BLUEBERRIES, 24min., USA
Directed by Eric A. Eisenstein
Terrance needs to convince his fiancé, family and friends he does not have a drinking problem. But can he convince himself?

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

The motivation for this film was pretty simple. As of this writing I am 345 days sober. I was always the "fun drunk" who thought everyone laughed at everything I said, when in reality i was obnoxious and a know it all. I knew i was spiraling down a dangerously stupid path. Finally I made the decision enough was enough and headed to Florida for a month of rehab. When I came home, I was changed...for the better...but changed. What I didnt realize at the time was how the necessary changes would effect those around me. As it turns out, there were people close to me that liked drunk Eric better, and I wanted to explore that with this film. Along with writer/actor Josh James, I put the story in the context of a young couple who's future is in jeopardy becasue of all the changes in the character's life, as opposed to making it about a sixty eight year old man who has already done plenty(me)..

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

This film was originally made for a forty day festival, so from idea to finished product was pretty much forty days.

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

Thought provoking ( i know thats a cliche', but thats the hope)

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

The biggest obstacle we faced was that the prssure would have me drinking again (thats a joke:) Actually, thanks to good planning this film was basically obstacle- free and quite a fun shoot. The only obstacles really were the restraints of a forty day festival, such as scheduling and time restrictions on different elements such as editing.

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

My initial reactions was that people GOT IT, which is always a big fear, that people will say "what the hell did I just watch."

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

I ALWAYS wanted to make films. Unfortunately i was sidelined by a forty year career as a television cameraman and director. Now in retirement from TV I can spend my time telling fun, meaningful narratives such as BLUEBERRIESS.

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

The original 60's "Planet of the Apes" with Charlton Heston in all likelihood . The chase through the " museum" with its surprise climax and of course the ending of the movie is an all time classic.

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 love the interactive-ness and communication of this particular festival. The audience feedback is a fantastic plus.

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

FlimFreeway has been a revelation to say the least. It opned up a whole world I did not know existed.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Favorie meal. A big old Porterhouse steak.

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

I just finished principal shooting on my next film, entitled LOUSely Based. It's based on a true story of a 31 Year old man with Asperger's Disease that wants to be an actor. People will hopefully find it heartwarming and a mix of comedy and drama similar to BLUEBERRIES. We have two more shooting days in early 2025 then off to the editing races. My goal is to make one film a year that sends messages of hope and positivity. spend the rest of the year watching my grandkids grow and traveling the world