Merrin - Doom Cinema update

Well, we've certainly had our fare share of problems with this shoot, but we're still just about on track for getting it finished since it's initial release date was delayed.
Of the many problems we've faced, it's casting that's proven to be the biggest hurdle to overcome.
Let down not once, but twice by leading actors - I had to step into the fold as a performer in one of the films and drastically re-write another. It's a real shame when things like this need to be done, and it's not the first time. Obviously, the biggest problem this causes is distracting me from the job at hand - directing.

As such, I've been a little unhappy with some of the shots, especially in the third part of the film. Also, as I couldn't behind my camera, most of the footage was eventually captured on my second unit camera which wasn't a film camera, it's DSLR which only produces footage that can be used on certain editing software's which are far out of my humble, unpaid price range. As such, I've wasted a good month trying to edit the film at a painfully slow pace before it crashes and destroys the entire project. (This has happened three times already, forcing me to start again from the beginning)

Anyway, problems and creative compromises aside, the film is looking alright and initial screenings have been overwhelmingly positive towards it's dark, tongue in cheek tone.
Is it good enough to be released? Probably not.
But the learning curve has given me a better idea of how to put a project like this together. As always, the solutions are strongly in favour of downsizing the entire crew/cast to a few dedicated people.

What I have learned is that you simply can't control people who aren't fully invested in your project.
And if your crew hasn't invested in your project then you can't control the quality of the final product.

A harsh lesson.

The premiere show is at the end of April and it will receive a small number of screenings.