L.A. RISES was the winner of BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY at the June 2022 LA DOCUMENTARY Film Festival.
1. What motivated you to make this film?
I was motivated by the injustice of the George Floyd murder.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
This Documentary took about a year to finish.
3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
The two words two describe this film are Intense & Real.
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
The biggest obstacle while creating this film was trying not to get shot at and arrested.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
My initial reaction to watching audience feedback was surprising. I was thankful that all the creative decisions came across to the audience.
Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I was 16 when I decided to start making films.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
The films I’ve seen most in my life are all Christopher Nolan movies. Then I had the chance to work on the Interstellar VFX miniature space unit, where all the space sequences were shot in camera.
8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
One element of the festival experience that would be great are live screenings.
9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
My experience working with FilmFreeway has been great.
10. What is your favorite meal?
My favorite meals are Mexican dishes.
11. What is next for you? A new film?
Next for me are two projects. One film is a short Called PG2020 which deals with and overload of media on the mind. Then the next is a T.V. reality pilot that deals with real life conversations through food.
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 