5Q's w/Jonathan Kiefer "Side Effects May Include" Director

#1: Can you describe your movie and why somebody should see it in less than 140 characters?

You know those weird commercials for drugs that’ll solve all your problems but maybe cause many more problems? This is a mockery of those.

#2: What do you want the Borrego Springs Film Festival audience to know about your film that isn’t obvious from its title?

I do in fact respect medical science! 

#3: What is your movie making background?  Tell us about yourself.

Based in San Francisco, I’m the screenwriter and associate producer of the independent feature Around the Sun, described as “intimate and yet deliciously cerebral” by the UK Guardian, and as “very boring” by someone on Amazon. Short films I’ve made have been in several festivals but not this one until now, so I’m excited to be here. 

#4: What was the biggest lesson learned in getting your film made?

All you really need is your own voice. And to follow through.

#5: What does the future hold for your film and you?

Happily, this one has a few more showings planned. Meanwhile, with the support of a residency from SFFILM, I’m working on an original feature about a fictional Shakespeare-festival production of Hamlet. As well as the trial and error of some animated shorts for the ideal target audience of my two young daughters.