Interview with Director Tom Skowronski (NOVAK)

Short Film played at the June 2017 Comedy FEEDBACK Film Festival in Los Angeles

Matthew Toffolo: What motivated you to make this film?

Tom Skowronski: This script was written by Matt Wexler and was a great example of how nothing is more painful than watching really bad stand-up. That combined with the idea of capturing a common film scenario in a new way were the big motivating factors in making this project.

From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this short?

About 3 months.

How would you describe your short film in two words!

Dark comedy.

What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

Mixing practical in-camera effects with VFX.

What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

It was actually really nice to hear the positive feedback and we all really appreciated the experience.

Watch the Audience FEEDBACK of the short film:

How did you come up with the idea for this short film?

The idea of using stand-up as an interrogation tool was created by Matt Wexler. As a stand-up comic, he has witnessed some pretty bad sets which is how the idea was born.

What film have you seen the most in your life?

Either Rapid Fire or Streets Of Fire. Definitely something with “fire” in the title.

What song have you listened to the most times in your life?

Probably the Ultimate Warrior’s theme song.

What is next for you? A new film?

I don’t know.