Tag: Cinema

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Interview

A Conversation with Birdeater directors’ Jack Clark and Jim Weir.

Jack Clark and Jim Weir are Australian filmmakers who recently created their debut feature film – Birdeater. The film has won awards at festivals around Australia and is now going international. After months waiting to see it, I was finally able to watch it at the Brisbane International Film Festival. Birdeater was one of my most anticipated movies of the year and it did not disappoint. It was a harrowing and hilarious experience that perfectly encapsulated young Australians. Read on for my conversation with Jack Clark and Jim Weir.

FRAZIER: “I have read about how challenging the shooting was with weather, actors changing and funds running out so I wanted to ask how you maintain motivation when all things feel hopeless and over in production?”

JACK: “You really must rely on each other. We had our worst moments when we were in ourselves and not communicating. To establish the tone of a set is such a big part of being a director that is often overlooked.  We realised that if we established the tone on set it would spread across everyone. Ultimately, the crew and cast were the biggest support for us. Especially people like Roger Stonehouse (Director of Photography) who were shooting every single day.”

JIM: “For upcoming filmmakers, follow through is important. Doing the entire life cycle of a project is where you really learn. It’s a common trap we saw at film school where when you start a project and it gets tough, they would throw in the towel. Another one is when you have a project that might get made, people will just start thinking of the next thing. Just having the discipline to ride the life cycle of a film.”

FRAZIER: The paranoia game, these men always wearing masks in front of their partners, it all felt like I was watching people I knew. Can you talk about creating these very specific but relatable moments and characters for an Australian audience?

Jack Bannister as Charlie, Mackenzie Fearnley as Louie, Clementine Anderson as Grace, Ben Hunter as Dylan, Shabana Azeez as Irene, Alfie Gledhill as Murph, Harley Wilson as Sam.

JACK: “It was all about bringing an audience to the bucks night. Irene and Grace come to the party which is something that girls aren’t usually present for. We felt like that was enough for the characters to panic and reveal their paranoias and insecurities. The paranoia game just plays into all this.”

JIM: “Something we used as a rule of thumb is start with an archetype where the audience will instantly form an opinion of them. Then, add dramatic contradiction that opens them up to being more interesting. Like Dylan, he is this party animal and antagonist that is desperate to have a good time but also is deeply lonely and sad.”

FRAZIER: What did the writing process look like for both of you?

Clayton D Moss and Jim Weir

JACK: “We are both writers since film school. It has taken a while to build up a regularity with writing. They always said it at film school that you need to write everyday, and it felt very daunting but slowly it did become a regularity. It is a lot of shit ideas I feed Jim that sometimes work and are exciting. We were always writing. We were writing on the day; we were writing narration on the last day in case we needed it. It is just a constant thing. Then you get the actors on board and if they are good, they will have their own opinions.”

JIM: “Actors will see something in their character that is there but is usually a small part of the character that they latch onto. Most of my day-to-day job is being available for conversation and being able to talk through ideas and try to work out what we are trying to say. I will just sift through 1000 ideas Jack throws at me and I will just say what is good”.

FRAZIER: So the core focus is just on chipping away everyday together at it?

JACK: “It is definitely hard. I remember I used to get nice notebooks. A big change for me was getting really shit notebooks because then they aren’t precious about what is on the page. I also like the process of writing it because you are already editing it from physical to digital.”

FRAZIER: “So you don’t do the first draft by hand? It is just writing all your ideas down first and then bringing it onto the electronic document.”

JACK: “If my writing was more legible, I would trust myself. But honestly I would just focus on not being too precious.”

FRAZIER: “I won’t ask you again about Wake in Fright but I did hear you both talk about the Celebration, Nashville and Mishima, but more specifically this period of watching just the weirdest films you could in AFTRS. How important do you think this period was and its effect on you as filmmakers?”

Clementine Anderson and Jack Bannister

JACK: “A lot of the movies we watched in film school were probably above my paygrade. I probably latched onto a cool dolly. It’s more the process of realising how many different and unique perspectives are out there. It is realising that if you want to make something that is cutting you have to overwhelm yourself with content. There are still so many areas I haven’t even scratched yet.”

JIM: “It is crucial. Slowly building up that film literacy is important because when you are stuck you will have a catalogue of great movies in your brain. An example would be we have seen so many movies with a character having a quiet moment reflecting in a bathroom mirror. We had the idea that in this bathroom there is no mirror because it denies the girls a moment of reflection.”

JACK: “You will come to a scene and shooting its coverage and straight away you will think “I know how to shoot this scene.” You have to forcibly stop yourself and realise you have taken that movement or shot from something else. You just have to be aware that you have taken it from something else.”

JIM: “Something we are quite conscious of is having as many references as we can outside of the genre and especially not taking references from recent films that are doing the same thing. That is when you have work that feels derivative. You have to go further back. People say Birdeater feels original but that is because so much of it is stolen from films people haven’t seen.”

FRAZIER: “Yeah I remember you saying Jim that if you just watch enough films you will shoot in the way you watch.”

JACK: “It is tough as well and a question people in film school need to ask themselves. If you want to make narrative content, do you like movies and do you watch them.”

FRAZIER: “I know Jim you have said that the best advice is to just keep making shorts and eventually they will look like what you watch, but I was wondering if you both had any specific advice on the ability to keep the film dream alive when it doesn’t feel like anyone cares and what your making isn’t receiving attention?”

Shabana Azeez and Mackenzie Fearnley

JACK: “It comes down to a method thing. There will be a day when it looks like what you want to make or maybe even better. But then another questions arises which is do I really care about this? Now that you can do it is it something you truly want to say. When you are young you can focus on learning how to make films but then be aware that the harder challenge is what to do with that.”

JIM: “From a more practical perspective it is easy to get caught up in the trap of the filmmaking success being where you get your joy in life. I think the challenge is what can I do to be happy in my life as a struggling filmmaker. If you aren’t happy struggling, you won’t be happy successful. Getting good reception to a movie, everyone is surprised by how little that does for you on self-perception and how happy you are in life.”

JACK: “There was a big trap in film school where people thought their third-year film was going to be “it” and the best thing they have made. But it should just be a process where you are looking ahead.”

FRAZIER: “There has been this recent shift in the last 5 years with Australian films and the direction they are moving. I was just wondering your perspective on where it’s going and where you want the film scene to move and explore?”

JIM: “I am feeling very optimistic. I have met a lot of aspiring filmmakers and directors who have such interesting things to say. There is a trend of filmmakers playing with different genres which is something I definitely want to see continue.”

JACK: “I want to see something we didn’t do and that is more stuff in cities. Maybe it is a self-defence thing, but we push our movies away where there is nobody else. I saw films shot in Sydney and I was so excited to see films shot here. A good Sydney drama would be nice and I will be happy. But I am very excited because there are so many young filmmakers coming up.

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Film Reviews

Beau is Afraid (Non Spoiler Review)

Ari Aster has certified himself as one of the best directors working right now. With only two films under his belt, there is nothing he makes I wouldn’t see. Thereby, Beau is Afraid was one of my most anticipated movies of 2023. Like everyone else, I had absolutely no clue what it was about, but I trusted Ari. So, on a Sunday night I went to the cinema to see an 8:30 screening of this film. I had heard some things about Beau is Afraid but nothing could prepare me for those next three hours.

I will be honest. I don’t even know where to start with this film. There are so many different layers of themes, subtext and motifs that writing this review scared me. So, let’s start with the basics…

Beau is Afraid is a very entertaining and gripping movie. As soon as the lights went dark, I was invested in this world and character. Despite having absolutely no clue what was happening for 80% of it, I was intrigued by this adventure. But there is a core problem with the movie that is being brought up a lot – the run time. You truly feel the weight of those three hours. It has scenes that stretch on for too long and a lot of that fat needs to be trimmed. I understand Ari Aster wants to put you in the protagonist’s shoes but for a lot of this movie I simply wanted it to move on.

Ari Aster introduces a completely new type of horror. Beau is Afraid is about feeling what our protagonist feels. Ari wants the audience to feel as trapped, afraid and confused of the world as Beau does. He accomplishes this expertly through horrific imagery, a chaotic plot and evil characters. Even sequences that seem normal have this uncanny and upsetting vibe to them – a perfect representation of Beau’s anxiety.

Something that isn’t being talked about with this film is how funny it is. Throughout Beau is Afraid, there are these simple lines or props that instantly made my audience laugh out loud. In moments of high tension, it was an excellent break that made the 3-hour run time feel slightly shorter.

The performances in Beau is Afraid are incredible. Joaquin Phoenix can paint 15 different versions of fear and anxiety across his face in a way I have never seen done before. Even when Beau seems at peace there is this subtle neurotic nature that is bubbling below the surface. Joaquin just makes this very heightened and exaggerated world feel real through an earnest and sincere performance. On the other hand, I love how the other actors felt so over the top and exaggerated. In particular, Patti Lupone, Nathan Lane and Kylie Rogers all bring something new to these insane characters. As a result, it once again makes us feel Beau’s anxiety towards the people around him.

In a conversation between Martin Scorsese and Ari, Martin kept mentioning the technical skill of Ari Aster in Hereditary and Midsommar. In Beau is Afraid, it is at an all-time high. The angles, slight pans, blocking, production design, editing and lighting are truly ahead of their time. Every single detail of this film amplifies that anxious and muddled vibe. It is so effective in making the audience feel on edge that I drove home feeling uneasy. Every crew member of Beau is Afraid has added to building a world not to dissimilar from the Shining.  

Ultimately, Beau is Afraid is about evoking a feeling in the audience. I think a lot of viewers will get too wrapped up in an explanation or a deeper meaning. However, I think Aster wants one simple thing with this film – to impart his own anxieties and therapy sessions onto them. It is about understanding the psyche of Beau and so many other people struggling with serious mental health issues. To me, Aster has one goal with this film and accomplishes it perfectly.

Should you watch Beau is Afraid?

Beau is Afraid will be the most divisive film of 2023. If you don’t know how crazy this film is going in, I don’t think you will enjoy it. But if you go in embracing the strange elements and long run time you will love it like I did.

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Film Reviews

Dungeons and Dragons: Honour Among Thieves Review

When I saw the trailer for the new Dungeons and Dragons film I completely dismissed it. It looked like a standard Hollywood cash grab with no passion or love behind it. But then I started hearing more about this film. In particular, the fact that John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein were behind it. These two had huge roles in Game Night, Spiderman Homecoming, Horrible Bosses and Vacation – movies that are genuinely funny and extremely rewatchable. And then, the reviews came out. Dungeons and Dragons was doing well both critically and commercially and I instantly knew I had to see it.

Dungeons and Dragons Honour Among Thieves is about a thief and a band of unlikely adventurers embarking on a quest to retrieve a lost relic. The adventure goes awry when they run into the wrong people. The film stars Chris Pine, Hugh Grant, Michelle Rodriguez and is written and directed by John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein.

The two Johns have spoken a lot about how they knew the script needed to be incredible for this film to work. They spent years reworking it to make sure it appealed to the fans and captured that sense of friendship that is pivotal to the game. It completely paid off because it is a brilliant script. The movie balances 5 characters that each seem to get a real and honest development over a standard runtime.  Everyone in the group has their own voice that makes them that much more hilarious on screen. On top of this, the plot is refreshing and doesn’t follow the same beats as a standard fantasy film. It even maintains an excellent pace that never feels dragged out.

What really surprised me about Dungeons and Dragons was the emotional beats. I did not expect this film to include such well written and performed scenes that were genuinely heartfelt.  Each member of the band has a moment that has some serious dramatic weight and adds more depth and layers to these characters. Without these beats, this film would simply be a solid action comedy.

The casting for this film was truly perfect. Victoria Thomas has chosen each actor perfectly to play these unique characters. Chris Pine is doing what he does best – being extremely charismatic and entertaining on screen. I love that Michelle Rodriguez is doing something new and leaning into a comedic tone. Justice Smith has mastered that awkward comedy and Sophia Lillis has this intensity that makes me want to see her in more films. Finally, Rege Jean Page and Hugh Grant really stole the show for me. They were so incredible in their roles that every time they were on screen it felt like their movie.

A lot of action in Hollywood blockbusters can feel very repetitive. You have occasional films like Everything Everywhere All at Once and John Wick 4 reinventing this, but most action movies are just two people shooting lasers at each other. The two Johns clearly understand this. Each action sequence introduces new elements and devices that feel refreshing. Every character uses their skillsets in engaging ways that isn’t just some karate and punching (cough MCU cough). I just love how different each action set piece feels in this film and to other movies being made.

Should you see Dungeons and Dragons Honour Among Thieves?

I honestly believe that this film may be one of the best blockbusters of the year. It is so entertaining and fun from start to finish. As soon as I finished it, I wanted to go and see it again which is exactly what you want from an action comedy. Definitely go see this film because it’s well worth your time.

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Interview

Writer / Director Felix Lovell on his upcoming short film

Felix Lovell on set

When I started interviewing people, I had the singular goal of finding filmmakers who are out there making short films no matter what. Whether it’s shot with their friends or with no budget, I wanted to focus on artists who are extremely passionate about their craft. Felix Lovell embodies this. He has been making quality short films for years, is a very talented photographer and is constantly working on other peoples projects. Now, he is focusing his efforts on a short surreal drama called The Scatterer.

Talking his Upcoming Short Film

What is The Scatterer about?

“The Scatterer follows a professional ash scatterer named Arthur who encounters a mysterious figure in the outback and is tasked with scattering their ashes. Memories start blurring with the present as he seeks answers for unanswerable questions.”

How long has this idea been stuck in your head for?

“I would say September/ August 2022. Looking back on it, I could see a lot of things in my life influencing what I wrote. I wrote it around when my grandpa was dying and also, I wrote the first draft while in hospital with appendicitis. Subconsciously, all these feelings were being put into the script.”

Felix on the set of Kudzu (2022) with

Your process day in and day out writing?

“I have a massive list in my notes app on my phone. Any inspiration, things I have heard people say or things I have seen go into it. My ideas come from looking at that list, finding common themes and collating them into a story.”

“For the writing, I map out a story arc before I start writing on the script. I only write when I am actually feeling inspired since it is a passion project. When I write I also like to act out what I am writing. Whether it be blocking it or talking to myself, it helps me visualise the story a lot more.”

Before shooting starts, what is your biggest concern?

Kudzu (2022)

“The first concern was location because it was far away and set in the desert. It’s almost been solved by a lot of research and a cinematographer (Elliot Deem) who suggested Lightning Ridge. Another thing we are struggling with now is casting. We are casting two demographics I am not super connected with but luckily our casting director (Shanay Warren) is helping a lot. It’s also just a blessing to have Eleanor Somerville as the producer because she just has this ability to get things moving.”

Kudzu, Somnium, Malingee have such a specific style and tone, is there a filmmaker you are inspired by?

“David Lynch is my number one. Also, Yorgos Lanthimos even though my films don’t reflect the tone of his. I love any filmmaker who is bold enough to do something that might not make any sense immediately but it sticks with you. I also love Robert Eggers, Ingmar Bergman and Andrei Tarkovsky.”

Talking movies

4 of your favourite films?

“Eraserhead is my number one all-time favourite film. You love it or you hate it. Also, Stalker, the Lighthouse, and the Killing of a Sacred Deer.” 

Talking the Future

Where do you want the Australian film scene to move?

“It’s great having these classic Australian stories like The Dressmaker but having films that are willing to experiment and do something different is important. I was lucky enough to work on Angus Kirby’s new film. He isn’t afraid to do something that doesn’t fit the standard Australian drama structure. Good examples of this are Nitram and Babyteeth.”

What is your one film wish?

“I want Lynch to release one more film. I think he has one more project in him. I really hope he doesn’t die. Actually, maybe that’s my wish, to keep David Lynch alive.”

What film are you most looking forward to in 2023?

“Beau is Afraid I am very excited for. In terms of someone pushing boundaries, Ari Aster is constantly doing just that. It just looks crazy and I’m here for it.”

Make sure to go and watch Felix’s short films on his Youtube Channel and follow The Scatterer on Instagram. If you believe in this project as much as I do make sure to donate to their Go Fund me here

https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-scatterer-2024-short-film?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet

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Interview

Interview with Writer / Director Josh Allan

Josh Allan is a Brisbane based writer and director. Recently, he released a short film called 2:32AM which has won multiple awards and screened at countless festivals. It is truly an incredible short-film about human connection and finding your place in the world. As soon as I saw it, I knew I had to grab an interview with Josh. Read on for our conversation about his short film, movies and his future.

On 2:32Am

What is 2:32Am about?

“It’s a short film about two lonely strangers learning to find that deeper connection that they’re both missing. Titus is this sort of rough around the edges, charismatic character that has an internal conflict he needs to address. Whereas Caleb is more of that reclusive Uni student who hasn’t made close friends.”

What was your process writing this short film?

Josh Allan on set of 2:32Am

“I find writing challenging. My process is kind of all over the place. It starts with messy feelings or ideas that I will start to write into a script. I have also learnt to integrate feedback a lot. My main process is trusting my intuition while also reaching out for help.”

What were the biggest challenges of creating an indie film and how you overcame them?

 “I found that on set we had a limited time to shoot. It was difficult trying to work to a schedule while trying to preserve the quality. What I am always learning is to trust yourself, the material and the people around you. Trust amid the stress is key.”

How do you run your set?

“To me a lot of problems that you need to solve during production start in pre-production. I like to have in depth discussions before I get on set. Most of the tension on set comes from a lack of creative alignment. If someone is stressed or angry I just try and see it from their perspective.”

How you battle lack of motivation?

“The thing that helps me is if I am stuck on one project, I jump onto another temporarily. I am a filmmaker and I also do music, so I swap between them.”

Cast and Crew of 2:32AM

Talking Film

What filmmakers inspire you

“Richard Linklater. I find the way he wrote stuff – from a very personal / semi-autobiographical place – very interesting. Rather than having an overt plot, conversation becomes the plot. In interviews for the Before Trilogy, he was saying the connection is cinematic enough.”

“Steven Spielberg and George Lucas. While they don’t influence my style, they inspired me to make films.”

Can you list four of your favourite movies?

Josh on set

“Manchester by the Sea I really like because my Dad and I connect through it. Short Term 12 I could watch that movie forever. One that has stuck with me and ignited something within was Whiplash. It showed me that a story based in the real world can be more anxiety inducing than a horror. Also, Kramer vs Kramer I clicked with it because my parents got divorced when I was that age.”

The Future

What’s next for you?

“I am one of the producers of an up-and-coming indie film studio. We have been making some micro short films and we have a drama/ thrill coming out called Sparring. It’s like a Whiplash style psychological thriller about a military guy being interrogated by a dictatorial figure.”

2:32AM

Where do you want Australian movies to move?

“Truthfully, I am not that wired into the Australian film industry and the trends. For me, I don’t feel much pressure to try and represent the whole country. It’s fine for filmmakers to make something that doesn’t have to be distinctively Australian. Also, I think filmmakers worry too much about what the market wants and appealing to a demographic.”

All photos by Millie Lawyer

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Interview

The Best Christmas Short Ever – Interview with Writer Tyson Yates

About 4 years ago, I went to the Brisbane Backyard Film Festival. Two films from that night stuck with me that I truly loved and have never stopped talking about. One is Follow that Taxi (I did an interview with Sam Monaghan this year) and the other is It’s Christmas. It is one of the funniest and most original short films I have ever seen and my favourite Christmas short ever. On top of this, it won the audience award at the Brisbane Backyard Film Festival. Before you read this interview, go and watch this film below, it is well worth your time.

Recently, I did an interview with the writer of It’s Christmas – Tyson Yates. Tyson is a Brisbane based writer and director. On top of this project, he has written Lemonade – a comedy web series – and wrote and directed Smashed – a comedy short which won Audience Choice at West End Film Festival. Read on for more.

DP David Aponas and Tyson behind the camera

What inspired the story of It’s Christmas?

“I used to work in journalism, but my number one thing was writing for film. One year I upped and left and do a year of film school. I plopped myself down in Brisbane and did a year at university.”

“The whole idea is just kind of a typical Christmas for me, I am from a small country town in Northern NSW. It was hot, sweaty, there was drama over the prawns. This one was just one of the first scripts that just flowed out of me. I don’t think I struggled to write that one at all. It was just taking tid bits from my family and inserting into the script. And also just who doesn’t love writing genre.”

What was your process writing for this and writing in general?

Kristie and Tyson Yates

“When you are writing you put a lot of pressure on yourself. I think the unspoken thing though is that no one has it right – even some established filmmakers and writers. There has never been this smooth process in writing. But I think the background in media and written journalism really helped the discipline of it. When someone is paying you to write a story you don’t have an option of not feeling it or having mental block – the deadline is 5.”

As someone who writes and directs did you find it hard handing over the It’s Christmas Script?

“I have directed the last couple of things I have done. I released smashed a couple of years ago and that was the first major thing I directed. I just decided to Direct to get it done in the exact way it’s in my head. With It’s Christmas, I must have been a terrible person to have on set because I was following the director around and buzzing around like a fly. I think in the future I will focus less on directing and more on script writing because it’s just a huge commitment.”

Tyson directing actors – Winnie Mzember (middle) and Kyle MacCallion

Are there any specific Christmas movies you love or are inspired by?

“I really love the tone of A Moody Christmas. It spoke so much to me and I think they were aiming for the same thing because it feels like a person experience of an Aussie family. I have had a couple Christmas’s in the cold, and you miss it when you’re not here. I also love genre Christmas movies like Krumpus.”

Were there any general movies that inspired it as well?

“Absolutely Sean of the Dead. Edgar Wright is a perfect example of a filmmaker who can take ridiculous concepts and squeeze sentiment into it.”

Tyson on sound with Nicholas Rowan (sound) and Mellisa Johnson (makeup)

Other Projects

Creating both Smashed and Lemonade, what have you learnt from both projects and would advise filmmakers about starting a web series?

“I am from the school of keep it simple. Everyone does their share house comedy, it’s low stakes. You watch some amazing comedies like Arrested Development and Scrubs, the comedy just comes from the simplicity and characters – something I am still learning. Don’t be discouraged by not nailing something. It was interesting at film school how many people wanted to be at the finish line already. I have resigned myself to the fact that it’s going to take a long time to learn but the best way to do that is to keep it simple.”

As someone who also did one year of film school, I was wondering your opinion on it and if think it’s worthwhile?

On the set of Smashed

“There are two different camps, I guess. I learnt a lot from film school and especially what not to do in a safe situation. You are at the mercy of whoever else happens to be in your cohort. It can be a bit of a scramble to get on top. I didn’t have that problem to much as I had some pretty set goals. There was also good teachers I learnt a lot from. But the reason I left was because the classes and lessons were starting to repeat themselves.”

What is next for you?

“I recently got a job in a production company so any of my film projects just stopped at that point. I had a hiatus for a few years and then recently we jumped back on board with the short stack guys and shot a short film in August. It’s very similar to smashed in that it’s a couple of locations and housemates together. We are just doing the assembly edit now so it’s looking good.”

If someone came to you with one film wish, what would it be?

On the set of It’s Christmas

“I don’t know if I would want to wish my way to the finish line. But me right now I feel I am still finding my way through writing and directing. I would be absolutely horrified to have a world class actor standing in front of me asking what do to. It would be something small like making an indie feature that is well within my means. I would love to have this indie gem of a film that is well regarded. And then I am happy to be sky rocketed into making a Marvel film, substance abuse, not seeing my family – you know, the Hollywood dream.”

Where do you want to see the Australian film scene in 5-10 years?

“I think I have never really put much thought into getting funding. “I guess i believe that a good script will have it’s time and eventually get made. I know people bang on about funding being political, but those people usually have a shit script. I like to believe that a good idea, a good script, will get picked.”

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Film Reviews

Black Panther Wakanda Forever (Non-Spoiler Review)

I think I must be one of the few people in the world who didn’t love the first Black Panther. While the first two thirds were great, that last act was so terrible that I cannot rate the movie highly. But after seeing the trailer for Black Panther Wakanda Forever, I was excited for the sequel. It looked like a completely new direction for this series and the MCU entirely. But does it live up to the hype of the first movie? Read on for more.

Black Panther 2 is unlike any other Marvel film (the closest one I would compare it to is Winter Soldier simply for the pacing). It is a carefully crafted movie that takes it’s time with each character. While it does have some moments where it drags, the story doesn’t feel like we are trying to get from Point A to Point B but instead delves into some heavy concepts. In particular, the exploration of grief and vengeance creates one of the most emotionally layered and complex Marvel Movies. It effectively feels like such a breath of fresh air in the recent slate of formulaic films.

What adds to this excellent writing is a beautiful looking film. Each shot is vibrant and bursting with colours. The costumes, lighting and set design keep your eyes glued to the screen and add a depth to these incredible worlds. On top of this, the VFX look realistic. With the recent Marvel films looking like garbage, Black Panther 2 once again stands out. Only 2 shots in this movie look a little rough and that is completely respectable considering the scale of these set pieces.

The action in Black Panther Wakanda Forever never feels like the focus of the film. It is simply a backdrop for the story. Nevertheless, the few actions set pieces in this movie are very entertaining. Ryan Coogler weaves in his signature style to create fast paced and high stakes fight scenes. Each punch feels like it hurts and for once we see some people get stabbed.

What I loved most about this movie was the performances. Maybe it is because they are drawing from Chadwick Boseman’s passing but every actor is bringing 120%. In particular, Letitia Wright and Angela Bassett. How they portray their grief for T’CHalla’s death is some of the most outright heartbreaking acting the MCU has ever seen. I also loved the introduction of Tenoch Huerta as Naymour and Dominique Thorne as Ironheart. As usual, they have cast actors who are perfect for these roles, and you instantly want to see more of.

The final act of this movie had me on the edge of my seat. Not because of the suspense or stakes but simply because I thought they would botch the ending like every other Marvel film. But honestly, they didn’t. Ryan Coogler wraps up this spectacular film with an amazing action set piece and a touching conclusion for Chadwick Boseman.  

Should you see Black Panther Wakanda Forever?

Definitely go see this in cinemas. It is an epic story that deserves to be seen on a big screen. And if you loved the first film, this one is even better.

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Interview

Polyamorous – An Interview with showrunner Archie Waterson

At the beginning of this year, I interviewed Archie Waterson on a documentary he produced – The Diamond from Sierra Leone. Recently, the short doco was selected into the Heart of Gold Film Festival (a pretty big deal for a filmmaker so young). Once again, Archie is back with a brand new project he has been working tirelessly on. Polyamorous is a mockumentary web-series made in 8 weeks. After watching it once, I instantly went back and watched it again because I was amazed how much him and his team pulled off in such a short amount of time. It is funny, clever and most importantly, original. Read on for more.

Archie Waterson (right) on set with Hunter Smith

What is Polyamorous?

“It is a mockumentary story about 6 people in a polyamorous relationship and the highs and lows they go through trying to be free spirited. It follows the perspective of Mackenzie who is monogamous and is in denial who is following her partner who wants to join a polyamorous relationship to leave her.”

What inspired this story?

Tai Scott, Janice Devarakonda and Matthew Cieslar on set

“I was having a beer with my friend, and he told me he was in the dating game. He went on a tinder date and this girl who he got along well with and she said I’m in a polyamorous relationship. I didn’t know what this was and I kind of got obsessed with it and started watching a ton of documentaries. Through all these shows, I kind of discovered 6 architypes through it.”

What was the writing process and how did you go about it leading a writers’ room?

“The process came from fleshing out the story first. I wrote the character breakdowns, the log line, the pitch and all these characters so I knew who they were and what they would be like in this relationship. I wrote the pilot then I got all my writers and from there, each writer was linked to an episode, and we built this arch for Mackenzie, Jake and Tash and the rest of the relationship.”

How do you the test out the joke /comedy?

Lachlan Wormwell and Archie Waterson on set

“For me, it was weird because I never really wrote for the screen, comedy wise. I feel like if I’m in a social setting I am kind of funny and I make people laugh. I have always wanted to do comedy. What I found is that I try and give to people who I find funny and if they like it, I know I’m onto something.”

What has been the most challenging part of making a web series?

“Overall, it was an intense process we did in 8 weeks. The hardest part for me was finding confidence in myself at the start when I’m pitching it. The stress and anxiety of trying to appease 50 people was challenging. But other than that, it was a very smooth process and I didn’t find too many challenges.”

Are there any other plans to release it other than the festival run?

“Once this all ends, it will be released onto YouTube and Vimeo. I also want to take it to the ABC as a proof of concept to show them.

Do you ever have periods of self and lack of motivation and how do you combat that?

The crew of Polyamorous

“I have in my life. At this point, I feel weirdly motivated and confident which helped in the process. The pressure allowed me to always remain motivated. I feel like the way to get out of these slumps is to reassess why you do it and that creating is a blessing.”

Talking Movies

What movies and shows inspired Polyamorous?

“In terms of style, ‘’What We Do in the Shadows” and “The Office” were two big style guides. “Shameless (US)” for the dynamics between the characters and their chaos.”

What filmmakers do you look up to?

“I love Larry David. I just want to be one of those guys who seems effortless but really cares for the craft. I love Taika Waititi who is this creative inspiration, making stuff from a place similar to where we come from.”

What is the worst thing people do in the cinema?

“People chewing popcorn loudly. Some people are just loud chewers and it’s fucked.”

Tai Scott, Rowan Williams, Archie Waterson and Adelaide Lapere on set

The Future

Where do you want the Australian film scene to move?

“I want comedy to not be Australian cliches. I think people living in urban parts should have a voice because they are just as interesting as people in London and New York. I want there to be a blend where it’s not just tourism but beautiful Australian stories.”

Matthew Cieslar, Bianca Rapp, Janice Devarakonda, Abigal Waugh, Hunter Smith, Chris Nguyen and Archie

What is your one film wish?

“I would love to get coffee with Larry David. I would love to have a job comedy writing for a TV series.”

What is next for you?

“Probably the grad slate next year. Just writing again and getting back into the development phase again.

Anyone you want to shoutout?

“I want to shoutout Amy Lightbody, my producer on the show. She put in so much work and she just made the process super smooth for me.”

All photos taken by Sam Goldsmith and Felix Lovell.

Categories
Interview

The Pallidura – Australia’s next best horror web series

Nathan Simmons is a Brisbane based filmmaker. He is currently in his second year at University and runs a production company known as Salty Dog Media. Recently, he was the show runner for the horror web series The Pallidura. After watching Episode 4, I was amazed at how well crafted and scary this series is. It will definitely be an amazing horror web series that I am very excited for. Read on for more.

What is the Pallidura?

Nathan on set

“It is a story about a couple – Curtis and Jessica – who are celebrating a birthday. An old friend comes to the party with a mysterious painting and once he enters the party Curtis’s life is never the same.”

What was your big inspirations for this project?

“The idea came in a writing workshop we had. The educator said, think of an object in your home and how it can attract a character. I thought about how some people can have a fascination for a painting and some people can have a hatred for it. The story has evolved from a divorce story where one partner hates it and one loves it to where it is now.”

Throughout the whole process, how do you maintain motivation and a good headspace?

“I never had bad feelings. It’s because I love it and I love making films. I really wanted to make the story as good as it can be. We spent like 50 hours writing it in the writer’s room. It was also a learning opportunity to as well because these ideas came from my head and I had to communicate it with 60 other people.

What are your plans for releasing it?

“60 people worked on this so it would be cruel if people didn’t watch it. We are currently looking at what festivals it can go out to. Obviously, there are a lot of horror festivals it would suit. YouTube would probably be the very last place we would stick it. We might even take the idea to screen Queensland.  I wouldn’t mind telling the idea again…”

Isabella Lee, Molly Humphries, Bailey Leis on set

TALKING MOVIES

What specific movies or shows inspired the Pallidura?

“The Babadook was a heavy one. I love the allegory of depression and grief. Oculus was another good one as well. The original idea was inspired by The Ring but I have never seen it, I have seen Scary Movie 3 though. I really like Jordan Peele’s movies, I’m on board for everything he does.

The Babadook

Are there any key writers and directors that inspire you?

“I love Tarantino. I was also watching Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul at the time and it’s where I got a lot of visual style from. Big fan of Spielberg but I didn’t use any of his techniques.”

What scares you personally when you watch horror?

“Not knowing. I hate jump scares and don’t find them scary. I just find them really annoying. I saw SPIRAL and that movie pissed me off because they just relied on loud noises. I also watched Dahmer and that had some terrifying moments, especially where the cops let a victim back in.

What is the worst thing people do at the cinemas?

Charlotte Chaffer-Brock, Nathan Simmons and Jude Buxton on set

“Fucking talk. Shut the fuck up when you watch a movie! I watched Halloween Kills last year and there was these people who kept talking and saying they didn’t find it scary. I can’t stand in, don’t ask me about the plot.”

The Future

 Where do you want the Australian film scene to be in 5 years?

“The movies they are making are more aimed at the older target audience. Movies like The Dry and Red Dog are created for that age demographic. I just think there should be movies about a random thing that happens in an Australian city. Like the Matrix was shot in Sydney is a perfect example. Ultimately, they just haven’t hit me as a target audience yet.”

If a film genie came to you with one wish, what would it be?

“I would love to direct a feature. If I was funded, I would love to write, direct and edit a feature and show it in the cinema with my family and friends.”

What’s next for you?

“Salty Dog Media. It’s my new business media company with Chris Radman where we make content for other people and we are open to collaborating with others.”

“Huge thanks to all the students involved in creating the Pallidura. Especially Abbey Rose who helped out as the series coordinator. Everyone should be super proud of what they have done. Can’t wait to show the world what all of us have made.”

All photos taken by Grace Newlands

Sam Cotton Wong and Nathan on set
Categories
Film Reviews

Is Don’t Worry Darling that bad? (No Spoiler Review )

After years of drama, gossip and rumours Olivia Wilde’s Don’t Worry Darling is finally here. Before the film was even released, it had been trashed for the performances and plot. This can instantly destroy a movie. Audiences go into the cinema jaded by reviews or potentially don’t even see it. So is Don’t Worry Darling as horrible as everyone says? Is Harry Styles’ performance that atrocious?

Don’t Worry Darling is one of the most beautiful looking films of the year. The cinematographer – Mathew Libatique – creates this pristine and elegant world. Every shot has the perfect light that accentuates this idyllic 1950s’ town. While the constant lens’ flares aren’t for me, I am 100% here for the world that he and Olivia Wilde have created.

Beautiful cinematography needs to be coupled with a well-constructed and tight plot. With a run time of 2 hours and 3 minutes, the audience must be kept engaged from the get-go. Unfortunately, I was not. I just found myself kind of bored in this movie. Scenes drag on for way for too long and once you figure out what’s coming, it just feels kind of bland. I know Olivia tried to include some moments to keep you hooked but they just weren’t enough. Ultimately, the beats of this story feel repetitive and dragged out.

What really failed for me in this movie was the horror. I understand it’s meant to be more psychological than physical, but it felt very flat. I cannot even recall some of the sequences because of how forgettable and repetitive it was. It didn’t feel like any new horror was brought to the table but instead just repeating what has been done in cinema for the last 30 years.

Florence Pugh certifies herself as an incredible actress. She is so talented at being scared that if all she did for the next 10 years was horror I wouldn’t mind. On top of this, Florence delivers some dodgy lines excellently. I truly believe she puts this film on her back and carries it to the finish line.

Now the backlash on Harry Styles’ performance is warranted – it’s not great. He isn’t even that bad it’s just that there are so many other talented actors out there who would have smashed this role. It always feels like he is trying to give an Oscar worthy performance by screaming and yelling a lot when it isn’t warranted and doesn’t make sense. In a movie this high budget and high concept, Harry doesn’t belong.

Everyone else is good. Chris Pine replicates this type of Andrew Tate man in a way that I haven’t seen in a film yet (no spoilers). Olivia Wilde shows off her comic abilities and adds this light-hearted touch to the film. Gemma Chan and Nick Kroll were amazing but just not in it enough. With all of Nick’s talents, he should have been in this film much more.

Before I go into spoilers, I want to highlight the soundtrack. John Powell has created a new and refreshing horror movie sound. Every time it played it made me genuinely remember to write about how good the music was. He has blended breathing, humming and music together to create a chilling horror theme that feels very different to everything being made right now.

!!!!SPOILERS!!! (RANT)

The twist in this movie is one of the most predictable and bland pieces of writing I have seen. 15 minutes into this film I had guessed what it was and spent the rest of the film praying it wasn’t that. The problem with Don’t Worry Darling is that the writer and director think they have this Sixth Sense level twist on their hands and spend the whole movie building up to it. But it isn’t. Instead, the audience should have been shown earlier what is going on and the rest of the film should have been her working it out and attempting to escape. Imagine if this film had a similar plot to the Truman Show but really focused on how horrifying and scary this situation is. There could have been stronger ties to abusive relationships and control instead of this washy garbage. There is just so much wasted potential for this high concept idea that really could have been something special.

Should you see it in cinemas?

No, this is definitely a streaming movie. While all the pieces are there, it ultimately just falls flat due to a predictable script. If Harry Styles wasn’t in this film, it would be on Amazon Prime right now.