THE OLD MAN IN THE ROCKING CHAIR, 20min., USA, Horror
Directed by Eric Yoder
A young abusive house keeper and an elderly man in a rocking chair become involved in a series of mysterious murderous in an isolated mansion.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I have always been a big admirer of 1970's cinema, especially Giallo films made in Italy at that time. I'm attracted to the style, the music, the cinematography, everything. I knew that I wanted to make my own film that was made in that style. That's where the idea was born to do The Old Man in the Rocking Chair.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
From concept, to writing, to shooting, to post was very quick. I was extremely eager to get this idea out on the screen so I would say 2 months from start to finish.

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

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
I would say the shoot, the main house we shot at specifically. Due to budget we only had 4 hours to shoot there, so it was a race to finish what had to be filmed. If it weren't for extensive planning, I don't think we could have pulled it off.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I was very moved and happy. I made the film as an homage to the films I love, so to hear everyone saying they enjoyed it and were entertained was the best compliment I could get. At the end of the day that's what I am inspired to do, to entertain, even if you are unfamiliar with the style or genre. Thank you to everyone who said so many nice things about the short, it motivates me to keep going.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I've always been a fan of films of all kinds since I was a small child. It's the exposure to 1970'/80's horror that awakened a driving force in me. I knew that I had to pursue filmmaking in some way or another. It's something I don't think I could live without.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
The Evil Dead (1981) The film that inspired me to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. That's why I am a SFX makeup artist today.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
I loved the idea of the video reactions. I think that's a great way to motivate someone, feedback. Even if it were negative, I would still want to hear it. I think all forms, positive and negative feedback is good for any filmmaker. I really appreciate your festival for doing that.

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

10. What is your favorite meal?
I'm originally from a small town in the backwoods of Pennsylvania. So probably Meatloaf.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I'm currently working on a feature in the same style of The Old Man in the Rocking Chair. Not the same story but the same style, music, look, ect. Currently in the writing stages and I'm very excited to make this film a reality.