This week we’re doing a bit of travelling on BEHIND THE LENS as we journey to BELFAST with editor UNA NI DHONGHAILE and then on to SPAGHETTI JUNCTION with writer/director KIRBY McCLURE.
First up, take a listen to our exclusive interview with UNA NI DHONGHAILE, editor of what I believe is the Best Picture of the Year – BELFAST, as she talks about the editing process, working with Kenneth Branagh, adjusting film speed to create tableau effects, laying in the basic sound edit along with the visual edit, and more. Una’s unbridled enthusiasm and passion for this film are beyond infectious. Her attention to detail and her collaborative process with “fellow magpie” Branagh is evident in the final product. BELFAST soars and Una’s work is just one of the reasons.
And then, we welcome writer/director KIRBY McCLURE who talks about his new film SPAGHETTI JUNCTION. The story of a disabled teenager in America’s deep south who encounters a “traveler” from the stars, this indie gem sparkles with originality, emotion, some beautiful visual effects, and a breakout performance by amputee Triathlon runner Cate Hughes. It’s no holds barred as Kirby talks about the genesis of the film and his influences, crafting a script and visuals that blur the lines of reality, dreams, and maybe even toss in a bit of the sci-fi supernatural. Beautiful in its look with an observational style, Kirby goes in-depth about the Spaghetti Junction area of Georgia and working with DP Kristian Zuniga in designing visuals that embrace the natural elements of the region to create this cinematic world with everything from the suburban homes and neighborhoods to long-shuttered strip malls and industrial areas to sumptuous magnolia blossoms. Listen as Kirby talks about the challenges of casting, particularly with this desire to cast an amputee vs able-bodied actor with post-production erasure of a limb, as the film’s lead “August”. His search paid off as Cate Hughes dazzles in this first acting role.
