THE WHEELCHAIR MAFIA, 15min., France
Directed by Michael Kay
A film covering what unfolded during thirty six hours at a dog shelter ninety minutes south of Bangkok.

https://www.instagram.com/mikeykayfilms

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film? I stumbled across an IG story of TMTRD foundations showing the excitement of the dogs in Wheelchairs. After researching the organization, and discovering the brilliant work it did, and as a lover of dogs, I wanted to help shoot some film and photography content. It was serendipity, as I was also filming in Bangkok on a separate project. So I contacted the shelter and they invited me down on the weekend when I wasn't filming the other project. I am a solo filmmaker so when I arrive on location, it gets busy very fast, especially as there was no time for any pre-production (pre-interviews etc). What unravelled over 36hrs at the shelter was tragic and inspirational and the same time. And the backstory of the main character, Chris, was mind-blowing. So the different sub arcs I captured during those 36hrs gave me the motivation to piece together a short film showcasing the shelter, the dogs, and the humans that work for them.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? One-month.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!? Overcoming Adversity.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? It was on-the-fly. So having to respond quickly to unplanned events. For example, media cards on my person to replace at any moment to capture what was hallooing in front of me. Making sure the audio was running and not peaking. Rapid changes of environment, requiring quick assessments of lighting. And being sensitive to asking questions in very emotional circumstances.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video? Heartwarming, giving a massive sense of accomplishment. Ultimately, I wanted to expose the excellent work that the shelter does, but at the same time there was an emotional back story to tell, about the epidemic of Oxycontin in the U.S.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films? 2 hours after I started filming.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life? The first long form film I ever made called My Autistic Big brother and Me. Again, all filmed and edited solo. A personal story on my severely autistic brother who loves the mountains, the death or my mother, his only carer, and the aftermath of finding a care solution that didn't involve institutionalization.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career? I am a solo filmmaker which as massive advantages when you want to film a social impact documentary that comes across as authentic. When it is just you in the room, people (and dogs) relax.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site? Impressive, dedicated and very personal.

10. What is your favorite meal? Ramen.

11. What is next for you? A new film? Looking /:-)