POGONOPHOBIA was awarded BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY at the August 2020 COMEDY Film Festival.
Matthew Toffolo: What motivated you to make this film?
Victor McGowan: After meeting the writer at a funeral (of all places) I was immediately taken by his elevator pitch for his script; “A young man who is afraid of beards”. That’s all it took to pique my interest and once I read it, I knew it was a winner.
Also, having Tom Ryan come on board as director was such a privilege for me as I am a fan of his work and was eager to find a project for the two of us. His vision and leadership on set was instrumental to the film being what it is.
Victor McGowan
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this short?
Nearly two years!
3. How would you describe your short film in two words!?
Quirky, sweet
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
The stars aligned for us during the production so the only obstacle was the usual issues you have with low budget films e.g finite shooting schedule, long hours etc.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was very taken by everyone’s connection to it. We hoped that it would stand out amongst other shorts shown at festivals and that was evident in the reaction video!
Watch the Audience FEEDBACK Video:
6. How did you come up with the idea for this short film?
It was the brainchild of the writer, Damian Ryan who is an up and coming star.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Probably Pulp Fiction, I know the film by heart.
8. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway, what are you feelings of the submission platform from a filmmaker’s perspective?
I love it! Their filters are very efficient and it’s reassuring that you’re not submitting to a scam!
9. What song have you listened to the most times in your life?
I think, ‘Without Me’ by Eminem.
10. What is next for you? A new film?
I have another short, ‘Stacey’s Place’ that’s currently doing the festival route. I am also in development with another producer, Dominic Wright of Ripple World Pictures, for a political satire set in Ireland during the Cold War!
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 