MECHANICAL THEOLOGY, 4min., USA
Directed by Andrew Montiveo
An immigrant's meditation on the joy, pain, and uncertainty that goes into resurrecting old motorcycles and searching for the American Dream.

https://www.instagram.com/countofmontyveo/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

I had two motivations. First, I knew the subject, Paschoal, very well and was used to his meditations on his craft. He had a story worth telling, a voice worth hearing. Second, I knew of the growing dilemma about the lack of skilled engineers and technicians in America. It's a problem that worsens with every generation. My co-producer on this project, TJ Norum, is an educator. We both wanted to film an authentic story to inspire people of all generations to appreciate the craft and effort that goes into auto/moto engineering and restoration. We knew Paschoal, a man subtle yet passionate, was the perfect articulator of that appreciation.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

This was a side-project, one we chipped at when we could free ourselves from full-time careers. I'd say it took us four months from concept to post-production.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

Intimately humble.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

Cynicism. I received compliments for the film, but I also faced cynicism from those same parties. The attitude I kept encountering: "This is a nice story, but it won't change anything. Folks don't want to learn or work." It saddens me that there's a lack of hope from many moto enthusiasts and industry pros. Sure, the film is somber, but it ends with a hint of optimism.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

It left me with a smile on my face. I loved hearing the praise of Paschoal's words and our cinematographer Ian's work. I must tell you: These two people are treasures who deserve more adulation than they receive. Ian is an artist. Paschoal is a sage. Both would find my characterizations appalling. But those characterizations stand nonetheless.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

I realized it the summer before I started high school. Though a native Angelino, I was living in the Mid-Atlantic and visited family in Los Angeles. I spent that summer visiting the movie theater, absorbed in one movie after another. The epiphany hit me: There is no richer form of storytelling than the motion picture.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

Ernest Scared Stupid.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

Only to remember this story.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

Convenient.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Kahlua ice cream.

11. What is next for you? A new film?

Paschoal came away from this project determined to share his craft and passion with others. He's a cherished friend, so I will help him however I can. He's starting a TikTok and Instagram channel under the name "The Moto Maestro." He wants to empower people through simple maintenance tips. He's also looking at hosting in-person lessons. He's really--for lack of a better word--driven.

Besides that, I would like to film on another endangered form. I want to chronicle one of Los Angeles's historic theaters still showing old films on 35mm. What comes alive within a projectionist when the projector starts, the reels turn, and the light bursts forth to the distant white screen? That's what I want to answer. That's what I want to share.