BBFF2023 Meet the Filmmaker: Leslie Brockett
Danger
John’s Robert’s first release of 2023 is a return to pop with his single ‘Danger’, a moody mid-tempo 80’s style bop. The music video offers an exciting landscape filled with pulsating sounds and throbbing rhythm, as well as Robert’s vibrant and signature vocal style that brings the music to life.
We spoke to producer, Leslie Brockett about the process of creating this vibrant music video.
Screening at the Music Video Showcase at the Byron Bay Beach Hotel
Wednesday 25th October at 8:30pm
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How did you come to discover the story in your film?
John Roberts called to see if I would produce this idea for him. He and I know how to tickle each others funny-bone so we had a blast making creative decisions and pulling together this amazing crew.
What elements or aspects of your filmmaking style can audiences expect to see in your film?
My style can be seen in the elements of humour, camp, badass dancing and action. Which made this video really come together in such a fun way.
Have you always wanted to be a filmmaker?
Yes. I have been doing so in some form or another for many years. I love every aspect of it. Writing, directing, editing, producing. I started out as an actor, but felt like it didn't fulfill all my curiosities. So I started exercising other parts of my brain in the other modalities.
Could you share some insights into the teamwork and collaborations that contributed to the success of your film?
Our director, Ned Stressen-Reuter painstakingly brought these concepts to life together with our DP, Jim McGibbon. Combining that with our amazing cast and the comic timing of our editor, Sherri Solinger, there was really made this an outstanding group effort.
Did you face any challenges when making or developing your film and if so how did you over come them?
Figuring out how to get the famous KITT car to do its tricks and break Michael Knight out of jail was a challenge. I think we came up with a good solution.
Could you share a memorable behind-the-scenes moment while filming that you think the audience would find interesting or amusing?
There was all professional comics on set, so the banter was intoxicating. The ad-libbing behind the scenes kept the crew cracking up! That is a movie unto itself...
Have you got any connections to Byron Bay? If not have you got any pre-conceptions about Byron?
I was married to an Australian man who went to college near Byron. He introduced me to your amazing oasis which is why I really wanted to put this project in your festival. I love the surf and open nature of the people there. So blessed to be able to screen ‘Danger’ in one of my favorite places on the planet.
What are you most looking forward to in terms of audience reactions and engagement during your screening?
We hope that the audience will share a laugh together and enjoy the song. Though it is a lighthearted piece, the song is about the danger of our rights being taken away on many levels. It is more important than ever to stand up and fight for what you believe in. Freedom and justice for all!
What advice would you offer to aspiring filmmakers to help them get their films recognised and selected by festivals like BBFF?
Do what you love and the rest will follow.