QUESTION#1: What excited you the most when making this film?: I always aim to tell stories that are unique, yet accessible. So while I hope we succeeded in presenting a traditional story in a nontraditional way, I was really excited about the brushstrokes of magic realism we incorporated and how they allow the audience to form their own interpretations. And of course, we had an indispensable cast and crew that made everyday of filming an absolute joy.

QUESTION#2: What was the most significant film you've seen AT THE THEATER in 2024, and how did it influence your filmmaking?: My wife and I have a 20 month old son at home, so going to the theater has been pretty difficult the past year and a half or so. In fact, I think I've only seen a few films in the theater since he was born. That said, I managed to see Furiousa in the theater and it was incredible. It wasn't an influence since it came out after our film was completed, but I think there are a few similarities (even though the films couldn't be more different). Most notably, both feature strong and complex female protagonists.

QUESTION#3: What's an obvious and not-so-obvious question someone might ask about your film?: The obvious question would be, what does the ending of the film mean (I know, but I'm not telling.)? Maybe a less obvious question is why did I decide to edit this film myself, in addition to writing and directing? I really believe in collaborating and I do recognize the importance of an unbiased editor, I just think that editing is part of the writing process. I know I probably won't be able to edit every film I write and direct, so I'm going to keep at it as long as it's an option.

QUESTION#4: A magic movie genie is giving you an unlimited budget for your next production! However, you're only allowed to use it on either "above line" or "below line" resouces. Which do you choose and why?: This is a tough question. I think you absolutely need strong performances to pull the audience into your film, but if push came to shove, I think I'd go with below the line. Rationale here is that if everything else is in place, and the story/screenplay is strong, we'd be able to get passionate and committed actors to sign on.

QUESTION#5: What is it about your current movie that will influence your next film?: For a short, this was a big film, in that it had a lot of locations and we filmed all over Los Angeles county. We filmed for 4 days, had 4 company moves, and fought the clock and traffic every day. I really had a blast making "On Paper," but I really want my next project (filming in the spring) to be much smaller in scale.

5Q's w/: Arthur Helterbran Jr. "On Paper" Director, Writer, Producer