5Q's w/Zack Kron "Matched" Director
#1: Can you describe your movie and why somebody should see it in less than 140 characters?
Filmed entirely by matchlight, 'Matched' is a 3-min thriller full of horror nods and a satisfying twist whether you're a horror fan or not!
#2: What do you want the Borrego Springs Film Festival audience to know about your film that isn’t obvious from its title?
"Matched" sounds like another dating-app comedy, and the film is definitely not that. While dating factors into the story and there is humor involved, the film is definitely more of a thriller.
#3: What is your movie making background? Tell us about yourself.
I started off as an actor, and still jump in front of the camera from time to time. I started making films during a dry spell and have found I really enjoy telling a story from the other side of the camera as well. I've learned it's hard to be the Director, Cinematographer, and Actor all at once; so I try to limit it to 2 of those. The first film I produced was an adaptation of a Tennessee Williams play "The Palooka" starring Mad Men's Bryan Batt, and I was pretty hooked after that. I enjoy both shooting and directing, so having a talented team that I trust (no matter how small that team might be) makes all the difference.
#4: What was the biggest lesson learned in getting your film made?
Honestly, there weren't many problems or tough choices to make. I was reminded that having more batteries and memory cards than you think you need is always a good idea. I did learn that I can actually let go of a little more control than I usually do: we switched to the backup camera for better low-light performance on the day, and since I was shooting handheld and wear glasses, my eyes couldn't actually focus on the monitor--I really had to rely on my focus puller (a luxury I don't often have when shooting) and he nailed it. Oh, and some brands of matches burn brighter than others!
#5: What does the future hold for your film and you?
Hopefully the future will hold in-person screenings! I finished the edit of the film early in the pandemic, and still have not been able to see it with a live audience, and I hear there's nothing like watching a thriller with a live audience! ("Matched" is my first foray into that genre) That said, it's more important to keep people safe, so I'm working on writing and prepping my next few films to have them ready to go when it's safe to film and screen again.
