A Hectic Films Interview with Jason Mitchell (2017)

Jason Mitchell is a busy man, that’s why I had to slip into the recording studio at Epixx Media Group and lock him in an audio booth to hit him with five quick-fire questions about his involvement with Hectic Films newest short film Descensus.

The others left the room and Jason made his way into the booth to set up equipment, I knew opportunity was presenting itself so I slapped at the lock on the door and as he spun around to see what was happening I smashed the intercom button and said, “Looks like you have time for an interview now.”

His eyes narrowed and my leg started to tremble in fear so I reached deep and found the courage needed to drag a chair towards me. I sat down and tried to relax as he fogged up the glass between us in a quiet rage.

I grinned knowing he wouldn’t destroy his own studio just to get at me and asked through the intercom, “As a Director, what are the top three things you always like to do before a production starts filming?”

He did the unthinkable at that moment and grinned back as he replied, “I really like to go through the script and dissect it thoroughly, to give myself a practical aspect of how to approach bringing everything together. Secondly I get a list of people together that I would need to bring the project full circle, and lastly, I think about what type of equipment I want to use to achieve the look I have in mind.”

Feeling like things might actually work out here I pushed ahead with the second question and asked, “How did you get started in filmmaking?”

Jason turned the handle on the door of the audio booth and I watched in horror as it opened. Apparently, the lock didn’t work at all. Jason was a professional though and answered, “I actually started with music videos. It was a good place to start because there is so much involved with making music videos that the experiences helped me to more easily make the jump into filmmaking. Also shooting weddings helped me because you are a one man band when shooting weddings, it’s a ‘run and gun’ mentality, you have to do everything from audio to film to edit on the fly. Shooting weddings really can help to polish your skills.”

Jason was still grinning as he walked over to the studio door and twisted the lock. I actually heard it click home and jumped up from the chair. Whatever filmmaking questions I had thought of ahead of time completely vanished and in a panic, I blurted out, “Is the book always better than the movie?”

Jason turned towards me then, a new sparkle in his eye. The grin even wider as he replied, “For me, the movies are always better because I know all the time, effort, and technology that goes into making them. Books are deeper and more forgiving in the fact that you can imagine what you are reading with infinite possibilities but when shooting a film there are so many elements that come into play to create a single vision it just isn't fair to compare them.”

I didn’t realize I was backing away until I slammed against the wall and a picture fell to the floor, glass shattering from the frame. I glanced down and noticed it was a family picture. “Oh, God no.” I whispered. Jason was slowly walking towards me now and I tried to distract him with another question, “You cut your Hectic Films teeth on Descensus, but you are not a first timer, where else can we see your work?”

He pushed the chair I was sitting on earlier out of the way and replied, “Actually surprising enough, Descensus is one of the first short films I have done. It was really a great experience for me. I got to test myself in different facets of filmmaking. I am looking forward to directing, shooting, and editing many more shorts and hopefully work my way into feature films in the near future.”

He stood before me now, close to the same height but seemingly looking down from high above as I tried to cower away but had nowhere left to go. I tried a smile and asked, “Skittles or Gummy Bears?”

He grabbed a loose cord from the table and started wrapping both ends around his fists as he smiled and answered, “Red Vines.”

A Hectic Films Interview with Darin Juarez (2017)

Sometimes fate has a way of bringing two people together. That is exactly what I told the cops when I was recently arrested for allegedly “kidnapping” one of the actors from Hectic Films upcoming short Descensus. In reality, all I did was stalk him to a local warehouse outlet store and corner him behind the produce section so I could throw some fast paced questions at him and hold a banana towards his face.

He was a little startled and had that wide-eyed look of appreciation in his eyes when I first shoved him back against the tomato bin and fired off the first question, “Sometimes film sets can be a little intimidating for cast and crew on the first day. You have an uncanny ability to break right through that awkwardness and make everyone feel at home. Is this part of being an actor or just the natural way of Darin Juarez?”

Naturally, my charming good looks and smooth way with people set his mind at ease once he realized I just wanted to ask about his acting and he replied by screaming, “Help!”

Realizing that this was going to be a short interview I repeated the question as security swarmed down on me. Once I was handcuffed Darin answered, “I gotta say, thanks for those kind words. I had no idea that was happening. I know how stressful being on set is for everybody so, I guess I just try to keep that in mind and be nice. Plus, if there's one thing I hate it's that barrier between us all when we first meet! I make a pretty strong effort to be open and obliterate that mama jamma!”

I asked if that meant I could be freed and he shot a look towards the security guards and shook his head back and forth real quick.

Security was already talking into their shoulder microphones and asking for police to be called so I blurted out the most important question I had, “If a fan wanted to buy you a present, should they go with a snow globe or stuffed animal?”

Darin’s eyes darted to the snow globe that was embedded in the front of my pants and I gyrated my hips a little to make the snow swirl for him. “Stuffed animal!” he answered.

I tried to hide my disappointment as a tear came to my eye, and swallowed my hope as I said, “It’s clear you can act, but I heard you also like to write. Any writer credits in the works that we should keep an eye out for?”

As the sound of loud police radios came from the front of the store, Darin answered, “I've got a sci-fi about a fighter pilot being recruited for a top secret project to fuse his consciousness with a combat A.I., two series pilots about musicians coming up from nothing--one about a metal-head, the other about rappers. Then there's some sketches, a scene about a spy couple, and that YouTube series I was writing called The Death of William Draper.”

As the police arrived, they changed out my handcuffs I guess so security could keep theirs and asked me if I had any identification. I ignored them and asked Darin, “How would you describe acting if you could only use two words?” I think the cops said something but I only had ears for Darin and waited for him to reply. Finally, he shook his head and grinned, “Damn... I thought this was going to be an easy test. I am to consolidate the whole of what acting means to me, has been to me and where I hope it will continue to lead me, into two magnificent words? Okay. ‘Soul Threshing’.”

I may have gotten a little dreamy eyed at that and as the police dragged me away, I yelled out one last question, “Where can people go to find out more about Darin Juarez?”

Even the cops stopped dragging me at that point and turned to wait for an answer. Darin said, “If you really want more... I'm on:
Instagram @darinjuarez

Facebook @Darin S. Juarez

Snapchat @quincy_sauce

Twitter @laced_human

I'm only ever on Instagram and Facebook though...I can't lie about it. Also, there's my website!!”

https://spideruberjew.wixsite.com/darinjuarez

Descensus Is Under Way!

Principle photography is underway on Hectic Films newest production, Descensus! This dramatic little Indie Film based on a poem by Terry McGhee will star Rickey Bird Jr. as Cole Weir, the normal everyday suburban husband who begins his day in mundane normalcy but who quickly stumbles onto the path less traveled and always feared.

With Jason Mitchell and Rickey Bird Jr. both handling the reins of the Directors chair and Justin Cummings donning the Director of Photography hat, you can expect a thrilling spiral down into the depths of the darkest parts of our hearts, where shadows dance, and regrets are only a step behind.

Joining and often times helping Cole along on his journey is an all star supporting cast of both old and new Hectic Films alumni. From the always impressive and towering on screen presence of DT Carny, the always welcoming personalities of Jason Sanders and Ernesto Gomez, to the new and beautiful April Marion King, Descensus is sure to set both your heart and your mind on heightened alert.

Check back often as we hope to bring you a more in depth look into the crew and production of Descensus as it unfolds.

Descensus Begins!

Hectic Films has begun script break down and casting on an upcoming short film project titled "Descensus" which will take us on a journey to find just how far a man can fall in a single day. 

The Bakersfield Clown (Breaking News)

The Bakersfield Police Department has confirmed that one person was killed Monday night in Bakersfield, California. The murder was unknowingly broadcast live by local radio station KNZR. While neither the DJ (Tony Lee) nor his station manager (Jason Sanders) were available for comment, KNZR released a statement that read, “We are all shocked and surprised by this unfortunate event and are doing everything we can to cooperate with the investigation. We apologize to our listeners as well as the community and our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the victim.”

Bakersfield Police Detectives turned down a request for an interview stating that it was an ongoing investigation at this time.

We do know however that the victim was apparently stabbed. Authorities know who the victim is but are waiting to release it, pending notification of loved ones, we do know that no arrests have been made and that the search is on for at least one male suspect. There are no descriptive details at this time.

Please continue to check back for updates.

UPDATE:

Detective Jesse Najera with the Bakersfield Police Department has released more details about the murder that took place late last night. The victim has been identified as local Bakersfield resident Erica Rey who was twenty-something years young at the time of her death. Erica worked with kids and had made it her goal to reach out to organizations such as Make a Wish to fulfill her lifelong dream of making children smile.

A description of the murderer has also been released. Police believe he is a white male, in his late twenties, five foot nine inches tall, with a dadbod physique, with unknown colored facial hair, and possibly wearing grease paint to hide his features. The local community has dubbed him, “The Bakersfield Clown” after audio of his call to local talk radio station KNZR was leaked to media earlier. 

To see the video without having the sides cut off (What the heck blogger?) click the link found here: The Bakersfield Clown






Please don't call the real cops, this post is just a fictional introduction to our latest short film from Hectic Films. No people were harmed in the making of this film, we pinky promise. 

Chelsea Newman Interview (2016)

Chelsea Newman̤ has a long list of film and TV credits including "My Dad's Tapes" (2011), "Bad Behavior" (2013), "Red Light Diaries" (TV 2014) and the IMDB list is growing. Which film or television role are you most proud of? 

I take each role very seriously and each character is quite different so it is hard to say which one I'm most proud of. I did work on a movie called “At Long Last” where I portrayed a young woman that was stuck in her ways. It was really a treat to dive right in. Some people know a huge inspiration for me is Juliette Lewis. I really enjoy her work, especially the work in her younger years. I love her in “Kalifornia” and “The Other Sister.” Roles like the ones she had in those movies are ones I aspire to portray. 

You have a contributing writing credit for "At Long Last" (2015). Any plans to get more involved behind the camera? Do you have an interest in directing?

I appreciate all aspects of creating but I really love playing pretend and that is the sandbox I belong in. 

Making your mark on the film scene as a respected female actor can be a challenging journey. In this regard, can you share with us any obstacles you have faced, and what advice you would give your younger self and/or aspiring actresses/filmmakers?

To be honest, I believe my biggest obstacle I have faced would be myself. Actors constantly hear “no” and as a person, it’s easy to self-doubt and break down. As cliche as this sounds, I would tell people that it is really important to believe in yourself, no matter how hard it can be. If you have a passion, whatever it may be, go for it. You only live once.

Your Facebook cover photo is a still of Barry Corbin and yourself from a clip of you two, performing in a scene. What can you tell us about acting with him?

Barry is such a doll and a delight to work with. I admire his respect and passion for the craft. It was easy to forget we were in a scene together even before the camera started rolling.

"A FAMILIAR SPIRIT" was your first time on a Hectic Films Productions movie. 

How was your experience with the cast, crew, and the director Rickey Bird?

Amazing! No joke, it was such an exciting film set to be on. Everyone was super welcoming and extremely professional. Rickey is just one of the coolest guys. It was so easy to be in front of the camera with him on the other side. I really enjoyed his opinions and appreciated all his hard work.

In the Hectic Films movie AFS, there is a scene, where you collapse in fear. As a viewer, we feel the breathlessness of terror. What can you tell us about your character and what was your motivation for your look of fear?

I was scared! There was some crazy monster coming for me. What else would I possibly feel? I had to survive!

Your character, Cynthia, feels terrified, saddened and angry throughout the movie. If you were in the same situation as your character, trapped in a haunted house, how would you react? Would you take action against whatever you thought was there?

I’d like to think I’d be a hero but honestly, if there is some crazy demon man after me, I’m going to run like hell.

Do you have any personal experiences with ghosts or spirits yourself? How would you describe your beliefs on that subject?

I don't have any personal experience with ghosts or spirits but I’d like to believe there is something else out there.

On your social media pages, there are images of you with children in Sierra Leone, Africa. Why were you there?

I was there teaching drama to children at a school named Benmat along with tutoring, learning and spending time with the locals. I went through this amazing organization called Young Vision Africa. This group has literally built and started up a school in Sierra Leone. It was an unforgettable experience. I believe it is so important to travel to experience how the other parts of the world live.

Let's look to the future. What are your long-term goals regarding acting? 

Eventually, it would be great to act full time. I have like 17 jobs and would trade all of them to do film or theater. I’m in it for the long hall. “The turtle wins the race.”

What are you working on now and where can fans of ̤Chelsea Newman̤ go to learn more about what you're doing?

I wrapped on the film “Darkness on the Edge of Town” this past weekend. I have a few projects in the works and always looking for my next one. Fans can stay up to date on my Facebook fan page or my IMDB. I’m in the middle of getting together a new website so stay tuned!

Terry McGhee (Crew) Interview

Terry McGhee was able to corner himself in a padded room and ask some hard hitting questions about his involvement with Hectic Films. After a little probing, both orally and [Enhanced Interrogation Techniques Redacted for National Security] he was also able to learn what exciting side project Terry has been working on.

So Mr. McGhee, is it okay if we call you, “Terry” for the purposes of this interview?

Sure. I mean that’s what most people call me.

Most people? What else do they call you, and who are ‘They’?

It’s just a saying, and I didn’t say anything about ‘they’, you did. What the hell is going on here?

I’m asking the [expletive] questions here, Twisted Nipple! You got that?!

Twisted…what?

Tell us about your involvement with Hectic Films!

Right, I met Rickey Bird in 2011 or maybe it was 2012 when I worked at a local movie theater. We had mutual friends in the art scene in Bakersfield, CA and ended up bumping elbows somehow and started talking. I mentioned I was interested in what he and the rest of Hectic Films were doing and the rest is history.

History, you say? Why don’t we talk about this so-called ”history” for a second, when was your first on-set experience?

That was in July of 2012 for Naked Zombie Girl. Rickey had messaged me and asked if I wanted to come out and help while they filmed. I honestly had zero experience and told him as much, but he was adamant about getting me involved and told me to come out anyway. I remember he said the only rule that I needed to follow was not to stare at Meghan Chadeayne as if I had never seen a naked woman before.

Had you seen a naked woman before?

Of course.

In real life?

Look, I’m not gonna-

Fine, so you went to the shoot that day, what did you learn from that experience as a filmmaker?

I learned that 5pm call times were more of a suggestion than a requirement at first. Over the years, Rachel (Rickey’s wife) has shaped us all into better time managers. NZG was an amazing on set experience. One of the most inspiring things I saw was that even with a crew of guys and one nearly naked female actress, everyone managed to not be creepy. As part of the crew, we pretty much sat and stood around talking about our favorite movies and counting heads to see who had snuck off to sleep in their car at any given time. We were on set from 5pm until well after 8am the next morning, so there was more of a “that lucky bastard” mentality about it than a judgmental one. 

What did you bring to the set in the way of contributions to the film itself?

I oversaw the building of the set-

So you had a management role?

No, no. I just showed up with two of the grips and then sat my ass on an ice chest and watched them build the set.

Any actual filmmaking contributions?

I loaned my pocket knife to cut gels for the lights and also brought some water for the crew. Oh yeah, I also went and picked up pizza for everyone!

That was nice of you.

I didn’t actually pay for it.

I see. So, do you actually contribute anything to Hectic Films?

Yes, I do, and I don’t find your condescending attitude very productive to this interview process.

Whatever, it’s your brain dumb ass.

Anyway, I write reviews, help with the Facebook page management, have dabbled in skit writing, wrote a spec script for a short film idea, and post the Hectic Films Blog posts. As well as handle the craft table on film shoots and help out when needed on set.

Oh, so you are the one who comes up with the questions for the cool interview posts on the blog?

Well no, that is usually Jesse Najera and Sara Carey, I just copy and paste them onto the blog and edit them a little if needed.

Must be tough work and long hours, did you major in English at a community college?

No, I actually never finished high school. I got my GED-

That’s boring, no one cares. What have you written?

I’ve self-published four books and am currently working on my fifth right now. I’ve also been included in a handful of poetry anthologies over the years, and a couple Project Oh! Magazine issues. 

Any current writing projects for Hectic Films?

I have a couple ideas in my head, yeah.

That’s great, ideas really pay the bills. So where can people learn more about you?

People can find me on Facebook and they can actually help publish Souvenir of Nowhere by going to the campaign on Indiegogo and donating or just sharing it with friends, family, and strangers. 

Erica Rey Interview (2016)

Let us collectively thank Jesse Najera and Sara Carey for setting out into the forest with butterfly nets and questions as they tracked and humanely detained the faerie like beauty Erica Rey for some Hectic Films style questioning! Also, let us also be grateful they didn't pull any wings off during their interrogation. 

Erica Rey is a beautiful and talented model and actress. What was your first experience in front of the camera?

My very first experience in front of the camera was in church when I was about 3 or 4, I played Marry in the Christmas nativity scene. I have it on VHS somewhere.

How did you get involved with working at Character Masters? What characters do you play?

I'm the B team for character masters who are based out of Los Angeles, CA, but have just recently started my own company here in town called Bakersfield Fairytale Friends. Our slogan is "It's never too late to invite your BFF" Right now I have Elsa, Ariel, Tinkerbell, Belle and Snow White, but I plan on adding more starting with Rapunzel, as soon as possible.

You have worked with Hectic Films on other projects, including the fan film "Camp Crystal Lake". Can you tell us what that experience was like and what other movies you've made with Hectic Films? 

"Camp Crystal Lake" was a long process. It was cold. It was bloody. But it was amazing. DT was the best Jason ever. And Jessica did her best for her first time on screen. I've been in a few films with the Hectic Films team. I started with "Tear Her", had a small part in "As The Man Drives", "Camp Crystal Lake", and then my best work, in my opinion, in "A Familiar Spirit", and finally but certainly not lastly, I have a small part in "Machine Gun Baby", along with my boyfriend, Christopher Puckett.

You play in Hectic Films upcoming project "Machine Gun Baby". What can you tell us about your character and her place of employment?

"Machine Gun Baby" was so much freaking fun! Best time I've ever had on set! I play a, not so very bright, secretary, at an abortion clinic. Classy, I know. Haha. But I can't give too much away just yet.

You create a lot of your own modeling designs and often do your own hair and makeup. Any plans to get behind the camera more in regards to film making? 

I actually started out behind the camera, but no one would pose the way I wanted so I switch spots to create my art. My dad is the one who instilled a passion in me for the behind the scenes. He himself wanted to become a director as a kid and now creates amazing sculptures in his spare time. So you can see where I get most of my creativity from. I had a chance to run the boom mic on set of MGB and it was a blast! I would love an opportunity to be behind the camera more often.

Finish this line: If you were not the strikingly beautiful model/actress Erica Rey; you would be Erica Rey, the strikingly beautiful...?

If I wasn't a model/actress, if I had the opportunity to be anything I wanted, no money to account for, I would want to be a motivational speaker, to encourage young women. I would love to go to schools and have seminars, and be a voice of reason and redirection for the lost. ...or own a pit bull paradise owner, where I find happy homes all the pit bulls ever. Then end. 

You have a great presence on social media sites like SnapChat and, almost, 2,000 followers on Facebook. Where can fans of Erica Rey go to follow you and see what your up to next?

If anyone is interested in seeing my silly and sometimes boring shenanigans, you can find me on SnapChat at mscaptnmorgan. I have a Facebook page just called Erica Rey that has all my modeling stuff. I have both a modeling Instagram and a personal Instagram. @modelingbyericarey and @the_erica_rey.

Coryn McBride Micro Interview!

Mable is up for Best Western at the Action on Film Festival, we wanted to Congratulate the cast and a special shout of thanks to Coryn McBride for starring in this film and making it award nomination worthy!

1. You seem to get really into your characters. Did you do any type of western style prepping for this film?

I have always been a fan of classic westerns. I have been involved with The Gaslight Melodrama for many years which has provided bountiful experiences doing many western melodramas with my loving TGM family.

2. What do you think was your favorite moment while filming Mable?

Witnessing the talented crew work behind the scenes is so much fun. I loved meeting the horses especially. The many people dedicated their craft, tools, space, and time to bring it all together was so awe inspiring. At Ethel's Old Corral, I was Pat and Dave's bartender and to see what he had been hounding Rickey to do (a western) for so long finally come into production was heartwarming. I know Dave would be damn proud of that worm.

3. How did you get involved in the most epic/mind blowing company in the world, Hectic Films?

I worked with Rickey while shooting Matt Kieley's film Carte Blanche. That started it all!

4. What kinda stuff do you like on your tacos? Corn or Flour?

Corn always! I love al pastor tacos with a pineapple mango salsa, or fish and shrimp tacos, or veggie tacos with bell pepper, onion, and avocado. I love tacos!!!

5. Are you currently working on any upcoming projects?

I have moved out of the area but I look forward to making some time for some cameos, shorts, or feature length films as they are accessible and available throughout the years. I'm hoping to be the next Betty White!

You can catch the beautiful and talented Coryn McBride in Mable at the Action On Film Festival in Monrovia, CA. Tickets and information can be found here:
https://www.facebook.com/events/922378104540581/

DT Carney Micro Interview!

Congrats to DT Carney for his nomination at the Action on Film Festival for Golden State Best Performance in an Acting Role Award for As The Man Drives! Holy crap, that is the longest award we have ever heard anyone nominated for!

1. So are you excited to be back at the Action on Film Festival this year?

Yes, I am. I love Monrovia, CA. I feel like I step back in time out there, like its a 1970's town. Very clean and quite. The Action on Film Festival treated us more than nice and you don't forget that. I am also proud to be with team Hectic Films.When you back one of their films you can rest assure it's going to be a great film. Hectic Films has three awesome films in the festival this year. Mable, Naked Zombie Girl, and As the Man Drives.

2. Tell us your favorite part about filming As The Man Drives?

My Favorite part of Filming As the Man Drives was actually the Script. After reading it I was stoked Rickey had the faith I could pull off such a character. We had a  bunch of laughs driving around in that boat of a car that threatened to quit throughout filming. Of course, I'll never forget going into a freezing pool fully clothed and being laughed at by everyone involved. Gotta love the Hectic Films brotherhood.

3. Any good stories on the set of As the Man Drives?

I was in awe of the care given to the shots. Drone shots, underwater shots, trying to talk Rickey out of going into that freezing pool. I tried to tell him I'd come back in a few  months when it wasn't so cold. Well we all know how that turned out. There is no saying, "No!" to Rickey Bird Jr.

4. What current projects are you working on now?

I am currently awaiting word from Chicago on my script of Redemption Owns a Gun. If green lit, you will see Hectic Films back at it with this real life mob story. I am also getting ready to work with Director Michael Rodriguez on his latest film Lake of Shadows.

5. How many yards do you think you can throw a football?

Farther than uncle Rico, that's for sure. I don't need a time machine to prove it, I can do it now in 2016. I'll throw that pigskin the length of Monrovia, you'll see!

6. Have you ever hit anyone while drinking a Pepsi?

No, I only drink Pepsi as a total last resort. I am a Coca-Cola man. I once hit a man who resembled a pirate with M.C Hammer pants on while sipping a coke, But that's for another time.

You can help support DT Carney and Hectic Films at the Action On Film Festival in Monrovia, CA on Monday, September 5 at 5:30 PM - 7 PM by purchasing tickets here: https://www.facebook.com/events/282073495508624/