SKINWALKER, 12min,. USA
Directed by Benjamin Gaun
Two cowboy brothers investigate the disappearances of their townfolk in the cold woods of Northern Arizona, only to find that they are the ones being hunted, by something not quite animal or human.

https://www.instagram.com/cityboys.llc/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I decided I wanted to pursue film as a writer/director and met some talented actors that wanted to gain experience. I wrote a minimalist script and we just went out and winged it!

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
I wrote SKINWALKER in about 2 weeks, only about 13 pages and we prepped for about a month planning it out with equipment and location. Then we shot it all in one night. After filming it then took about 3 months to edit which I did the majority of myself. Editing was by far the hardest part and I will be definitely be hiring someone for my next film!

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Tense and spooky.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Editing. I had little experience and had to do it all myself with my cameraman. We quickly discovered how much needed to be done from color to sound.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
So happy, I am so glad people liked it! I have to admit I was surprised to admit the lighting was well received, we were STRUGGLING with the lights that night hahaha.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
Probably after college graduation. My finance job wasn't fulfilling and I always loved movies. I decided to get more involved and all of a sudden things snowball.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
I think as a kid I watched Lord of the Rings over 100x. My parents are sick of it lol but I will always sacrifice a weekend to rewatch those.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Little things like the audience reactions are amazing! I think anything that filmmakers like myself can show other people so they take us serious and get us involved into projects goes such a long way.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
I love filmfreeway, I need to be careful not to spend all my money on there.

10. What is your favorite meal?
SUSHI

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Currently writing a few short films and trying to build my filmmaking resume to keep getting bigger and better! I really want to do an action drama next. Spies and gun-fu. Follow my production page on instagram: @cityboys.llc