Interview with Filmmaker Zack Arch (THE CRYING CHEF)

THE CRYING CHEF played to rave reviews at the February 2018 Comedy Feedback Film Festival in Los Angeles.

Matthew Toffolo: What motivated you to make this film?

Zach Arch: Our group Flambé had committed to making a new comedy sketch or short every week for about a year. This was an idea pitched by Kathy Dorn (the actress who played TCC) and we all were very excited by the chance to play out a Chef’s Table parody.

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

It took us about 2 weeks.

3. How would you describe your short film in two words!?

Ridiculous, Committed

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

We had no sound equipment or lights other than a couple clamp lights. All of the locations were only available for maybe one or two hours. Actually, thinking back, it was the editing process. We improvised the entire film. So when it came down to structuring the narrative, it was very much like piecing together an actual documentary where the talking heads and the content aren’t always super coherent.

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

It was mind-blowing and very inspiring. Everyone was so encouraging. It was so special to hear a room full of strangers enjoy so many different aspects of the film for so many different reasons.

Watch the Audience FEEDBACK Video of the Short Film:

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

I don’t know how Kathy’s mind works. She has these amazing, grand ideas that need to be made. We just all came together behind it and played around.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

Jaws

8. Besides film, what else are you passionate about?

I make wind chimes and music. Also photography and travel.

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

I feel like it has to be some top 40 song from 2002 that plays in the background of every department store and generic public space. I don’t know the name of it or the artist who made it. But society has decided that it will be included in the soundtrack of everyone.

10. What is next for you? A new film?

Flambé is back at it. We’re going to be whipping up some new sketches. We’re also developing a web series revolving around time-travel and death and time-travel death. I also am going to begin post on a slice of life documentary I shot about a year ago following a group of four life-long female best friends as they navigate some difficult questions the summer after graduation.

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every single month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 3 times a month. Go to http://www.wildsoundfestival.com for more information and to submit your work to the festival.