What a fun – and female filmmaker-friendly – week on BEHIND THE LENS thanks to the return of two wonderful filmmakers talking about their latest projects – JENNA ST. JOHN and ANNA ELIZABETH JAMES.
First up is my exclusive interview with the fabulously talented screenwriter, JENNA ST. JOHN talking about her latest project, the fun-filled family film STINKY SUMMER. Regular listeners and readers will remember Jenna from her prior live appearances and call-ins to #BTLRadioShow and will recognize that this new film is a far cry from some of her prior works like “Sexpectations” and “Dinner with the Alchemist” (both in which she also stars). STINKY SUMMER is at the opposite end of the spectrum in terms of audience and plot, but still built on Jenna’s skill for developing story and fully textured characters. What can possibly happen when you’ve got a skunk, a camp full of girls, and some international spies on your tail? Answer: a whole lotta laughter and Jenna dives into it all in this conversation.
STINKY SUMMER is now available on VOD.
And then writer/director ANNA ELIZABETH JAMES is live talking about her latest movie for Lifetime Television, HELD HOSTAGE IN MY HOUSE. Solid story, interesting construct with the psychological thriller that unfolds, excellent casting, some returning cast and production team from Anna’s prior films all make for an interesting and engaging tale. Listen as Anna discusses the idea for the film, creating characters and then casting so that the characters feel real but also are cohesive within the structure of the film. And talk about perfect casting – Amy Smart and Harrison Fox as mother and son, the heartbeat of the film and driving force of the story, are phenomenal with undeniable and authentic chemistry. Reteaming with her “Deadly Illusions” cinematographer Mike McMillin, Anna talks about the importance and the magic of lighting, especially as it speaks to the passage of time while showcasing character building pieces of set dress. Also reteaming with Anna is editor RJ Daniel Hanna with Shane Hazen also joining in the cutting room. Not only is pacing important to the unfolding of this story, but the shots that are used so as not to convey any “spoilers” or reveals too early. And Anna has her own thoughts on cinema and its purpose today as well as the appeal of psychological thrillers.
HELD HOSTAGE IN MY HOUSE is now streaming on MyLifetime.com and airing on Lifetime TV.
