Interview with Filmmaker Duffy Hecht (SHOPPING CART PEOPLE)

1. What motivated you to make this film?

Shine a light on the issue.

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

Approximately one year.

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

Compassion, please.

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

Committing to the storyline. Keeping it focused on something seemingly small and hoping it would tell the bigger story too.

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

Amazing, gratifying. I’ve been in quite a few film festivals but I’ve never been able to see and hear so many reactions. A wonderful gift.

Watch the Audience Feedback Video:

Watch the Audience Feedback Video:

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

Teenager or even younger.

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

70’s: Scorsese, Ashby, Coppola. But if I had to pick one: The Godfather.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

As with # 5 above, this is a rare opportunity to see and hear in depth reactions. As far as I know, what you’re doing is unique. So I’d say keep doing what you’re doing. It will help filmmakers make more films.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

Excellent. My second film with them. Before that it was with Without a Box.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Weekend breakfast.

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

A fiction film inspired by Putin’s War and his threat of a nuclear strike. 1) After the nuclear accident in Chernobyl in ’86, children experienced nightmares about the dangers of living in a radioactive world. And 2) In Hawaii on January 13th, 2018 there was an incoming ballistic missile alert: “This is not a test, this is not a drill.” Residents were advised to seek shelter: The message was sent at 8:07 a.m. and was in effect for 38 Minutes and 13 seconds. This became know as 38 Minutes Of Terror.