Film Name: Scared Shitless
Director: Vivieno Caldinelli
Writers: Brandon Cohen
Starring: Steven Ogg, Daniel Doheny, Chelsea Clark, Mark McKinney, Julian Richings
A plumber and his germophobic son are forced to get their hands dirty to save the residents of an apartment building, when a genetically engineered, blood-thirsty creature escapes into the plumbing system.
Q. Your film Scared Shitless has been selected to play at the Dead And SudBuried Film Festival. Can you tell us what we can expect from the film?
I think you’ll have a blast! Lots of laughs– See great cool scares, and watch a great story. We wanted to make a film that has everything a horror fan would want– And a great movie we’d love to see. I hope the audience feels the same way!!
Q. What attracted you to the script for Dead And SudBuried Film Festival which was written by Brandon Cohen?
I loved the premise. Thought It was brilliant. Toilet monster swimming in the pipes might be the worst nightmare you could have. Made me laugh out loud and giddy with excitement with the potential imaginative kills!
Q. What were some of your influences for the look and style of the film?
A. The Blob (1988) remake hit me right out if the gate. The style, sensibility, and The use of practical effects. One of the major kills was directly inspired by The Blob remake as well.
Q. Di you make any changes to the script during filming?
Totally, it’s some I do with every film I direct. It’s more of a punch up and add/heighten set pieces. It’s a fun process. Also, to insure how that I can shoot the film in the time/budget allotted. The latter more so. It’s always such a puzzle to solve and it makes the process so much easier.
Q. What were some of your favourite moments during filming?
Riffing on the ending with Steven Ogg. Things always change during shooting, and we had to find the ending on the floor so to speak. I love working with my back to the wall. Sometimes it brings out your best work.
Q. Did you experience any issues during filming?
Always– I would be freaked out if things went too smoothly. It would mean you’re not pushing yourself to the limit or maximizing everything you got. You should be walking just on the edge of disaster.
Q. What makes Scared Shitless stand out as something different in the horror genre?
It’s a genuine story with some great performances. It’s not just a movie that goes for the gore and laughs.
Q. What do you hope people take away after watching the film?
It’s a real feel-good movie that delivers a good time with something for everyone. That people walk away from it smiling– And looking forward to the sequel.
Q. Do you have any other projects which you are currently working on?
Many– The sequel to Scared Shitless, also an animated series with some good friends I’m excited about. Also working with Steve Kostanski on a dumb idea for a show. Lots of irons in the fire!
Q. If someone was looking to direct their own film what advice would you give them?
Know the budget you have to work with– And get that script as good as you can get it to knock it out of the park. If you can afford to do it on your own, then get out there and shoot it.
Published in various websites, Philip is a reviewer who is best known for his interviews and media coverage of independent projects including; films, books, theatre and live events. Always on the lookout for something different to cover!
