Filmmaker Chris Hird-Saunders (THE SLOW DEATH)

THE SLOW DEATH, 22min,. Canada
Directed by Chris Hird-Saunders
A disturbed woman reanimates her recently deceased father’s corpse in a twisted, ambitious experiment intended to save humanity from the ongoing climate crisis.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

I was mostly driven to make another film out of the need to keep creating stuff. Covid in particular made me need to seek out my passion after feeling stiffled.

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

Too long! Haha. The very first draft was late 2019, and I locked picture a week ago. So yeah waaay too long.

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

Denial and Selfishness.

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

Self doubt and a lack of money.

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

I felt kind of in disbelief cuz I’ve been working on this for what feels like forever. It was very humbling and sweet finally hearing from an audience!

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

Probably since I was born, but didn’t actualize make the decision until high school.

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

Beetlejuice/Shrek 2

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

Your festival has already been so giving and supportive, others could learn from you!

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

It’s nerve wracking cuz the hope is everywhere I submit accepts me! But ultimately it’s a good and rewarding experience.

10. What is your favorite meal?

A simple chicken salad.

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

The Slow Death is essentially episode 1of a horror anthology series that I am working on.