‘Home’ is an official selection for our 2020 festival. We chatted with Jahvis Loveday, Alysse Burford and Joy Ben Hur.
What was the inspiration behind ‘Home’?
Answered by Alysse Burford - co-writer/lead actress.
The inspiration behind the making of ‘Home’ actually came about when our high school photography teacher asked us to submit a last-minute entry into the school’s annual short film festival. Having just graduated, and getting ready to embark on our separate journeys, I think we could all feel a huge change coming. We immediately knew we wanted to capture that feeling in ‘Home’, as it was something so personal to us at the time, and something so many people can relate to.
What did you learn from making the experience?
Answered by Joy Ben Hur - co-writer/director
If there is anything this film has taught me it’s the power of simplicity. I’ve found it’s so easy as a filmmaker to get wrapped up in big ideas that the core message often gets lost in translation. This film reminded me of the strength a universal experience can have when told through an honest and raw perspective. After releasing the film, it became clear that what viewers loved most was how much the main character made them feel understood, as she reflected the often contradicting feelings we all have towards new beginnings. ‘Home’ taught me that you don’t need a complex plot or a huge crew, but one camera and a message that allows us to feel more connected and understood to ourselves and the world around us.
How has the film been received?
Answered by Alysse Burford, co-writer/lead actress.
Home has been very well received by a huge range of people, which is more than we ever could have hoped for. I think this is because the feeling of change, and leaving home for the first time is so universal - it is something almost everyone has or will experience during their lifetime. I also think that the timing of us making Home was perfect, and has a lot to do with its success. Since we were getting ready to leave home ourselves, we were able to capture exactly how we were feeling at that moment in time and condense it into a short, two minute, slice of life film. This all resulted in a very honest and personal creation that audiences can easily connect to.
What do you love the most about the filmmaking process?
Answered by Joy Ben Hur - co-writer/director
My favourite part of the filmmaking process would have to be editing. It’s the point in which I personally feel I have the most control and clarity within the creative process. As a visual person, I always have the whole film already playing in my head before starting, so I love finally getting to see how the real film compares to my original vision. Sometimes it’s disappointing and sometimes it’s thrilling, but no matter the outcome, editing is where the mystery gets to be unravelled and I learn what worked and what needs to be improved for next time.
What is your advice to filmmakers making their debut short film?
Answered by Jahvis Loveday - co-writer/director
My advice to people collaborating in making a film, just enjoy the experience, take it easy, don’t over-stress yourself. The biggest thing I have learnt from this film is you don’t need a huge idea with a bunch of expensive lights and cameras and mics, you just need an idea that is close to your heart. As fun as it is making a film with lots of equipment, just keep in mind you can always find a way without all that stuff. We used one camera and a $30 LED light, that’s it.
What are you up to next?
Answered by Jahvis Loveday - co-writer/director
Currently, I’m finishing up my bachelor of film, which to be honest was not needed. I believe university is a great tool and works great with some people, but if you are a self-directed learner, there’s not much it can give you then you can’t find yourself. I’ve made a few more short films, and over time slowly realise that the best way to come up with a film, is to write what you know, write from your own experience.
I’m in the works of making my capstone film “Buma” , meaning community in my indigenous language here in Australia. It’s a film about my family and community, and the fear of losing them that comes when you’re away from them for so long. So kind of like a ‘Home 2’.
After I complete my course, I’m travelling across the other side of the country, filming whatever I come across! It’s time for me to get out there, explore the land, and take in the world at my own pace.
Comments