John Kestner - Interview

Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?

Yes.  And, thankfully, early on, so my own youthful stubbornness spurned me on.  If you truly love what you're doing, what do you care what anyone says?  Tell yourself, "Next time I'll do better!"  I was also fortunate to be able to discern which critics were helpful, no matter how blunt or rude, and which were just being jerks.

How can you stay focused on your goal?

That's never been a problem for me.  

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?

I haven't.  There was a moment when someone on the crew flipped out over something recently, but everyone came together to calm him down and keep the shoot going.  That's the priority.  Say and do what you have to do to keep things moving and get your shots!

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

If I have talent, I think of it as a blessing.  I can also see how people around me would think of it as a curse.  Especially if they have to listen to me talk about movies over lunch or dinner again and again.

What would you like to improve about yourself as an actor/director/screenplayer?

I don't market myself very well.  I love everything I do when writing or directing, but I don't promote myself at all.  I'm hoping that a good body of work will do that eventually, but I know it's something I need to work on.

What's the worst critic you have received?

There were several, and fortunately they were all early on.  I've been blessed to have family and friends who gave honest feedback, which could be harsh and dismissive in the beginning, but it only made me more determined.  And grateful.

If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?

There's never been a Plan B.  There's only been wanting to do it, or doing it.  

If Cinema was a color what would it be?

Technicolor!

A day without a movie is...

A day with a book.  That's the only alternative. 

If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despice but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?

If the project promoted something I despised?  Probably not.  But if I saw a possibility to satirize it, or pull a stronger (and perhaps contrary view of it)...that's possible!

What's your greatest ambition?

To someday write and direct a feature film.

What's your biggest fear?

Letting down a cast and crew.

Does music helps you to play/direct, write?

Helps me write.  Everyone has been very focused on sets so the music might prove to be a distraction, so we haven't tried that yet.

You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?

Whether with silence or sound, you're telling a story, so you use either one to tell it.  Some of the best scenes in some sound films have been completely silent.

Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....

I'm not thinking that far ahead yet!  

For you a Film is...

At its best - the distillation of human nature. Magical 

What do you feel when you're acting & filmmaking?

There is always a point where you think what you are doing is awful. I’ve learned to push though. Whether that’s learning lines, finding a character or writing and producing a project. I like to work on my own a lot which doesn’t help, but I recent years I have learned that working with others and in a team is the way to go. “If you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go far, go together”. African Proverb 

You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna watch it?

I’m lucky enough to be a voting member of BAFTA, and help choose the film awards each year. It’s something that I take very seriously and am privileged to be part of. This means we see a lot of films, and sometimes they are at home rather than where they are supposed to be seen - in the movie theatre. 

I’ve recently shot a move with Orlando Bloom and we got to chat a bit and I discovered we are very similar. I’d like to get to know him more maybe - and I’d let him choose. I think that’s polite - plus I like a surprise. 

Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?

She is right of course. I do believe somewhat in manifestation and the late of attraction. Whilst I think it’s probably rooted in science, I think there is merit in it. 

I would recommend everyone, whatever their profession and place in life to believe that the dreams are possible. Never give up EVER. It’s a marathon not a sprint. In lockdown I ran a daily live journaling session.  Journaling has helped me over the years to understand that genuinely nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it. I’d encourage anyone who has a dream to write it down and write it down regularly. 

It feels a bit cringe at first, especially if you’re British like myself, but I recommend the process and can testify that it brings results. 

Can you live just of your passion?

If you are an actor you need a side hustle. You may think you don’t, but all actors have other sources of income that are flexible enough to engage them and take up their time. 

I am unfathomably grateful for WeAudition, the actors website and app for self tape reader on demand. 

I am a co-founder of WeAudition and I work on this project whenever I’m not acting - and usually even when I am. 

We set up WeAudition in 2015 and it was a project between Hollywood actor friends. I now run WeAudition with Darren Darnborough and we have grown the company into a full time job.

The synergy between being able to have this website and app as my ‘day job’ and it still being about acting means that I am one of the very few that is able to live off my passion. 

What's more important talent or luck?

A good attitude and resilience. 

What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?

Being recognised with the 'Best Actor' award for my role in Man Made is a great honour. The film touches on mental health and the struggle to adjust after trauma, especially for veterans dealing with social expectations upon returning home. I was pleased to bring this story to life and am grateful for the recognition by the London Movie Awards.

Are you satisfied about your career?

2022 was a great year for me, with the opportunity to travel the world shooting a blockbuster film, winning Best Actor for my role in 'Man Made' at the London Movie Awards, and welcoming my second child. I'm grateful for the successes and look forward to continued growth in the future, with aspirations for leading roles in more films and recurring roles in quality TV productions.

Which is the worst moment on set? 

Things go wrong in filmmaking. That the nature of it. Its how you deal with it that counts 

Have you ever lied to get a part/job?

Absolutely not. It's a marathon not sprint and the people you meet on the journey is the best part. Why would I lie to them. I’ve probably post out to people who do, but that’s not my style. Also, just being lazy… my memory isn’t good enough so easier to always tell the truth! 

If you should win an Oscar your first thoughts would go to…

My family for their support would always get my first thoughts. And the audience who engage with my work and support me. Thank you to everyone who sends me messages of support and encouragement, and to the Community of amazing actors in WeAudition! 

What would you like your next role to be? 

I'd love to do a rom-com or something cheesy with a big audience - or a studio sci-fi - I do love a good set! 

Who's your biggest fan?

From the beginning my biggest fan was my very good friend Marek. It was he who taught me that I have a right and even an obligation towards myself to follow my heart’s path. I always felt his genuine enthusiasm and belief in my ideas (which for some people were a little bit crazy) and that gave me a boost. Recently, I’ve started to feel a lot of support from my daughter, as well, who is now a young woman and hopefully doing a good job at translating this interview:)

What brings you inspiration the most?

My biggest driving force to create are my inspirations… I can’t explain or even understand where they come from… 

When I was little I thought God brings inspirations only to the poets, whose poems we would learn at school, and that’s why for many, many years I took the stirrings of my soul for granted…

However at some point I have felt this huge sorrow over not writing down all these moving, funny, beautiful words, sentences, stories which would unexpectedly appear in my head only to vanish into nothingness in a moment… Thus for many years now I always carry something to write on and with, and wherever I am, whenever I feel an inspiration I pause my work, conversation, walk etc. and immediately write down whatever comes to me, and then when I have more time I refine it like a precious diamond.

Not long ago, in connection to horrible events in, neighboring Poland, Ukraine came to me this poem:

Other

today you are very important, sir 

holding your big gun

with your thousand tanks

and everyone is afraid of you 

it’s not like before

when the other hurt you, sir 

and there was nobody

to stand up for you

to cuddle

to play

please, on behalf of the defenseless, sir 

as you, too, were once a little boy

without cannons or guns

the other who raised a hand on you, sir 

was, they say, also once alone

and cried out in pain and from the cold 

at the hand of another hurt boy

or a girl with a braid, betrayed

and this is everything

the whole history of the world 

from the beginning until today

would you be so kind, sir

to stop the course of history 

I am quite serious

you can see for yourself, sir 

there are no others here

we are all just

the same

(Translation: Jennifer Zielińska and Nina Sanetra)

Which actor or director would you like to work with?

Of course there are many amazing actors that I would love to work with, some of which I can already very clearly see in my next project. There are also numerous directors that I would happily learn from or even just talk to. But if I am to choose one person, I think it won’t be a surprise that it’s Pedro Almodóvar.

 Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?

Yes, „Cranford”. While Elizabeth Gaskell really brilliantly captured the main characters and their quirks, jokes, dramas as well as conveying the charm of the world that has long been gone, I couldn’t help feeling it’s an excellent but preliminary draft of a script in comparison to the movie.

 What's the movie that taught you the most?

Recently, in a span of two weeks, I watched Łukasz Grzegorzek’s film titled “Moje wspaniałe życie” as many as four times. It’s a great rarity for me. And despite the fact that in my opinion the movie is beautiful and worth watching, I have spent a long time trying to figure out what was it about it that moved me so much. I finally realized that the main female character has exceeded the threshold on which I have stopped. I felt a little bit like a child that wants to continuously listen to the same story, because it subconsciously feels like the tale will tell her how to deal with an important challenge that life puts in front of her, it indicates the direction of actions she must take to, just like the character, fulfill the life’s mission and find her desired treasure.

bout your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?

Yes, there were times I thought I don’t have the strength to do this anymore. But looking at it from a perspective, I can see that whenever I was on a brink of giving up, new possibilities would appear.

On set what excites you the most?

When, whilst shooting a scene, I was telling a story to my seven year old actress, in order for her to be able to get more into her character, and then she responded with: “O yes, this exactly the way I love when you work with me”. Or a complete silence of the crew, when we were all gathered around the screen, watching over and over a scene that has just been shot and really moved us.

And what scares you the most ?

The sight of an actress who cut her hair and I was just about to ask for to do some reshoots.

What's your next project?

I want to make a feature movie about women’s power and solidarity. It’s a story about women that meet at a weakly workshop led by a well-known therapist. The workshop is titled “Woman’s power”. It was supposed to last for a year and completely change the life of each participant. However only after couple of meetings the leading therapist loses her apartment, her savings and the license to practice. Women’s reactions vary: some feel lost, lied to, some sympathize with the therapist and some want their money back which the therapist doesn’t have anymore. Ultimately however they all decide to set up an informal group to give each other support… And what happens next? That you will find out when I find a cool producer;)

You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?

I would happily duplicate carriers of auteur cinema directors, like: Charlie Chaplin, Federico Fellini, Ingmar Bergman, Pedro Almodóvar, Krzysztof Kieślowski. These are all Artists that managed to reach a wide variety of audience while telling stories close to their own hearts.

An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....

Inspirations, presentiments, visions and great desire to materialize them all.

For you Cinema is....

Dreams and magic dancing together on the ground.

Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?

I love Black and white movies. I think they have this compelling aura: a little bit old-fashioned, a little bit naive but full of elegance and magic. 

Sometimes black and white is better at conveying the ambiance of the movie, for example the many shades of gray in the portrayal of landscapes in Paweł Pawlikowski’s movie “Ida”.

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

Yes, daydreamed:)

 Do you think you're gonna win it?

I hope so:)

I remember that three years ago, when the movie “Parasite” directed by Joon-ho Bong got an Oscar, my then nineteen year old daughter, yelled to me: “Mum, mum come here! Look he doesn’t know English either and he got an Oscar!” ...That was comforting :)

Who's your biggest fan?

My lovely wife and son, Baron Chan Leung Shui are my biggest fans, I would first share my new story ideas to them to test whether the ideas is interesting or not (laugh). And from another angle, I hope that movie can move people’ s heart and soul. That is the most important. 



What brings you inspiration the most?

Suffering, obstacles and unfortune in life are my inspiration, as life is hard, and making an art is even harder, art is about the life attitude and wisdom how artists transform something unfortunate into another things. If you are serious or pessimistic about life, that would become tragedy, if you are optimistic, that would become comedy, if you still hope to find a comic redemption out of tragedy, that would be tragic comedy. 


Which actor or director would you like to work with?

Hard to say, it depends on story first, I believe story is the king in creativity and  filmmaking, then to search for suitable actors or directors in later stages. 


Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?

Yes, from film adaptation angle, Ang Lee’s “Lust Caution”, the original novel is written by Eileen Chang, the story is about a young woman, Wang Jia Zhi, gets swept up in a dangerous game of emotional intrigue with a powerful political figure, Mr. Yee during World War 2. Ang’s filmic version can dig the complexity of sex and love, temptation and danger, gender power, body politics and macro political background in depth. The first scene about the playing Mahjong is already a sophisticated metaphor of women’s psychological and power struggle. 


What's the movie that taught you the most?

Great movies can teach people lots of life experience and wisdom you never experienced. Our physical life is limited. We can experience other people ‘s life through the movie story. We can have empathy with Egypt Prince and fate of Jews when we understand the story of Moses. 



About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?


Sometimes, people would doubt themselves about their talent for Art. However, I think the effort in pursuing for art is still worthy no matter whether there is an outcome or not. As art life is a searching journey. 

On set what excites you the most?

As a film director, it excites me most when I watch how the pages on script transform into a visual picture shot by shot. It is so magic and amazing like dreams come true. 


And what scares you the most?

I enjoy every moment on set, so nothing scares me indeed.


What's your next project?
I am currently interest in exploring the metaverse film with the metahuman or avatar. To explore the true self identity and inner value of human being. And I hope my students can join it, we would happily share innovative ideas, art form and style from each other. 

You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?
I don’t want to repeat other artists, although they are real masters. I just want to become the best of myself although I am not genius. And I am hard working. 


An director/screenplayer is made of...

.
A good director and screenwriter is the passion and enthusiasm for creativity in film. The film director should insist on originality and pursuit the goodness of life no matter how hard life is. He can transform the bitterness, unfortune and suffering of life into the beauty of art and kindness of human nature. 


For you Cinema is...

For me, a film is life, and life is full of uncertainty and surprise, happiness and sadness. People must walk on life journey and experience what it will happen. Like a quote from Forrest Gump in 1994, when the lead character Forrest Gump (played by Tom Hanks) says “My mom always said life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get.”


Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?

Our physical life is colorful. But Black and White movies record our life in B and W vision. it creates a kind of unspeakable and mysterious charm. For example, Citizen Kane by Orson Welles in 1941. It is classic, and the classic never dies. 



Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

Yes, filmmaker would surely have a dream of winning an Oscar in life. If I am lucky enough for it. my mother is my first enlightening teacher who bring me to watch the first movie in my life. And my lovely wife and my son must be accompanied with me. 

What brings you inspiration the most?


I am keen on experimental films. I'm interested in mixing various art forms: from poetry to music to painting. Cinema is an important form of synthesis. I define myself as an intermedial artist.

Which actor or director would you like to work with?


I would accept to work as a composer and sound designer for various known directors.

Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?


“Up in the Air” by Jason Reitman; “Apocalypse Now” by F.F. Coppola; “Red Alert” by Peter George; “Dr. Strangelove” by S. Kubrick; “Mr. Holmes” by B. Condon; “Metropolis” by F. Lang; Sideways by Alexander Payne…just to mention some.

What's the movie that taught you the most?


“Dead Poets Society”, a film directed by Peter Weir.“Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary!” It is a real lesson of life.

About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything? 

No, never give up. Art is a difficult work, but it can pay you better than other jobs or careers.

On set what scares you the most?


Ignorance, baseness and the desire to appear at all costs.

What's your next project?


I’m producing 4 different experimental films and I am engaged in the production of an all-Italian animated cartoon produced with the support of some producers and important Italian voice actors. In these projects I’m working as a director and composer.

You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose? 

.
There  are a lot of people that I deeply admire: R. Scott, S. Kubrick, Spielberg, Tim Burton, J.J. Abrams, Christopher Nolan.W. Ruttmann, Hans Richter, Viking Eggeling and Oskar Fischinger on the experimental side.

For you Cinema is....


One of the greatest art forms because it involves several senses.

Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?


Yes, I do. In B & W movies, tonal variations are caused by the combined action of light, scenography and costumes. Light has the determining functions of forming the grey scale and of separating objects from each other and from the background. On the aesthetic level, however, it gives volume and plasticity to objects, it divides space, marks time (day and night). The lack of colour is balanced by chiaroscuro, soft focus, halos, silhouettes, shadows, oblique rays, reflections, bright backgrounds. The absence of colour does not mean the absence of meaning; on the contrary, it helps to create narrative spaces by differentiating them in the same location or to articulate the psychology of the characters. Are you suggesting me to make a B & W film?

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?


No, but I could think about it….Dreams are meant to be fulfilled and to come true. I must admit that I'm more into experimental videos but I would like to work as a composer and sound designer for several known directors.

Do you think you're gonna win it?

I am not used to discuss topics about the future especially my future. My work is silent, I love silence. Silence itself must be filled to become a form of art.

Did anyone ever tell you weren't good enough?

If you're fortunate, yes.  If you listen, you will learn.  If you can discern between petty sniping and genuine criticism, you can make it past the discouragement that destroys so many creative people and get better.  

How can you stay focused on your goal?

Being obsessed helps.  

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?

Like an unhealthy mental breakdown because of my job?  I work a "real job" to make money to pay for the films I make, so the only "breakdown" is that I don't make enough money to make the films I really want to make, if that's a good answer!

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

Talent is a blessing if someone else tells you that you have it, and it's a curse if you tell everyone you have it and you don't!

What would you like to improve about yourself as an

actor/director/screenplayer?

Getting paid for it.  I don't know what that validation feels like yet.

What's the worst critic you have received?

I was fortunate.  I'd written my first screenplay in college and gave it to a Film Professor who didn't like me.  For 45 minutes, he destroyed my script...and he was right.  At the age of 18, I left his office and thought, "That was the worst beating I've ever had in my life, but I will learn and I will get better and I'll never have another assault like that again."  And I've been right, so far!

If you weren't an actor/director/screenplayer what would you like to be?

There was never a back up plan.

If Cinema was a color what would it be?

Cinema is a kaleidoscope of all of our colors, written, acted, edited, and set to music...as life should be!

A day without a movie is...

Stagnant.  When I was a kid, my whole way of seeing the world could be changed by just going to the movies.  I was part of that generation that saw films like Jaws, Star Wars, Alien and so many others for the first time before all of the sequels and rip offs, so there was nothing like that initial experience and connection with an audience.  Sadly, I don't see that anymore.

If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despice but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?

I'd probably be fired.  I'll take obscurity over self-loathing any day.

What's your greatest ambition?

To make a feature film.

What's your biggest fear?

That I won't care anymore.

Does music helps you to play/direct, write?

Music helps with writing.  It would probably be a distraction while directing.

You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?

The same as a Sound movie: convey a good story.  I'm reminded of the first time I saw the Coen Brothers' film, No Country For Old Men, and the lack of any dialogue in the first sequence.  Just Josh Brolin out hunting by himself when he comes across a field of bodies after a drug deal gone wrong.  I wondered how glorious it would've been to see the entire movie just visually with no dialogue.  It could be done.

Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....

I believe Oscar speeches are primarily to thank everyone who got me there.  Anything I have to say will be in the script or the film.  The only thing that comes to mind is to mention that there are so many people who wanted to see this moment and they're no longer here.  

Who's your biggest fan? What brings you inspiration the most?

I wish I could pick one, but my biggest fans are the children I teach and they are the only reason I have done this movie. My students inspire me to pursue projects like this. I am thankful that I won this award.

Which actor or director would you like to work with?

That’s a great question, but in all honesty I am a people person and i'm at a point in my life where the professionalism is there, but I really want to know the person behind their reputation and working with a great team - no matter the director, no matter the producer, no matter the actor - if the connection is there, the work is priceless and rewarding. I do not want to work with someone where there is no connection and it loses the feeling of fun - you are going to work with these people for a long project, and you want the feeling of fun to be there.

Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?

I would say the books are better because I love how my imagination can create. The vision the directors put together for the screen is a wonderful craft, and I usually enjoy their vision, but reading a book to yourself, you get to be the director and create your own world.

What's the movie that taught you the most?

I’m not sure I have a specific movie that taught me the most, as I find most movies to offer me an adventure out of my routine. I work every day teaching - I’m a workaholic - film allows you an odd sensation of escape like a vacation because now you are transported to a new scene, a new perspective, and even a new personality. What a wonderful way to escape.

About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?

People have to realize that failure is not the end - we have to learn to fall forward and there have been times that I’ve wanted to give up and that things have not gone my way but it's our hardships that forge us into the character we are today.

On set what excites you the most?

The spark of emotion you have to bring to every scene and knowing that it is exactly what they are looking for.

And what scares you the most ?

What scares me the most is letting others down.

What's your next project?

I recently signed a contract with Sony Pictures, but cannot talk about it at this time.

An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....

A hodgepodge of ideas. It takes vision - and although we all have vision very few tend to act on it. When you are blessed with a career to put that vision forward it is a beautiful thing.

For you Cinema is....

Cinema evokes an emotion, guiding force or that we can all learn from.

Life is a ride, and it's important that you enjoy the journey.

Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?

Yes, I think the greyscale forces the audience to fine tune specifically into the actors on screen. Just like our tones of voice, the tone of color forces us to focus and to really absorb more of what the movie is trying to portray.

Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar? Do you think you're gonna win it?

No, I have not dreamed of winning an Oscar. Sadly, I feel there is much more deserving talent than myself for such an auspicious award and many more artists who dedicate themselves full time to the craft.

For you a Film is...

I’ve always liked the description of film as being a waking dream.  It’s someone else’s dream.  Sometimes it’s your dream.    It’s the manifestation of the imagination of an artist.  Like a dream, a film is full of people, places and things all orchestrated to tell a story that gives its viewer a glimpse into other realities.  Even if sometimes it’s nonsensical.  Done right this process can evoke such emotions that you would swear it’s real. It becomes real.  But somehow it’s not.  It’s only flickering lights on a wall.  But it doesn’t matter when it moves you.

Making a film is like being the conductor of a dream and who wouldn’t like to control a dream?

What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?

Expressing my creative ambitions, seeing them though to completion is the greatest feeling in the world.  When I’m working on my films I truly have a sense of fulfillment.  For better or for worse I’m achieving my destiny.   I know this is where I belong because I don’t belong anywhere else.  On the set with my crew is one the few places in my life where I truly feel the happiest.      



You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you 
love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna whatch it?

From the highest budgeted films to the lowest budget back yard film I have found that most filmmakers have the same kind of experiences when making a film.  So for me, I would love to sit down and watch a Spielberg or George Lucas movie with Spielberg or George Lucas.  I would love to get into their heads and hear about their struggles and insecurities in making a film.  It’s hard to make a movie.  Who wouldn’t want be able to turn and say “How the hell did you do that?” or “I know what you went through”.



Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think 
about it?

Nothing is impossible but a lot of things are improbable.  I know it’s the improbable part that turns a lot of people off from following their dreams.   For me this quote is just another way of saying “You never know unless you try”.  In which case I totally agree.   When there is a creative decision to be made, always give the universe the opportunity to reward you.  Chances are it won’t, but you can’t win if you don’t play. I think that’s the secret to life in general.   



Can you live just of your passion?

To me this question is asking if I am content just making great art.  Or perhaps I want something more, like the usual desire for fame and fortune.  I would probably tell you yes. I would even like to think this is true.  But maybe it isn’t.  I’ve been a starving artist my entire life struggling to make my projects a reality.  I’m not the insecure, unsure self-doubting artist type.  I’ve already been through that, a long time ago.   I already know I’m good at what I do.  So perhaps that’s not enough anymore.   So maybe I do feel as though it’s my time for a little recognition and validation.  Which is starting to happen I am very happy to report.  Thanks to film festivals like the London Movie Awards my films have won several awards in recent seasons and elevated my credibility.  This I am very thankful for.



What's more important talent or luck?

Whichever one leads to your success!  The truth is both talent and luck are the two sides on the coin of movie success.  Talent and luck are not myths they both exist, especially in the entertainment industry.  I’m guessing most truly successful people have a little of both.   What we are really talking about here is self-realization vs. pre determination. As artists we would like to think talent transcends the construct of fate.  The reality is we all know too many talented starving artists that die that way.  Al they needed was that one break, a little bit of luck.  So maybe you need both.  As a life long underdog I would like to think a man’s ambitions CAN change the constructs of the universe, even if it’s not true.        



You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...

Most of the people on my film crew are my old childhood friends.  I also deliberately feature friends, family and loved ones in my films, something akin to a cinematic time capsule.  Stranded on a desert Island I would want to see my friends and loved ones the most so watching one of my own films would be my only way to stay close to them.   Well, that, or an erotic film lol. 

Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even 
if you didn't like the project?

Oh yes.  Especially in my younger days when I had to make ends meet. Sometimes a gig is a gig.  I always deliver my absolute best regardless of the project that was never an issue for me.  More often than not I found that that these kinds of projects might have started off cringe worthy but the enthusiasm of the client ends up inspiring me to help them realize their vision.  Just a few years ago I directed a project for a friend.  I wasn’t so thrilled about the movie idea.  But she was excited so I wanted to help her.  Ironically the film ended up winning some awards and I was even granted an honorary doctorate in film.  So here we are again full circle.  Maybe anything is possible if you give the universe a chance.   

What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?

Following a show a few years ago I was approached by a teenage kid named Niko Aue who was so inspired by my work that he asked me to teach him everything I know about filmmaking.   I blew him off, I essentially told him to come back in a few years when he was old enough to intern at the company.  Sure enough a few years later he re enters the scene and as it turns out he is one of the smartest and most talented young men that I have ever met.  So I took him on as a protégé and I’m expecting him to become a great filmmaker in his own right someday.  I couldn’t think of a better compliment than someone believing in me enough that they would ask me to teach them what I know.  

 

Are you satisfied about your career?

I am absolutely satisfied about my career and I wouldn’t change it for anything.  I’m very proud of my body of work. I’m so honored to get to make movies on any level.   Although like most artists I always strive to go bigger and better.  I thrive on pushing my limits and I’m not satisfied with the status quo.  As long as I’m progressing my art form I will be fulfilled. 



Do you have a good luck charm?

I’m more of a muse kind of a guy.  Mostly because I’ve never had any good luck, I’ve had to make my own luck.  But one must be careful with Muses.  They can take different forms.  Sometimes one might be inspired by beauty and love.  Other times it can take the more nefarious form of revenge, pride, injustice or the need to conquer.  I have experienced them all.   



Which is the worst moment on set ?

As an action movie director my worst moment would be if an actor or crew membered got injured on the set.  I have been fortunate enough that in all my years making movies nobody has been seriously injured on my projects beyond the usual scrapes and bruises.  But there have been close calls and that’s the worst.  A movie is supposed to be make-believe.  It’s supposed to be fun and nobody should be getting hurt.  Safety should always be the top priority.  If an accident isn’t every director’s absolute worst fear, it should be.     



How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending?

I’m about the journey not the destination.  I’ve always enjoyed the production part of filmmaking more than showing the film.  A lot of times once the production of the film is finished I’m finished.  After spending years working on a film I’m relieved to have it finished.  The nostalgia part can come later.  There’s always the chance that a film doesn’t get finished for one reason or another.  This thought terrifies me.  So I never really get any sleep until the final cut is in the can.     



Have you ever lied to get a part/job?

No, I’ve never lied to get a job however I have been lied to or tricked into taking certain jobs.  It usually ended with me creating a masterpiece out of nothing for a very convincing client and then of course not getting paid.  Some of these producers can be very tricky. They have been perfecting the hustle for a long time.   It’s just part of the experience though.  I think getting ripped off happens to most people at some point when they are young and just getting started in the industry.  Hopefully it ends as a great learning experience and doesn’t destroy you.  I’ve never seen “survival of the fittest” more true than in the entertainment industry.   



If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to…

Without thought I would thank my parents Larry and Wilda Storm and my beautiful wife Jamie for their endless support.  I’ve suffered much to achieve my dreams but at least they were my dreams.  My family has suffered along with me every step of the way for my sake and made many sacrifices to help me on my journey.  At the end of the day all of my awards, my certifications and honors, this is for them.  I just want my family to know that all the work and the sacrifice wasn’t in vein, it was for a higher purpose.  I’m fore filling my destiny.  

How can you stay focused on your goal?

Being present.

Have you ever had a breakdown because of your Job?

Certainly, there were stressful moments, but not to the point of breakdown. 

Talent is a blessing or a curse?

It is a blessing if we use talent wisely.

What would you like to improve about yourself as a composer?

As a composer/artist, I want to keep exploring newer ways to express myself while retaining the substance and integrity of what I try to create.

What's the worst critic you have received?

"You are too old to do this."

If you weren't a composer what would you like to be?

I am a composer/artist/animator. However, whatever my main area of interest is, I am willing to move to another path for creativity if one path is no longer viable. 

If Cinema was a color what would it be?

All spectrum of colors.

A day without a movie is...

A day for other exploration.

If someone offered you to play/direct/write in/a movie that you despice but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job?

Finding a creative solution to adopt/adapt, but if that approach is impossible, then gently decline.

What's your greatest ambition?

Being able to create something truly masterful. 

What's your biggest fear?

Any fear is related to death, I believe. 

Does music helps you to play/ write?

Yes.

You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience?

Depending on the subject/topic I choose.

Share your speech if you should win an Oscar…..

Not very likely. But, I will say, “I am grateful for this moment."

For you a Film is...

For me a film is yet another way to deconstruct and reconstruct the world/reality and end up somewhere else, in an alternative universe. In animation film the realm of what you can offer is enormous, as – per definition – imagination is limitless...

What do you feel when you're acting/directing/writing?

When – as a director for film, animation film or theatre – you direct yourself and the possible crew towards a common artistic goal, you might get a strong feeling of control, not only of your own thoughts and ambitions, but also of those of the people participating in that process. Which can be quite hazardous. As a spectator, you don't need to be aware of this, as long as the result is attractive.

You can go to the Movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you love. What kind of movie do you choose and with who you're gonna whatch it?

She doesn't know, but the Belgian actrice Nathali Broods would be my pick. And any film would do, haha. She hasn't seen my “Man in a Can”yet, so I might ask her to join me one evening. Otherwise, “Le otto montagne” would be a nice alternative.

Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it?

I don't know in what circumstances Hepburn said the words, but I think she was right in many ways. When you believe in the sovereign mind, then it's rather easy to believe that your own mind is able to condition your life. And then, everything becomes possible.

Can you live just of your passion?

Live of your passion. A wet dream... I think I try to, but still, animation film is not my only passion. As a painter, I sometimes imagine people would like my works that much, that I could be living of it. The same goes for my life as a singer. You just imagine doing that fantastic job all year round, right, getting the 'oohs' and 'aahs' and 'wows' of that excited public...

What's more important talent or luck?

 Both talent and luck are very important. Unfortunately, the talented are not always successful, for many reasons; they were not lucky at the right moment, maybe they didn't really care about that luck that's leading to... to what?

You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie...

A deserted island... If I got there like Hanks did after his flight crash, then it would probably be hard to find an electricity socket. But, anyway, let's image one, and a screen, all of a sudden, on that wheatish white sand beach. What film? “Cast Away”? It would certainly give me some hope, when I'm all alone on that island after a crash. “The English Patient” would do, too. The theme of that film is just so great (struggle between personal and public fate).

Have you ever accepted a part/ a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn't like the project?

As my professional path hitherto (as director) was basically 'indie', I've never really been in a situation where I had to accept something I really didn't like. Luck. As a singer, that's a little bit different. You basically accept offers for concerts that program the kind of repertoire you're good in.

What's the best compliment you have received about your Job?

The best compliment I've ever received? “Where does this (imagination) come from? Please, enlighten me!”

Are you satisfied about your career?

I've lived a few different (artistic) lives until now (theatre critic, playwright, theatre director, painter, singer...). I guess I've always liked diversity and change. Maybe, I easily get bored. Anyway, animation film offered me the occasion to combine everything I've been active with in my artistic life. Reason to be happy? I guess so.

Do you have a good luck charm?

My good luck charm... A fetish? There's nothing hanging around my neck, but a good pencil with that freshly sharpened point...?

Which is the worst moment on set ? 

My worst moment on set. Years ago, I directed “The Shipwreck” (Wagenaar) for chorus and solo singers. All of a sudden, during the rehearsal, I lost control... I remember wondering what I was doing at that place with all those people waiting for a guideline, which would never come (that day). I started stumbling over my words. I even started limping, as – I think – I had twisted my ankle minutes earlier, which made the image of a disfunctional director even more clear...

How do you feel when a job you've been part of it's ending? 

When things have worked out well, then “partir, c'est mourir un peu”, definitely! You start missing people you have worked/performed with intensively. But there's always an aftermath, the play is performed again, the animation film is being looked at all over the world (haha)...! “Partir, that's starting all over again”, no?

Have you ever lied to get a part/job?

How many times a day do we lie, averagely? Didn't I read somewhere we do it 33 times a day? In any case, accepting a job, I try to live up to the expectations (and I expect the same when working with other people, when I need to rely on them). I hope this doesn't sound like a good lie...

If you should win an Oscar your first taught would go to…

Making an animation film with just a few people is quite an exhausting job, really. During the long hours of intense labour, thoughts often wander to the ones you can't see or visit, just because labour stands inbetween. Therefore, winning such an award would bring my thoughts to them immediately, oh yes.

For you a Film is....

Life, story telling is the oldest most powerful thing we have.  It’s what connects us throughout the thread of history.

What do you feel when you’re acting/ directing/ writing?

Connected to something bigger than myself.  Alive, firing on all cylinders, completely immersed.  Emotions are front and center-inspired, humbled, ambitious.

You can go to the movies with an actor/director/screenplayer that you love.  What kind of movie do you choose and with who you’re gonna watch it?  

I would probably go with either Steven Spielberg or Quentin Tarantino,  unless Hitchcock was alive, maybe him or John Ford.  I really like John Ford because of his expressionistic style, that resonates with me.

Movies to watch, uh, hard to pick just one so …  I like movies with strong protagonists that overcome things.  Dark humor.  Something that hits me in the gut or inspires me.  Slightly biographical with great writing and emotion.

Audrey Hepburn used to say “Nothing is Impossible”, what do you think about it? 

I agree however I think you need the mindset formula for that.  Demons have to be dispelled, at least for me to get out of my own way.  Humility.  Connection.  I could never have done this film without my co star Josh Berresford-he was fantastic to work with and made the experience so much better on every level.  We came out of the whole thing as great friends which has been an incredible gift that I never expected.  Also the crew.  I have immense respect and love for film crews, the DP, AC, Sound, editors, set builders, makeup, hair, wardrobe, show runners the whole sha bang.  I love them all, and always feel comforted having a great team around me.   My sound guy Zach Travis was truly a stress reliever on set!  My DP Toru Nishikubo got such great shots and was so supportive.  My editor Steve Boghossian was incredibly gracious and attentive as was sound editor Jack Straton who really lined up the music perfectly-he executed my vision even when I wasn’t sure if it could be done.  Dave Pultz, worked very hard with me on the color grading which really impacted the subconscious elements of the story-can’t thank him enough either.  Mikako lshii was a wonderful AC as well on set.  So yes nothing is impossible but stay humble, open minded, positive and connected to others who support you with whatever you’re doing.  Collaboration is key.  Then nothing is impossible and oh yes, I believe God has a lot to do with that at least for me, however I’m not trying to put that agenda on anyone.

Can you live just of your passion?  

I think I try to live in passion-meaning can I find the passion in everything I am doing-I currently juggle multiple careers.  I think being of service has become my passion.  After that it’s just about the vehicle in which I can be of most service at any moment in time.

What’s more important talent of luck?  

Both.  I think luck is incredibly important and very integral to one’s success.  I also believe our mindset and thinking creates that luck-thus, working thru blocks, demons etc is incredibly important.  That said there should be talent that is developed when that lucky opportunity comes or it could all fall apart.  But if the talent is there, the field is mined, then when the luck comes it’s….magic.

You must go to a desert island but you can bring with you just one movie…

My answer is probably terrible, but I’d much rather bring a camera of sorts and create movies.  Be with the gorillas and make docs or something.  Keep my mind busy.  I can’t imagine being on a desert island and just watching the same film over and over.  I love too many films and directors.

Have you ever accepted a part/a movie to direct/ a script to write even if you didn’t like the project?  

Sure.  For experience.  Never a bad idea to experience something you’re not fond of.  It creates the compass for what you truly love and are passionate about.  Always good.

What’s the best compliment you have received about your Job?   

A few people said they were honored to be a part of this project which felt really special.  That meant a lot.    I have to say though, my costar Josh Berresford has been one of the most supportive complimentary people. for me during this process!    He is truthful and gives insightful critiques while reminding me of the good work I’ve been doing.  I got very lucky with him as he has become a collaborator and business partner visionary.  

Are you satisfied about your career? 

No.  And I don’t know if I ever will be.  I’m a recovering perfectionist with things.  I’ve accepted life on life’s terms however I still have that thing in me which makes it very hard for me to be satisfied with the work which I don’t think is a bad thing.  It keeps me striving.  I just finished the first draft of the first episode of a series I’m working on and I am prepared for the way I will start scrutinizing the work during the editing process.  All good though.  I think it helps motivate me. 

Do you have a good luck charm?  

No, I think I have faith and I really try to open myself up to be led, guided by something much greater than myself.  That connection is everything.  Although I can be a bit superstitious and see the symbolism in things so that affects me as well, in a more incidental way.

Which is the worst moment on set? 

I won’t say where or when but I made a joke once and the next thing I knew I was in this dark room just waiting by myself to go on set.  Everyone else was on set and I just stayed there in the dark, waiting and waiting.  That wasn’t so great.  Haven’t made a bad joke in public since-learned that lesson!

How do you feel when a job you’ve been part of is ending? 

I’m thinking about one show I was on, just on a basic level but I was there every week, for a few days a week for many months.  When it ended I was very sad.  It felt like a family, a wonderful connected community and yeah-I was sad.

Have you ever lied to get a part/job?  

I want to say yes because I think that would be so “Hollywood” you know funny, interesting.  I can’t think of anything at the moment-maybe?  Or maybe I haven’t worked enough?

If you should win an Oscar your first thought would go to… 

God…maybe the thought of wow this actually happened, finally happened?  and appreciation for staying the course regardless of the challenges.

Who's your biggest fan? 

When I was talking acting classes, my acting teachers were my biggest fan. They all thought I had so much talent. Other than that; my agents now and the nice film festivals that have supported my film.



What brings you inspiration the most?

Art in any form, including all aspects of film and architecture, design etc. Also, when I play and create music. When people tell inspiring stories about overcoming struggles. Also, traveling.



Which actor or director would you like to work with?

Wow, I would be happy to work in general doing what I love; so, working with any great actor or director would be a huge honor. I am a fan of all great actors and directors. 



Have you ever seen a film that was better than the book?

I haven’t read as many books as I would have liked, so I would say I can’t answer that honestly, but I will say Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy was fantastic.



What's the movie that taught you the most? 

I will choose ones that I saw as a child that influenced me in life. Star Wars IV, V, VI.



About your artistic career, have you ever had the desire to quit everything?

Yes. Too many times to count. I had so many roadblocks and had to keep changing course to stay afloat. I took me decades to get to a place that some have gotten to a few years out of college and many of those people are at an Executive level now.


On set what excites you the most?

Just being on set. I love it!



And what scares you the most?

Nothing scares me about being on set.



What's your next project?

Making my short film into a feature and pitching a true crime scripted project and editing a comedy short I made.



You can steal the career of an artist you really admire, who do you choose?

Well, I wouldn’t because that is theirs. I can’t pick one artist because I admire so many, but if I am talking about filmmaking; anyone who has had great success as a writer, director, actor, producer for film and tv. 


An actor/director/screenplayer is made of....

Talent , creativity, vision, discipline and determination.



For you Cinema is....

A way to tell stories and impact audiences with a creative moving art piece.



Do you think Black and white movies have a powerful impact?

I love black and white movies. Yes of course. Think of all great black and white old classic films that have remained timeless or Schindler’s List and so many others.



Have you ever dreamed of winning an Oscar?

When I was younger and pursuing acting I did; but since then, for decades, I have had to think about working. I still have an acting agent now, but I haven’t thought about it. 


Do you think you're gonna win it? 

If I was ever nominated or if this ever happened, it would be a great blessing.

Which is the best Moment on set?

I work exclusively with music videos. Most people have no idea of the amount of work it takes to produce three minutes of music and video. So when the first shots are taken it is usually the culmination of a lot of heavy lifting. For instance a new video "Watershed" is coming out mid- September. That project was written over two years ago. I had originally scouted locations in Canada. Then due to the pandemic we were unable to cross the border. Consequently, William Murray filmed the broken soldier (David Swift) in Philadelphia and Shaun Ryan Savard filmed our character Hope (Malia) south of Ottawa. Since I could not be there I sent each a detailed shooting script and then stitched it together. Due to the Covid road blocks the moment cameras started recording was for me the best moment, high-fives all around.

How can you stay focused on your goal? 

It can be difficult. Most in this business must live a double life. A mentor once told me: Show up everyday and do what you say you are going to do. I try live by that. I am also fortunate to have a home studio and a family supportive of my projects.

Talent is a blessing or a curse? 

Talent can be a two-edged sword.

The world has an abundance of gifted, promising educated artists who can never consistently utilize their gifts because they are hindered by circumstance or location. I imagine it is a curse.

It is a blessing for those who can use their expertise. That is a source of great happiness. It is wealth to those who see it as a part of their destiny. My skills are quite limited but I feel a sense of obligation to those who have helped nurture those abilities. I have a debt to those whose tools I have inherited.

What would you like to improve about yourself as a writer? 

I have a tendency to want to control everything. I need to lighten up.

If you weren't a director or writer what would you like to be? 

I come from an extended family of educators so that would be the best fit.

If Cinema was a color what would it be? 

Gray. It is a serious, sophisticated color that can sometimes be neutral, sometimes mysterious.

A day without a movie is... 

not going to happen. Or possibly a day when the internet is down.

If someone offered you to play/direct/write a movie that you despise but that for sure will make you rich and famous...would you accept the job? 

I doubt it. Money has never been a motivator for me. I was raised to recognize how much was enough. And when there is more than enough use that to help others. Look back two hundred years in my genealogy you will find Quakers living in Ohio. Perhaps that is where it comes from

What's your greatest ambition? 

In an era of endless online content my simple ambition is to create material that will be seen or heard. I only seek out film festivals where screenings are offered which is why it was special to have our music video "Losing Track of Kimberly" shown at London Movie Awards. The ultimate ambition is to create a work with lasting effect.

What's your biggest fear? 

That none of this will happen.

Does music help you to direct? 

I work exclusively on music videos. When writing music I am aware which song may become a video. This gives direction to the lyrics.There must be imagery that will easily render itself into a scene so that the viewer can visualize what the lyrics are saying. I have at times made notes on script ideas as I am composing.

You have the chance to make a Silent movie, what's your message to the audience? 

That is a great question. Give and it will be given to you. It must be that Quaker thing again.

Share your speech if you should win an Oscar.....

Well, if they gave awards for music videos it might end something like: "And finally I'd like to thank the jury at London Film Awards for the confidence they have placed in my work". 

How can people find you?

You can find him at: http://www.davidarn.com/ https://www.facebook.com/DavidArnMusic