CONFESSIONS OF THE BAT played to rave reviews at the FAN FICTION Festival in August 2020.
Matthew Toffolo: What motivated you to make this film?
Ronald Henry: I have developed my creative flare since middle school and I decided to combine my love of stories and the art of filmmaking in order to make amazing stories. I have been a huge Batman fan since the age of 5, and I’ve always wanted to create my very own adaptation. There have been different adaptations on Batman but I wanted to try and attempt a similar dark and gritty story but balance it with its traditional fantasy approach. Superhero films are a trending topic and I felt this would be a good opportunity to further gain depth knowledge, specific insights within the arts of filmmaking, and receive feedback from professionals, creatives, and fans.
2. From theidea to the finished product, how longdid it take for you to make this short?
I started writing in June of 2018, then I decided to put it on hold.
In 2019, I decided to revisit the script and modify it into a pilot episode, because I was considering to turn the project into a web series.
Between January and May, we began the Pre-Production stage.
By the end of June, we began Production.
In August, we began Post Production.
And finally, the film was released in February of this year.
Altogether, from the idea to the finished product, it took 17 months to make this short.
3. How would you describe your short film in two words!?
Pure and Observant
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
The biggest obstacle was acting. As the Writer, Director, and Producer, you are in charge of the outcome of the project. But this time, I had to try and attempt at acting which I’ve never done before. Unfortunately, we ran out of time and we couldn’t find a suitable candidate for the role of The Joker’s henchmen. I took on the role but was nervous, but luckily Stephen (The Joker) supported me throughout the process. To my surprise, I also received positive feedback on my performance.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Shocked, overwhelmed, and in denial.
Watch the Audience FEEDBACK Video:
6. How did you come up with the idea for this short film?
I enjoy creating moralistic storylines in which the audience could relate to, but, with a dash of fantasy. One day, I decided to treat myself to a Batman marathon. I felt more connected with the character as an adult, and as the audience, it aims to put you in the shoes of the main character by following his journey through his past and present. We see the world through his eyes and gain his experience. I wanted to take that concept and adapt it into a script, which helped portray the humane perspective, unravels the emotional stress and journey a person must go through to seek redemption and purpose.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
The Dark Knight
8. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway, what are your feelings of the submission platform from a filmmaker’s perspective?
For a fan film project, I wasn’t sure what festivals would be interested, so I felt restricted. But it also gave me an opportunity to take my time and review what would be the best options. For this festival, I honestly wish I heard about it during my early years as a filmmaker. Not many festivals will take the time to review, analyse, share, promote, and provide feedback to your film. It’s a very welcoming and dedicated festival. I would encourage filmmakers to submit their film because they won’t be disappointed as they will go above and beyond in helping your film to be seen.
9. What song have you listened to the most times in your life?
Missy Elliot – Back In The Day
10. What is next for you? A new film?
Yes, I am currently and attempting to produce an animated short film. I am also considering revisiting Batman and create a web-series that will continue on from ‘The Confessions Of The Bat.’
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 