Brian A. Metcalf is an Asian-American writer, director, producer and actor and is a member of the Directors Guild of America, Writers Guild of America, Producers Guild and Visual Effects Society. He previously worked on games, DVDs, web, EPKs, music videos, film and documentaries for the studios. He is currently working on a number of film and television projects. Brian lives in Los Angeles.
I interviewed Brian during the AFM. Here is what he had to say:
How long from writing the script to finishing the film did it take you?
BRIAN: I started conceiving the idea many years ago actually. But actually finishing up the script was early last year. We finished filming at the beginning of this year and we are currently working in post on it now. So it's still not entirely finished yet. We spent a great deal of time showing early cuts to test audiences to get their feedback.
It seems most people have a hard time making films these days, but you continue to turn them out. What is your secret?
BRIAN: I don't know if I have a secret so much as just trying to network and pitch like crazy to get the next project off the ground. I guess it's alot of having to be a saleman and find people that connect with your material.
How did you go about casting the film?
BRIAN: We had talked with a casting director named Bruno Rosato who helped us with casting our talent. We then reached out to a lot of that talent and were fortunate enough to find a solid group of actors who related to the material. On top of that, they have been some of the most committed and talented group I have worked with to date.
What inspired you to write this film?
BRIAN: I had an ex-girlfriend who ended up getting herself involved with drugs when she started hanging around the wrong crowd. It was a very sad thing as all I could really do is watch her destroy herself as drug addicts tend to only get help when they really want help.
Do you have any stories from filming (good or bad) that stick out the most?
BRIAN: What I found so interesting is seeing some of the actors play really bad guys who happen to be the nicest people in reality and having extras avoiding them in fear they were really that way.
You have made multiple films with Vision Films. How important is it to have a sales agent on board from the start?
BRIAN: It certainly helps to have a sales agent from the beginning because it allows you to get their perspective and knowledge to help sell and presell the film.
How important is it for filmmakers to attend markets?
BRIAN: Attending a market is very key as it allows you to network, sell your current project and get your next one off the ground.
How have audiences reacted to the film?
BRIAN: We have had a wide variety of reactions from early test screenings until now. And the most recent one with the most recent edit was very positive by our audiences.
What are some festivals it will screen in?
BRIAN: We have still to finish the film but stay tuned!
What will you be directing next?
I have several projects on the horizon I'm not allowed to openly discuss as of yet. But it all depends which one hits first.
