Acting, directing, operating a smartphone camera and editing a film to share an incredible well structured story is how Ross Perkins accomplished making a full length feature mobile film. Episode 45 of the SBP Podcast: The Voice of Mobile Film™ takes us to Australia to discuss the experience of making a feature film with an iPhone and a talented cast.
We spoke about sound recording and how to integrate a seamless dialogue during camera operation in a moving self-recording scene filled with action and movement. During some scenes some of the actors operate the cameras themselves and it gives the story multiple perspectives. However, the film has one protagonist which actually sneaks up on you in the sense that you discover which character’s perspective the story is being told from. There are many twists and turns in the film which keep the viewer engaged in this dark comedy and thriller.
The film emphasizes the point that you need good actors, to portray good characters to make a great story blow you away in any film regardless of what camera you use, or even aesthetic production values. According to Ross, “The film is dialogue heavy.” which also lends to the point of why good actors are instrumental to the value of your film and story. There is a great ensemble of actors to appreciate in the film. We discuss how acting in theatre enriched his career and prepped him for acting in film and filmmaking. And we also talk about the intrusion of a camera in both acting and filmmaking versus the smartphone camera.
There is a unique element to the film as it incorporates the current use of smartphones, including apps, GPS, social media and messaging into the story. The creative use of how Ross used the advantage of this brings an intriguing and captivating value to his film. The film is over 120 minutes long and following it as a viewer is incredibly natural and effortless. It brings the viewer to the edge of their seats, it brings laughter and a bit of lip-biting suspense and terror, too.
This filmmaker made the best use of a smartphone as the camera but also included the phone into the story as one of the characters. Although there has not been an award given to a smartphone for exceptional acting, if there was, this film would definitely be considered.
Mad House is about a home invasion and it is based on a real event that took place, which Ross explains why he felt a need to tone down a bit for his film. Our conversation brought us to discuss a bit about the original Blair Witch Project film and then we spoke a bit about self marketing for filmmakers.
We hope you can make it to the film festival in San Diego to meet Ross Perkins, watch the film and participate during the Q&A.
SBP Podcast: The Voice of Mobile Film™ is for everyone who ever wanted to or is curious about making movies and videos using smartphones.
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Watch the trailer and get a taste of the film: https://vimeo.com/303414632
Follow Ross Perkins on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rossperkins28/
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