Anna Dudley
ilovefilmmore@hotmail.com

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

I was always fascinated with the history of Winston - Salem and Greensboro. A big chunk of the civil rights movement was born from this area. It was such an intriguing thing to realize that people who indeed changed the world came from Winston - Salem and Greensboro. Because of this epiphany I wanted to explore these people's lives and make the civil rights movement personal.

2. How long did the production process take?

It took a good 2 years to complete the script. This was because I only worked on it on and off. We had about 5 days of shooting, about 4 months preproduction, and 3 months of post production. All in all it took about 3 years to make this film from start to finish.

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

Getting extras. It was hard convincing people to come and work for free. Also it was hard to recreate the 1960's with the low budget we had. There is a lot of faking going on. But that's part of being a filmmaker.

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

Completing the last shot.

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

That there were brave people who risked their lives to ensure your freedom. Not just African -American freedom, but everyone's.

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

A lot start crying. They tell me it reminds them of what it was like back then and it brings to the surface a lot of old memories. One guy told me he thought it was a classic. Some people don't like it. Usually those are white people. I don't know but they just don't feel convinced by it. I think it's because they've never experienced institutionalized racism.

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

I have only one answer to that and it's follow your heart.

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

I've decided to be like Kubrick in this area. I'm not telling.

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

Great, wonderful, professional,hard working, PASSIONATE, people who will help you to their wits end get your movie made. That's my thought.