Shepherd film seven years in making
Recently, I was fortunate to attend a screening of a movie made by film maker Julia Reynolds, who is based in the Waikato. Here’s what she had to say about the film.
Q: Why decide to have the screening, was it to raise funds or maybe feel like it would help with the final push to complete film?
A: The screening was held to raise money for the composition of the score by Jeremy Mayall and the recording of the musicians.
Q: Was the live accompaniment part of the idea for fundraiser?
A: Yes, it was a way to attract an audience to a film that is not quite finished. We have always tried very hard to be inclusive with the Waikato community. They have supported us over the years and I think, from an audience perspective, it is a great opportunity to see the workings of a film in-process.
Q: Is it more nerve-wracking showing an incomplete film?
A: I’m not sure if it is more nerve-wracking - showing a film in general is nerve-wracking, but it felt good.
Q: Did you write the voice-over in the script, or did it come in the edit?
A: It came in the edit, it is something I’m still working on - I’m not sure all of it worked and I am, also not sure of the placement - again still in progress.
Q: What was it like working with claireashton7@gmail.com Peter Elliot and Ian Mune, and what attracted them to the project?
A: Working with Peter was amazing. He is a great man and talent. When Wendy and I were writing, I just imagined him in the part, so I contacted him directly. We met up and talked about the project and he happily came on board. And I first contacted Ian Mune’s agent. And sent through the script. Then we met at his home and talked about the project. He is a lovely generous man. It was amazing to work with
‘‘The film sort of grew around her. We have a great friendship and respect of each other - it was an honour for me as a mother to direct my daughter.’’ Julia Reynolds
him - a real highlight.
Q: Your daughter played the lead character I believe? How was that directing her, perhaps as opposed to a non-family member?
A: It was great to direct her. The principal photography started just before she turned 13 and finished when she was 16. The film sort of grew around her. We have a great friendship and respect of each other - it was an honour for me as a mother to direct my daughter.
Q: The old Matangi Dairy factory was a key location, how did that come about?
A: We had already written the film when we moved into Matangi, but I knew it was perfect the moment Renee Casserly (producer) showed it to me. The Mobray group were very generous letting us film on their site. The locals ‘at the factory’ did not directly have a hand in it, but they were always interested - very encouraging. Weshould all be encouraged when an artist has a vision and does their utmost to achieve it. I applaud Julia Reynolds, for her passion and perseverance.
- Waikato writer, film-maker Claire Ashton grew up in Hamilton and now lives in Te Aroha.