BBFF2022 Meet the Filmmaker: Katrina Channells
NOT TO BE
Katrina Channells and writer Joe Hinchliffe bring us a compelling story of an eccentric Shakespearean actor who decides that this performance will be his final curtain call. As a celebration of Byran Nason’s dedication and absolute commitment to theatre.
We had a chat to Katrina Channells about the making of ‘Not To Be’ and her process from the initial story concept to screen and how working with Byron Nason came to create this compelling journey.
Screening at Palace Cinemas Byron Bay
Saturday 29 October at 6:00pm with My Old School
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How did you come to create this story and get it from initial concept to screen?
I met Bryan Nason for the first time in his theatrical home in Brisbane. I met him through family connections. I met him through my partner, Joe who is also the co-writer. We couldn't believe Bryan had never starred in a film. He was extraordinary. Living in his house in Hamilton which was like stepping back in time and on to a theatre set, costumes and masks everywhere. Bryan used to put on one man shows at his house. He'd do the lighting and set the stage and invite his friends to these intimate performances at home. He often ended up naked after throwing his soul into a Montaigne performance. We thought we have to make a film with him. We didn't have a choice. Bryan Nason has given his entire life to the stage. He directed the Queensland Theatre Company’s first production, founded the ground-breaking travelling theatre troupe Grin & Tonic and has been decorated with a UQ Honourary Doctorate and as a Member of the Order of Australia. At 83 years of age, he finally agreed to make his cinematic debut with us in 'Not To Be'. The film is based on a story he told us about wanting his final home performance to be his penultimate and his last. Before the house was eventually sold. 'Not To Be' is fictionalised but based on Bryan's real life.
How has your experience been as an independent filmmaker before and during the making of this film?
I studied a Bachelor of Film and TV at QUT. I freelanced in post for a few years, then started my own production company called Molasses Pictures. Now I work full time as a director/producer working on a variety of projects including shorts, documentaries, VR and content. Joe Hinchliffe is the co-writer/ co-producer and is also my partner. So this is a family project. I was also 7 months pregnant when we shot this film.
As a filmmaker what is your favourite memory you had in the process of creating this film?
When Bryan threw the steel rod at me, that was pretty full on. It's in the credit bloopers. (He didn't mean to throw at me, but it was in my general direction) He was so tired. Bryan is a diva! But we love him.
Why do you think short films are an important medium to explore creativity through?
Shorts are so tough! But they're important. You're often spending a lot of money on them but you need to cut your teeth on shorts so you know what works and what doesn't for long form. I've learnt that anyone can do anything they put their mind to. If an 83 year old fella who has trouble walking can learn lines and star in a film for the first time, then the sky's the limit. Also, having a great team is everything. When shit hits the fan, as it always does, you need a great crew.
Part of the filmmaking process is you will face challenges, how did you overcome these?
The whole crew I originally has lined up had to drop out a week before the shoot because of interstate lockdowns. Luckily I found local crew who were awesome.
The pandemic was brutal. Not being able to plan or plan and then everything would fall apart last minute.
What is next for you in the future?
I have a film premiering at BIFF called Cattle Duff - a true crime documentary about cattle theft. Very different to this film. I love telling all sorts of stories. Joe is a creative writer and a journalist writing for the Guardian full time.
What is your biggest creative influence on your filmmaking style?
I love Pedro Almodóvar's films! The acting, the drama, the female centred stories - there's nothing like it. He's created his own genre in a way.
What is a piece of advice you can give to all aspiring filmmakers?
Enjoy it. Enjoy the process and build a good team around you. Trust your instincts and your voice. Don't give up because you can't control the success of your film you can only control how much you enjoy the process.
BBFF has a really great reputation. It's always been on my bucket list, to have a film screen here. Joe and I are so excited to be accepted!
