THE DAYS OF KNIGHT, 9min., USA
Directed by John P Martinez
A highly trained operative, belonging to a clandestine ancient group of expert mercenaries, is given a mission to recover a valuable item for one of the 13 most influential families on Earth. As war breaks out and alliances formed centuries ago crumble, survival becomes the top priority for everyone involved.

https://www.instagram.com/1018filmsaz/

Get to know the filmmkaer:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

This was on my bucket list of things to accomplish. I always wanted to create a short film and decide to just do it! I should have done this long ago...

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

From the idea to the finish product it took 4-5 months to complete this film.

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

Absolute craziness!

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

Just educating myself on how to be a filmmaker. I took numerous tutorials on filmmaking, color grading, special effects, music, write a script and cinematogrphy. After three months of tutorials, I started writing a script and two months later I was filming "The Days of Knight:Chapter 3". That was pretty tough!

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

It was a fanatastic experience seeing their reaction. I was stunned, speechless and amazed.

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

I wanted to go to film school after high school but I didn't have the grades to get into the program. I always wanted to make a film and I just decided to go for it and do it! I wish I started a lot sooner!

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

My favorite film is "The Thing" directed by John Carpenter. It's the perfect movie: horror / drama / mystery / suspense. It's cinema gold!

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 truly appreciate the opportunity to just participate. Winning an award is like winning a gold medal in the Olympics. I am taken aback by the talent and creativity of these amazing filmmakers around the world. It's pretty remarkable to be participating in festivals with them. The Crime Mystery Festival is truly unique. I haven't seen a festival like this and I have competed in over 250 film festivals. You all are onto something great! I truly appreciate the support with showcasing case our/my film(s). I think it would be great to chat with the winners and find out their thoughts on these 10 questions. That would be fun and so interesting. Honestly...just learning more about how other filmmakers go about making their films and what the mindset of the festival judges while they are viewing all of these films for consideration. Here everyone's subjective responses would be so educational.

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

FilmFreeway is a blessing! I have had a beyond positive experience. I love everything about this platform.

10. What is your favorite meal?

Buffalo Wings! Hot ones!

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

I'm almost 80% done with my next short film. It's a prequel to "The Days of Knight: Chapter 3". We'll find out how "Knight" became a "Knight".