Past Filmmakers

Chris Hite
Sir Josh 9:30

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

The idea came together about six months after my initial meeting with Josh. His story is so unique that it almost wrote itself. The visual imagery of his environment made it easy to piece together the puzzle. When I approached him about the idea of producing a short documentary on his experiences, he was beyond excited.

2. How long did the production process take?

The actual shoot took place over a week and then was in post for roughly two-three weeks. As far as film is concerned, I like to work fast and go with a lot of my gut instincts. I tend to think very visually rather than trying to derive meaning from the content. So I went into the project with basically the whole documentary story boarded in my mind.

3. What challenges did you experience?

Mainly the obvious challenge of shooting with a three-chip camera in an automobile. Cinema tends to depict cars as rolling palaces; they are anything but when you lug a ten-pound camera inside. We had to be selective about our shooting time as well so that lighting was to our advantage.

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

I think really just the joy that Josh got from telling his story. It's not everyday that we get these opportunities. I'd love to document every person on the planet if I could. I think everyone has a story that is interesting and visually rich in some respect.

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

Just that they will cherish any opportunity they have ever had. Our culture has really gotten away from appreciating the little things and has moved towards the “why aren't you famous yet?” model. Value every minute and never take for granted what you have.

6. What type of reaction has your film received?

Its been good. A lot of people find it comedic, yet a little sad overall. I think that definitely sums up the subject himself, and to a larger extent, isn't that life?

7. What advice do you give to aspiring filmmakers?

You have a voice. Its not the easiest thing to find it, but experiment and you'll discover it. A lot of industry types have shunned my work as outside the “Hollywood “ model of cinema. To them I say, “thank you” for the compliment.

8. What is your next film?

I am developing some experimental film ideas but nothing on the burners as of now. I don't believe in making films just for the sake of making them. They have to come alive in me first, and then I make them. And as I prefer to do my own shooting and editing, it can take some time.

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

I am glad to see more grassroots just taking charge and doing it. What are you waiting for? Make a film!

The ‘industry' does as the ‘industry' sees fit, we can't change that. Film Incentives are great way to lure in the big dollar pictures, but I think we really should focus on ways for local filmmakers to get funding for their films.