Ryan James Whitwell wore many hats during the making of Bunny Galore’s Movie Nightmares, Season 9, and immediately struck a chord with the source material due to being a huge fan of Elvira and Mystery Science Theatre 3000. Now the dust has settled, and Episode 01 of Movie Nightmares has aired exclusively on Miami Fox Streaming, Ryan takes his director’s pew to discuss all things Bunny, Miami Fox, and smashes the ball out of the park first time.
1. What is your process for directing a film/photoshoot?
I like to keep things pretty straightforward and calm. I find when trying to do too much or overcomplicate things it leads to too many openings for things to go wrong.
I have a fair bit of experience in stills photography, so I usually know exactly what I want visually and how to achieve it. I like to just get hands-on and set things up well before the actor is ready, so they can walk in and have everything ready for them to do their thing.
2. How do you work with actors to create the best visual performances?
For me, it’s all about the atmosphere on set/location. I like to try and keep a relaxed mood and trust the actors whilst also matching the tone of what we’re shooting when speaking to people on set. With comedy and fun things (like Bunny Galore’s Movie Nightmares), I will definitely speak with a lot more gusto and energy than if I was shooting something more serious or macabre like a gothic-themed photoshoot. I find matching the energy of the room to the intended scene really helps get the desired result from those in front of the camera.
3. What was your vision for this project?
I really wanted to strike a balance between a spooky gothic vibe and the fun colourful energy that Bunny Galore has. I am a fan of Elvira and Mystery Science Theatre 3000, so those shows definitely played a role in what I was imagining at first when asked to work on Movie Nightmares. Upon visiting the studio space where we would be shooting, a whole lot of ideas started coming through as Murder Mile studio has some great inspiring sets, which we made full use of.
5. How do you tackle projects with very tight timelines or challenging locations?
Preparation and knowing your gear is crucial. I always try to visit a site well before a shoot to get ideas, and at home, I’ll test lighting and camera gear so I can turn up on the day and be ready. I will get stuck in from the moment I’m on set, not just to save time but also because I love doing it!
6. What tips would you give aspiring filmmakers/photographers who are just starting their careers?
Practice, practice, practice and have patience. Take time to learn and make mistakes. It’s all a good experience that will all be useful when you start getting noticed and invited to work on bigger projects.
7. What was the part you enjoyed the most when you were filming Bunny Galore’s Movie Nightmares?
Working with Bunny was a joy. There were a few scenes where they smashed it out of the park on the first take! Always nice when working with people who are amazing at their job, like Bunny Galore is!
Bunny Galore’s Movie Nightmares airs every Friday at 9 PM ET and is FREE with a Miami Fox Streaming Subscription. Â
Don’t forget to check out our interview with Bunny Galore here on Blazing Minds.
Karen Woodham is the founder and owner of the Blazing Minds. She is also a Cinema reviewer and works with RealD 3D reviewing the latest 3D releases and IMAX, she has also had several articles published in various publications including the first edition of SFW Magazine. In 2015 she became an Award Winning Blogger and also has her website listed as one of the UK’s Top 10 Film Blogs.
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