MASK, 15min., USA, Drama
Directed by Peter Jang
When a combat veteran tries to escape his PTSD by working out at a boxing gym, a confrontation with a mysterious man amplifies his worst fears.
Get to know the director:
1. What motivated you to make this film?
Depression and suicide, in and outside of military related PTSD, is an under-served topic. I wanted to create an experiential film that cinematically personifies the mask many veterans wear after they return from war and are expected to reintegrate back into society. It if we, as a country, expect our soldiers to throw themselves into the crucible of war, then we at the very least have to be ready to take care of them when they get home. Four times as many soldiers have died by suicide than in military conflicts. Too many of those happened in VA parking lots. I wanted to capture some of that pain in this film and cultivate advocacy for mental health in general.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
The beginning of this started years ago but, after shooting, the post production process was stalled and picked up many times over years.
3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Emotionally impactful.
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
As the director and lead actor in this film, jumping from the highly emotional takes to an objective directors assessment of shots was a great exercise in emotional control and performance under pressure.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was happy to hear that the topic was well received and the reviewers felt the gravity that was intended.
Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I have played with cameras and filmmaking since childhood, but I never thought I would have a chance to be a part of the film industry. After college, I found my way into the film industry through stunt work over the last eleven years and got lucky enough to work with and train under some of the greatest film minds in the world. With over 100 acting and stunt credits in television and feature films, I have learned by watching it being done at the highest levels and am now bringing my own style and perspective audiences around the world.
7. What is next for you? A new film?
I am planning on shooting my first feature film next year.
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 