Brett Ingram
bingram@ipass.net

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

For some time, I had wanted to make a film about severe, chronic anxiety but wasn't sure how to approach it. The idea for the film developed through conversations with the subject, Reade Whinnem, after I learned that he suffered from panic anxiety disorder.

2. How long did the production process take?

The interview was shot in one hour. I then worked, on and off, for four years on the imagery, editing, and sound.

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

The biggest challenge was deciding exactly what story to tell. After that, there were the obvious challenges of translating complex internal emotional content into concrete imagery.

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

My favorite memory from the production was the moment I saw the editing coming together, when the story really took shape.

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

I hope viewers will be moved by Reade's story and that they will learn something about a serious - and fairly common - disorder. It would be nice if the film encouraged hope among those who suffer the same or similar troubles and compassion among those who do not.

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

Many people have come forward to relate similar experiences. For some, the film has given them hope. For others, it has simply made them feel less alone in their own plight. I would like to add that the most rewarding commentary was from the subject of the film who said he loved it!

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

I still consider myself one of those. So, all I can offer is my own approach:

1. Be true to yourself and the rest will follow.
2. Make your own opportunities.
3. Take your time, get it right.

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

Two projects are currently in the works. One is a collaboration with filmmaker Jim Haverkamp - a short documentary portrait of North Carolina musician and christian performance artist Scotty Irving. The other film is a feature length documentary about Seattle's legendary animator Bruce Bickford.

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

There are quite a few talented and creative people in North Carolina with original stories to tell. I wish there were more resources and financial support for locals to realize their visions in film and television. But, as I said in number 7, we must make our own opportunities.