Past Filmmakers

Chad Concelmo
optiville@aol.com

1. How did you come up with the idea for the film?

I have always wanted to start writing "original" fairy tales for a new, younger audience. I grabbed basic ideas from numerous different tales for this film (evil step sisters like in "Cinderella," the hair from "Rumplestiltzkin,"etc.). These were stepping stones in my attempt to create a new "fairy tale" for the present. Something kids and their families could enjoy.

2. How long did the production process take?

The production process, including pre and post took about 1 year. The ACTUAL production of the film was 2 weeks.

3. What challenges did you experience in the creation of the film?

I learned how vital it is to be able to work woth people. We had a large crew, and to juggle all of these people was hard. Also, since the production was very "complex," meaning big sets, costumes and the like, I had to learn how to keep everything under control and on time (and budget!). The whole THING was a learning process for me.

4. What is your favorite memory from creating the film?

The BEST part by FAR was seeing my original, "little" vision be brought to life on the set and on the screen. To start with an idea that I really loved and see it transform into an actual, moving work of art was AMAZING. Seeing a three-dimensional version of your imagination is pretty surreal. It was the best feeling AND memory I had from the project.

5. When someone has finished watching the film, what do you hope they take away from the experience?

I hope they take away a sense of imagination, a sense of wonder. I know that sounds cheesy, but I really like it when the audience is sucked in to the film and doesn't want to leave that world. To be part of the characters and story is really important to me. Also, I want someone out there to want to write, draw, create, anything after seeing my film that gets his/her mind and imagination working! (ha!, that WAS pretty cheesy...sorry).

6. What type of reaction has your film received from viewers?

It has received a pretty great reaction, especially from children. Having kids talk about my film for days on end is quite possibly the best feeling I could have. And my film alone has got me A LOT of attention out here in LA with William-Morris, Dreamworks, and Sony...I can't complain one bit about the response it has received.

7. What advice would you give to aspiring young filmmakers?

I think you should stick to your guns. I mean, if you want to make something, get it made. Don't sacrifice your imagination or creativity just to get by. Without ORIGINALITY in this world, we wouldn't have HALF the interesting things in our culture. If YOU believe in your project, it has to be good enough to get made by somebody. (Also, be nice to people...that matters the most out here in LA...trust me.)

8. Please tell us about the next film you plan to work on?

I have some scripts in the works that I want to get made. The producers of "American Beauty" want to read some of my work and help me get some of these projects made. I'm crossing my fingers and hoping for the best!

9. What are your thoughts on the film industry in NC?

I think it's great!!! The School of the Arts, especially, has such an encouraging and GREAT program itself that it really leaks into the state. I also commend N.C. for its willingness and open-mindedness to let films shoot in the state. It is a great way to promote diversity and the arts in the South. Go Tarheels!