Past Filmmakers

Stephanie Johnes
Bouncing Bulldogs

1. How did you come up with the idea for the film?
I started thinking that it would be cool to profile a less well-known sport and jump roping just sort of popped into my head. After doing a little research I was thrilled to discover that one of the best teams in the country is based right here in Chapel Hill, NC.

2. How long did the production process take?
It took about two months. Our first shoot was the Bulldogs performing at Festifall on Franklin Street in October 2003. We then taped a few practices and a Workshop in early November. We edited for a solid week and finished the film by mid December.

3. What challenges did you experience in the creation of the film?
Sam Hargrave and I spent about two hours one morning trying to get an anamorphic adapter off of his PD150. We felt like real idiots but we just couldn't figure it out! It was so frustrating. Finally we called a friend who told us how and it took about 2 seconds.

4. What is your favorite memory from creating the film?
Walking into the gym when the team is practicing is a great experience. It is so inspiring to see these kids working together, doing something that they truly love.

5. When someone has finished watching the film, what do you hope they take away from the experience?
I hope they feel like they learned something new. It would be really nice if they got to thinking about how everybody has the opportunity to make a difference in somebody else's life.

6. What type of reaction has your film received from viewers?
Viewers are usually surprised that these jumpers are such fantastic athletes. Adults sometimes get nostalgic about their own childhood jump roping, and are amazed by what kids in the sport are doing today.

7. What advice would you give to aspiring young filmmakers?
Show up on time, be nice to people, and remember how lucky you are to get to make a film!

8. Please tell us about the next film you plan to work on?
I am currently working on a feature-length documentary about the history of jump roping. It's going to show how this sidewalk game has grown into an internationally-competitive sport. I am profiling several teams and competitions, and will interview some of jump roping's legendary figures. I want to find out what it will take for rope skipping to become an Olympic sport.

9.  What are your thoughts on the film industry in NC?
I think the film industry in NC seems great.