The Truth Will Out (2020)
Directors: Jessica Hunt, Sam Mason-Bell
Writers: Jessica Hunt, Sam Mason-Bell
Starring: Sam Mason-Bell, Jackson Batchelor, Jessica Hunt, Suki Jones, Kayla Charlton
A British docu-horror inspired by the #MeToo movement
Thomas Laboss the host of Hard Streets UK, hits the road interviewing families and different culture across the UK, uncovering the truth and being his usual exploitive self, but there’s something a little bit more sinister about this particular family, and he may not get out of this one alive.
In a new interview in the series leading up to Horror-on-Sea Film Festival, I got a chance to ask The Truth Will Out co-writer/director Sam Mason-Bell a few questions about what we can expect from the film.
Q. Your new film The Truth Will Out has been selected to play at Horror-on-Sea. Can you tell us what we can expect from the film?
The Truth Will Out is a seedy nasty docu-horror, that revels in its truths, under covering the nastier side to documentary film making.
Q. What were your influences for the original script which you co-wrote with Jessica Hunt?
I originally write the film late 2017 directly after the #MeToo movement feeling pretty disgusted but relieved that the world was finally seeing the nastiness going on. We sat on the idea for a while, before returning to it late 2018. Jess brought a real commitment to crafting the witchy world.
Q. In addition to writing, you also co-directed the film with Jessica Hunt. What is the process of you directing the film together and what do each of you bring to the film?
Working with Jess is such an easy and fulfilling experience. She fully embraced all the research needed on the witches, whilst I researched #MeToo cases. Me and Jess are fortunate to have fluidity with each project, and its always exciting to work with her. Acting as well gave us more of an insider perspective on the film, helping to shape it further.
Q. What were some of your influences for the look and style of the film?
Me and Jess previous film Lonely Hearts (2018), dictated where we wanted to go with Truth Will Out. Sticking once again to docu-horror, we watched and looked at documentary’s show that are driven by personality, for example Louie Theroux’s documentary’s, to give that personal touch. Also we wanted the ending to be more cinematic for the violoncello and spells, so we decided to step back from the docu-horror, after all where playing under our own rules.
Q. Where there any elements of the original script which were adapted during filming?
Seeing as like Lonely Hearts, Truth Will Out was mostly improvised I am actually happy to say not much was changed from the film, we were fortunate to use our own home and craft it how we wish.
Q. You also appear in the film as Stan, can you tell us a little bit about the character you play?
Stan jumps from job to job, clearly detests working on the show hoping for a bigger break. Thomas Laboss’s less than professional behaviour to Stan is a door to acclaim in his eyes, allowing his cynical nature to get what it wants, documenting Thomas bad behaviour.
Q. Did you always intend to play the character when writing the script?
We wanted to keep the final as minimal as possible, working with actors we knew could deliver, and be able to film it. I really enjoyed stepping in for this role, ive played sound men before but not a camera op, I was looking forward to that.
Q. Are there any elements of the character which reflect some of your own personality?
I guess there’s a drive for the truth, to see those who abuse power get what they deserve.
Q. Did you experience any issues during filming?
Fortunately no, which is so odd. Shooting at our home over a rainy weekend, we found our selves on time, on schedule, and not upsetting any non film making house mates!
Q. What were some of your favourite moments during filming?
I think the thing I loved the most was just working with the cast, staying within character seeing the chemistry between Suki Jones and Kevin Cordell. It was also kinda fun having a rather grizzly death.
Q. What makes The Truth Will Out stand out as something different in the horror genre?
To me the Truth Will Out stands out because its horribly familiar, a story played out and experienced by many. Abuse of power is something that sadly isn’t going away, and anyone can feel that. The cathartic experience of revenge is even more welcoming.
Q. What do you hope people take away after watching the film?
As obvious as it may seem, not to abuse anyone?
Q. Do you have any other projects which you are currently working on?
TrashArts currently has 8 films in post production, I had the great fortune to produce some features next year coming out in 2020. I am shooting my next feature at the end of January, a kinky weirdo drama called ‘Acting‘ I am very excited for that! Then its back to directing with Jess, working on something away from the docu-horror genre.
Q. If someone was looking to write and direct their own film what advice would you give them?
Chemistry is everything. Chemistry with crew and cast, understanding and sharing to create the perfect art. Its a cheesy line but there really is no I in team, you might wanna keep looking for that I but ‘Team I”, sounds kinda weird?
The Truth Will Out will be playing at Horror-on-Sea on Sunday 12th January at 17:30 hrs
You can find out more about Horror-on-Sea and purchase tickets for the festival here:
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!
