“Pre-Existing Freedom #BLM” played to rave reviews at the May 2022 BLACK Feedback Film Festival.
1. What motivated you to make this film?
The passing of a relative and friends to Covid. Also mourning the loss of what I thought American was. I really took the murder of George Floyd personal and was hurt by the lack of respect for others and science.
The biggest motivator was to demonstrate standing up is always better than sitting down.
Facing up to conflict insures a far greater desired outcome than avoiding, living in denial and hoping it will all go away.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
It took about two months. From about April 1st to July. The murder of George Floyd and Rayshard Brooks accelerated the process.
3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Black White or Light Dark
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
The disconnection from the world around me. The isolation and the singular lonely path of making something few people understood.
Many people I knew were watching streaming and Tiger King. I was trying to unpack the universe.
They some protested via hashtags. I protested by being present and recording what was going on around me.
People who were afraid were my biggest obstacle.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Complete openness and mad respect. I had no idea the film could be so effecting to others. I was humbled and felt blessed by their insights, humanity and intelligence.
Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
Since I was a teen. I have always wanted to make films. I prefer the road less traveled in life. My realization about the universe came early.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
I Pretty much have seen everything Alfred Hitchcock. Hence my tendency to utilize black and white. So the specific answer is Psycho. That’s my jam.
8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Connections to other great minds. Creative, administrative and marketing. Finance and distribution don’t hurt either.
9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Nothing but the best with Film Freeway and your organization. I spent my time evaluating festivals and yours rather than navigating the platform and getting confused or lost.
10. What is your favorite meal?
Anything Italian, Japanese or Ethiopian
11. What is next for you? A new film?
I want to bring this type of messaging into the general public. Calls to action. Ignite corporate companies to assist with a humane intent and inspire people to come together.
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 