5 Questions with Mike B. Breen
1) What have you been up to since we last spoke in August of last year?
I'm still acting in a play I wrote about injury attorneys Cellino and Barnes breaking up. It's been fun but it's unfortunately become my entire identity.
2) What’s the backstory - what was the initial idea and how did it evolve from there?
It was an idea that's been kicking around for awhile. The lead, James Dwyer, was in town and I knew I wanted to do something with him while he was here. I was going through some ideas and remembered this one. I didn't really know what would happen once James's character got into the house. Eventually the story became about the stilted way adult men make friends and react to each other's emotions. These guys are really trying to connect but they're totally ill-equipped to do so.
3) What was the biggest challenge in making this film? And generally what part of the creative process do you enjoy the most and the least?
When we shot it was just James, George and me. Directing, running sound, shooting can be overwhelming but at the same time it keeps the stakes so low. And when the stakes are low you'll probably take more chances. Or the thought of asking for favors is terrifying to me. It's one of those two things.
I think I enjoy the writing process the most. It's personal, I can do it at my own pace, and there aren't many limitations or restrictions. I guess the least enjoyable part is the 24 hours leading up to the shoot. There's a ton of doubt on that day but once I'm there and we're rolling, I'm good.
4) What’s a film you’ve seen recently, new or old, that you really loved and why?
I just watched Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa again for probably the twentieth time. It's one of my favorite movies. The protagonist is smart, successful, and wealthy but still so incredibly insecure. Those are my favorite kind of people to watch.
5) What’s next for you?
I'll be working on some bigger, or at least longer, projects with some people I haven't worked with before. I'm going to still make shorts whenever I can. I've been looking for a new pair of jeans too. No luck yet.
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http://mikebbreen.com
IG: @mikebbreen