Jason Stringer

After four months of meetings, auditions, rehearsals and careful planning we have a new short film almost completely in the can, ready for editing. I say almost in the can because, while principal photography is finished, there are still a couple of pickups that need to occur (shots not requiring principal cast).

The task of directing a film in any format is always a challenging journey. This shoot ran for three solid days and pushed the boundaries of every emotion I could possibly muster. From sheer frustration to overwhelming exhilaration — not forgetting tiredness, anger, joy, and jealousy.
Jealousy because I have given the cinematography role a shot before (during film school) and here was Danny Clark, a good mate of mine, producing pure gold in every shot without a paycheque. I’m very happy with how good this film looks.

I got to work with an acceptional team on this independent project. Assembled by producer Sara Horvat, people were dedicated to their roles and delivered fantastic results at every level. Thanks to everyone who donated their time and be part of a wonderful filmmaking family.

Personally, That Year They Were Bridesmaids was all about exploring my abilities to direct some honesty to the screen.  The film deals with topics I’m close to and I felt confident I could tell the story accurately. I cannot wait to see the final product, scoop up everything I learned and muscle it into the next project.

What’s important for me now is to turn the film around in a timely manner.  A post production schedule is in place and some upcoming festival deadlines will keep us in check. Even before That Year They Were Bridesmaids hits screens, I’m already working hard on planning what to do next.  What do I need to practice? What do I need to learn? And how can we go about these things in an entertaining way?

Someone should write a book about this stuff…