crew laughed and jolted immediately. He was gleefully and utterly terrifying, and you could feel it in your bones, but that also established a fun, enjoyable, and memorable film experience.

 

Can you share any interesting anecdotes or behind-the-scenes stories from the making of your film?

Yes, the film was inspired by my childhood and the feeling of never being able to express myself fully. I resonate with the willpower of supernatural entities such as witches and ironically grew up hearing about how evil and demonic they were. Despite this, the film is a form of reclamation. Due to the lead character suffering mental breakdowns, Lumen de Lumine (or light of light) was an enlightening route to calm down and ground oneself. Moreover, I can relate to the challenges of having mental health issues: I have anxiety and depression. My desire to improve and be healthier influenced the making of Stranger Than Wiccan.

 

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

I approach storytelling in my films by reflecting on my experiences and their symbolism -- that can include my emotional reactions to life events and the thoughts they have provoked. Themes I intend to convey concern spiritual awakening, dark night of the soul, self-acceptance, love, familial rejection, queer or LGBT+ identity, sexuality, relationship challenges, loss, and transformation. The underlying message of my films is embracing individuality and finding oneself beneath societal expectations.

 

What is your preferred genre of filmmaking and why? Are there any specific directors or filmmakers who have influenced your work?

My preferred genre of filmmaking is horror because it helps the audience attune themselves to universal or archetypal fears. Furthermore, horror films are a chance to conquer our sleepless nights after the credits roll and survive our inner demons. That is one reason I feel motivated by directors like Jordan Peele, Wes Craven, and John Carpenter. Horror movies can also inspire us to connect with others and think deeper about the meaning of life, not to mention mortality and the bravery associated with it.

 

How do you select your cast and crew for your film projects? What qualities do you look for in collaborators?

I select my cast and crew for my film projects by identifying their availability and whether they have similar interests as mine. Another criterion for selecting cast and crew is evaluating their experience and skills. Then again, I look for collaborators who encourage me to see things differently and offer a unique perspective. I value openness, versatility, passion, and clear communication in collaborators.

 

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

I think that film festivals are incredibly important for independent filmmakers. They can help them to break out and find a larger audience. Essentially, film festivals allow independent filmmakers to network and grow their following. Each festival carries with it a different feel. Nonetheless, I enjoy film festivals. I've met plenty of friends, peers, and contacts. I am, however, still searching for film festivals that align with my films; it's an educational and inspiring experience. I enjoy watching movies from different filmmakers, including the ones I've helped with and supported. I'm learning and a work in progress.

 

Can you tell us about any awards or recognition your films have received and how they have impacted your career?

My films have often garnered a positive and enthusiastic response from audiences. I received multiple requests from social media followers to see my projects. Stranger Than Wiccan initially screened at the Film Production 2 screening in December 2023 at my college (University of Central Arkansas). Meanwhile, I submitted a pitch for another short film to Reel Queer earlier this month, and they selected me as Finalist. The recognition and awards have impacted my career tremendously. Hence, I want to continue to improve my filmmaking craft.

 

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

I handle feedback and criticism of my films by looking at constructive ways to become a better filmmaker. While negative feedback and criticism can hurt, they are also a source to produce higher quality work. Concerning how I use that to improve my craft, I review what I could've done better and implement it in my projects to the best of my ability.

 

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

I enjoy creative freedom the most during the process of filmmaking. I like having the liberty to express my characters and the story with resonance. However, it is equally challenging to deal with budgeting constraints. The lack of resources can make it more difficult to enjoy filmmaking, but it can make you more grateful for what you have.

 

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

I approach my films' distribution by using resources such as posting on social media and letting friends know about it. I aim to be concise and comprehensive with all the logistics, such as location, budget, and shooting dates. Strategies to reach a wider audience entail crowdfunding, networking, pitching at film festivals, and selling merchandise associated with the film. I like to describe genre, mood, colors, sound, and lighting. Subsequently, creating lookbooks is helpful to market to the correct audience and obtain a highly talented cast and crew. Further, I typically ask for feedback to clarify my target audience and expound upon that.

 

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

Yes, my advice for aspiring filmmakers is to develop and maintain self-belief, even if no one else will. Rejection is common and does not reflect their abilities or quality of work, at least not necessarily. Above all, mindset plays a substantial role in how well aspiring filmmakers succeed in their journey in the film industry. There is no one-shoe-size-fits-all solution, and everyone operates differently. Nonetheless, it does not hurt to attend workshops, contact friends in the industry, and put yourself out there. I think there's always room to grow and evolve.

 

Finally, can you share with us your future plans and upcoming projects as a filmmaker?

My future plans entail gaining more crew experience and understanding more about how to be a professional director, producer, and filmmaker. My goal is to become more well-rounded and skilled in my expertise. Upcoming projects include shorts and features (e.g., Sunflower). I plan to direct or produce a short film about fatalistic astrology, tarot, and mortality in the coming year; it is a comedic romance with existential horror between a cisgender male and transgender male. I'm in Film Production 3 in the coming days, a course where you raise funds to make a film in the Fall semester and direct and edit it in the second Spring semester. Genres for upcoming films: Horror, Mystery, Drama, LGBTQ/Coming-of-Age, Musical, and Rom-Com. I will work on projects of my own and others. More than anything, I plan to increase queer and POC cinematic representation and visibility for underrepresented voices in film.