OB: Hi! I’m Liv, editor of Indy Reviews. Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions!
OB: Could you start by telling me how your career began – where did you start and how did you get to where you are today?
AB: My journey into the world of filmmaking began in the bustling TV commercial scene of Australia at the tender age of 14, where I cut my teeth as a PA. By 20, I was immersing myself in acting school, which soon led to my first role in ‘Lex and Rory’. Although I cherished my time in front of the camera, my passion for storytelling propelled me towards screenwriting, producing, and directing. This diverse skill set took me to New Zealand to work in film distribution before I made the bold leap to the US six years ago, driven by a dream to create my own films.
OB: With your finger on the pulse of almost ever aspect of the filmmaking process, both in front of and behind the camera, you must have a unique insight into the industry as a whole. Are there any areas you found more challenging than others? Do you have a favourite area to work in?
AB: Navigating the multifaceted world of filmmaking, especially as an independent, is undeniably challenging. Every aspect, from acting to producing, carries its unique hurdles. Yet, there’s a profound joy in bringing together a harmonious team and witnessing the magic unfold on a ‘good day’. My penchant for producing, where I orchestrate scripts, talent, and crew into a cohesive unit, is particularly gratifying. The process is arduous, yet immensely rewarding.
OB: Having such breadth of experience across all disciplines of filmmaking from acting, writing and directing, to producing, must have been useful when founding your companies, LAMA Entertainment and Bridge and Acorn Entertainment. Could you introduce your companies and give a brief explanation of what they do.
AB: LAMA Entertainment emerged initially as a distribution venture, evolving into production to cater to a broader spectrum of mainstream and genre films. Bridge and Acorn Entertainment, on the other hand, focuses on narratives that uplift and inspire. Both entities were born from a desire to revive the mid-range film dynamism of the 80s and 90s and to reintroduce independent cinema to the theatrical experience.
OB: What inspired you to take such a diverse journey in filmmaking? What led to you wanting to start your own company?
AB: The catalyst for my diverse career trajectory was a combination of necessity and dissatisfaction. I was determined not to wait passively for opportunities but to create them, driven by a desire to craft the roles and stories I believed in. This proactive mindset led to the establishment of my own companies, enabling me to bring my cinematic visions to life.
OB: What is the ethos of your company? What kinds of things are you striving to achieve?
AB: At the heart of our company’s ethos is a deep-seated commitment to championing truly original storytelling. In an era where the industry leans heavily towards adaptations and intellectual properties, we ardently pursue the path less traveled. Our vision is to revive and nurture the creation of films grounded in original ideas and scripts. It’s about recapturing the spirit of innovation and diversity in narrative that seems to have dwindled over the years. We’re dedicated to producing content that stands out not just for its uniqueness but also for its ability to resonate deeply with audiences, offering fresh perspectives and untold stories. This dedication to originality is what we believe sets us apart and fuels our passion for filmmaking.
OB: Could you tell me about a professional highlight or anything you’re particularly proud of?
AB: Reflecting on my career, the mere ability to navigate and thrive in the competitive landscape of the US film industry stands out as a monumental achievement. It’s a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of my passion.
OB: What influences and motivates your work?
AB: My work is fueled by the storytelling prowess of past filmmakers, whose innovative narratives and cinematic techniques continue to inspire and challenge me.
OB: Are there any avenues you haven’t had chance to explore yet in your career that you would be interested in pursuing?
AB: There remains a vast landscape of creative collaboration I yearn to explore, especially with renowned directors, writers, and actors. My career is a journey of continuous discovery, with each project offering a chance to fulfill these aspirations.
OB: What projects are on the horizon for you?
AB: I recently concluded production on ‘The Christmas Letter’, featuring Chevy Chase and Randy Quaid, among others. My slate remains bustling with ‘The Weight of Darkness’, a horror/thriller, and ‘Dissonance’, set in Edinburgh. Both projects promise to be exciting additions to my portfolio.
OB: Finally, can you introduce The Keeper and the role/roles you played in its creation!
The Keeper is a heartfelt narrative inspired by the true story of George Eshleman, a military veteran who embarks on a transformative journey along the Appalachian Trail to combat PTSD and prevent veteran suicide. My dual role as George and co-director, alongside Kenny Bryant, aims to shed light on the challenges veterans face, with a release planned for Cinemas on Memorial Day 2024.