SUMMERVILLE, 26min., USA
Directed by Anthony Di Pietro
After an Alien invasion, the invaders decide to convert humans to a work force… An underground resistor, the Ghost, has some special skills that helps in the fight.
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9805310/reference/
Get to know writer/producer/actor Paul Darrigo:
1. What motivated you to make this film? This started out with “Let’s shoot a quick scene” Then the passion got the best of us and here we are.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? At least 3 years. Multiple editors, re-shoots and script/story changes. Evidently, I took over editing and really had to make this happen. We went over budget a bit but I found 3 key people to finish the film.
3. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? The Story was first, then we were over zealous on we could get done by asking friends. Plus people didn’t follow through.
4 What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video? I was touched that the reviewers extrapolated things from the story I was wondering if it would land. I went with the “episodic feel” with the ending leaving people with more to come. The toughest parts to handle were the time jump sections. It is also emotionally rewarding that the film said something for people… it feels like the hard work paid off.
5. When did you realize that you wanted to make films? When I was in martial arts. I loved fight scenes. I studied stage combat in NY/NJ 30 years ago. Then, to acting classes where the Michael Chekhov technique made acting fun.
6. What film have you seen the most in your life? Either Wall Street or Road House!
7. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your film making career? Collaborating and generating a network of willing film makers to help each other. That always seems like a no brainier though it is tough to sustain. I love watching the films, see people’s creativity… that makes me want to wok with them on the next thing.
8. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site? The site is very easy to submit too. There are so many festivals some with similar names, so you have to manage closely who you submit to and why.
10. What is next for you? A new film? I swore I would never do a no budget film again. This is my third. FBI GUYS was a TV pilot I did back in 2006 which I still think should be made. Currently, now that I recovered from this film, I am looking for the next thing.
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 