by erin thursby scopes1925@msn.com
Breaking into film directing can be a daunting task, but those that are willing to cast a net outside the usual artsy-indie projects can carve out a living. In between more personally driven projects, Jacksonville director-for-hire Gerald Jackson, Jr. lends his filmmaking artistry to different types of films, from music videos and promotional book trailers to commercials. He has also made a number of creative short films, including a satirical documentary called Chasing Kevin: the Hunt for a Picture with Kevin Smith, which seems to echo Michael Moore’s Roger & Me, with a much less serious subject.
EU got the chance to have a dialogue with Jackson about filmmaking and his production company, Five Alive Films.
EU: You’ve done quite a few projects since you graduated four years ago from Florida State University with a M. F. A in Motion Picture, Television & Recording Arts. How have you changed as an artist since graduating?
Gerald Jackson, Jr: As an artist I’ve definitely learned to respect filmmaking more, as well as what it takes to get a project completed. My first several projects were basically funded because of film school. When I returned to Jacksonville in 2004, I found out that I had to pursue financing and assistance to get the project completed. This, at times, proved to be quite frustrating.
Also as an independent, I’ve been able to access equipment and technology I’ve never been able to use before. Of course, this comes with a price attached, but sacrifices must be made for the quality of the project.
Regarding my shooting style, I’m glad to say I’ve been able to incorporate more movement in my projects. My last several projects incorporated jibs, cranes, dollies, and the manipulation of movement speed. I love films that are always on the go; hopefully, this movement will complement the film’s narrative. I learn more with every project that I complete.
EU: What inspired you to become a filmmaker?
GJ: Many things inspired me to want to become a part of the film industry. I can remember as a child, always telling stories to all of my friends. Of course, I told these stories...visually and...dramatically… Also, I’ve always loved movies. Every weekend growing up, my parents would take me and my brother to as many movies as possible. I would be mesmerized by these moving pictures on this large screen! It is uncanny how powerful the media of film is. I can’t even tell you how my times I’ve cried, screamed, become enraged, laughed, and even learned something just from a film! After witnessing how influential movies can be, I knew I had to become involved in the art form in some form or fashion.
EU: I notice you use a lot of digital. Is that the only medium you use? What are the benefits and drawbacks of digital?
GJ: Locally, my projects have been done on digital video. The main reason is primarily financial. Many don’t realize that film is extremely expensive. First, you actually have to purchase the film stock, which is not cheap... After filming, huge costs go into the film’s processing. Believe me, that’s also quite pricey. Don’t forget, that unless you own a film camera, you can add on rental fees. For independent filmmakers, using actual film can be a financial challenge. From my experience, digital video cameras are cheaper to rent than film cameras. Plus, instead of purchasing actual film, you only have to buy digital video tapes which are comparatively inexpensive.
I’ve actually shot on film before, and the time and stress saved by using digital is amazing! With digital, you don’t have to worry too much about over/underexposure, “hairs” in the gate, film scratches, and the inevitable film processing. Many purists would argue how today’s filmmakers are deviating from “the art” of filmmaking by not using film. I always have to remind them that it’s not what you film on that is important, it’s the story that matters most. If your project has a good plot/narrative, what type of media you film on is irrelevant.
With today’s technology, digital film can flawlessly duplicate the look of actual film. Films such as 28 Days Later and Bamboozled were both filmed digitally. Therefore, it is apparent that Hollywood is slowly starting to embrace digital filmmaking as legitimate.
EU: Where are book trailers shown? I’d like to know a little more about book trailers since the medium is new to me….
GJ: Absolutely! Book trailers are a developing new trend in the book industry. For those not familiar, book trailers are essentially movie trailers for books. The author will then use them for promotional purposes. For example, the author might take the trailer to conventions, or run them on his/her website. Rumor has it that these trailers might be shown in bookstores. It is strongly assumed that these trailers will take off and possibly be the standard. Does anyone remember the industry’s initial reaction to music videos?
EU: Tell us about your most current project…
GJ: I have several exciting projects going on. This past fall, I opened my own production company named Five Alive Films. We specialize in book trailers, music videos, and film shorts.
Currently, we are aggressively contacting record labels to produce music videos. This is definitely something I’m excited about. I’ve directed three, so I’m hoping to do more. I am absolutely interested in experimenting in music genres such as country, punk rock, folk, and rap.
My production company is also currently in negotiations with WJXE-15, a new television channel in town, to produce a new television program. It is tentatively titled “Sunday Morning Gospel Brunch,” and it will be an inspirational show that will feature local gospel groups, simple cooking, and uplifting dialogue.
Finally, I’m in the process of researching grants to fund a major film short for this late summer/early fall. I completed a script titled “Shannon and Courtney’s Babysitter Bedlam,” and it is about two children and their misadventures with a problematic babysitter.
EU: What project are you most proud of?
GJ: I would have to say my music video, ‘Jumping Waves’ by the band Tracy Shedd. It was my first music video, and it turned out so well. We used both digital and real film, and it looked amazing! I love doing period pieces, so we asked local car clubs to donate vintage cars. We used period clothes, hairstyles, and props to create the perfect look. The best part was that that everyone who worked on this project all volunteered. I always offer my sincerest gratitude to my volunteers. In the end, it turned out great and we had an amazing time!
EU: What’s your opinion of the local film scene?
GJ: When I returned to Jacksonville, I was floored by the constant film activities that were going on. There were film festivals, film screenings, meetings, and socials almost weekly! On top of that, a major film came to town to film every season. I’ve noticed lately that the fervor around local films have cooled lately. By no means am I saying that the passion isn’t there, but there doesn’t seem to be as many film-related activities in the area. I’m sure the excitement will be picking up very soon, and I hope to be involved.
You can see some of Jackson’s films on his production company website, fivealivefilms.com, where you can also contact him for a project.
Article Published in the May 2008 Issue of EU Jacksonville
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