Ok PJ! My first question is how did you get started in film?
My co-producer Steve Hudgins dragged me into this crazy business! I have a background in fiction writing and an MFA (Master of Fine Arts) in fiction writing, with a number of mostly minor publications under my belt. As an East Coast native, I didn’t really consider screenwriting at the time I was going to school. But my experience and education provided the background I needed when Steve approached me to take on a film project. I had skills in theatre, writing, acting, directing (stage) and even video editing in a former job. I feel strongest in the writing and directing aspects, though the technical has taken a bit longer for me to learn. I enjoy acting, and I think because I understand it, I know how to motivate those on set when I am the director.
What is your most memorable film experience?
I don’t know if I have a good answer for that. I enjoy acting because I get to explore the inner self, the dark and the vulnerable, and I think this is particularly true of acting in horror movies. As a director, I love making good scenes happen. At my age and with my various experiences, I feel perfectly comfortable taking charge and telling people what I expect. However, I also think it’s important to listen to what others on set have to contribute. One thing I value tremendously in filmmaking is the collaborative nature of it.
Third question is who would you like to work with on future projects ?
Gosh — you ask hard questions! I suppose I would enjoy working with someone who could teach me more about the craft. Joe Estevez was such a joy to work with, and made everyone on set feel valued, and I think a lot of filmmakers don’t realize how important that is.
I met Amanda Bearse a few years ago at a convention, and I would LOVE to work with her. I hear she’s mostly producing now.
And Robert Downey, Jr. Can you get in touch with him for me?
What can we expect to see from you? What are your goals as a filmmaker?
My goals are Big Biting Pig goals — we would like to continue making films, and see our national audience grow. I currently hold a day job to support the filmmaking, and I’d love to be able to make a full-time jump to writing and/or directing. The jobs I’ve done with my sister company, PJ’s Productions, keep me busy, and I’ve gained a lot of skills. But I don’t get a chance to put those skills to use as much as I’d like to.
Anyone looking for a female director?
If you’re interested in our films, please become a backer for our upcoming project, FRANCES STEIN, written and directed by me! It’s a modern-day female mad scientist story that’s expected to premiere in the fall of 2015!
Big Biting Pig has a website, fb page, and Twitter account.
https://bigbitingpigproductions.com/
https://www.facebook.com/bigbitingpigproductions
https://twitter.com/BigBitingPig @bigbitingpig
PJ’s Productions has a website, fb page, and Twitter account
https://www.pjsproductions.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/PJs-Productions/103499594872
https://twitter.com/PJs_Productions
“this old bitch makes horror flicks” is my blog, and I also have a Tumblr as “this old bitch”
https://thisoldbitchmakeshorrorflicks.wordpress.com/
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/thisoldbitch
