I didn't know what I was getting my self into, other than the fact that Paul Kolker, an amazing improv comedian and actor, had invited me at last minute, knowing that I wanted to act more and mingle with the film world.
I attended the LA FilmPrize gathering at the Four Day Weekend Theater in Dallas, Texas, hosted by Rob Senska and organized, at least in part, by Paul Kolker.
I had no intentions to make a film, and certainly never thought I'd be able to put together a film quickly enough for this year's festival. I've had plenty of story ideas bouncing around my head, but didn't really think I'd ever create one of them on film. I'd just stick to finishing my novel.
On a whim, I signed up as a director that night. As a result, I won a $1000 grant! What's the point of having a grant if you don't use it? The grant forced me to make a film!
I came up with an idea that was silly, slept on it, and woke up with an idea that was silly, yet had a beautiful payoff. Goosebumps ensued. I knew I had to make this film.
Pieces continued to fall into place. I ran my idea past Paul and we made some plans to make it happen. He was furiously at work with his own film, giving me the chance to spend a weekend as a Production Assistant. I met Scott Crain and Jen Carsillo during the filming of Paul's TogetHER.
The weekend after, IVAN was filmed.
Jen did an amazing job of pulling extras and locations out of the Louisiana aether. Scott agreed to be the cinematographer.
There were a few hiccups, such as my planned actor, Paul, feeling under the weather and the Louisiana weather deciding to pick this one singular day to unleash thunderstorms and flash floods.
The movie was filmed on July 2nd by a two man crew (Scott Crain and I), with me playing the part of Ivan out of last minute necessity.
Less than 10 days later, thanks to Jeff Miller's Adobe hotline support, I somehow managed to complete the rough cut and submit it to the portal on July 11th!
During the editing process, I discovered a song that was destined to be part of this film, requested licensing, and...
I can't stop thinking of ideas for next year.
Bryan Spellman
July 29, 2022
