1. What motivated you to make this film?
In Australia we are having a commission of enquiry into defense and veterans suicides. This is a culmination of many years of a lack of action on this difficult issue. Most families are touched by war in some way. I wished to look at the issue of patriotism and how there can be different versions of it.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
About five months.
3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Patriotism reflected
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Ensuring the sensitivities of people effected by war were considered well
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was humbled by their engagement and impressed with their eloquence.
Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
When I found out how expensive it is to have others make your music videos! No, seriously I’ve always been interested in photography and video but music always took the front seat. In this project the video and the music were crafted together.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Mad Max Thunderdome.
8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Contributors are always looking for positive feedback and recognition they can easily post on social media. The audience feedback you provide was a great feature. Other festivals dont provide such material and we have to craft our own. So keep doing that stuff!
9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Yes, good but their are many quasi (bogus?) festivals who are really just after your entrance fees. They need to get rid of those.
10. What is your favorite meal?
Pad Thai
11. What is next for you? A new film?
Video clip for our next music release.
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 