Sage Drake
Studied filmmaking at the College of San Mateo. The film instructor was Jay Rosenblatt. Learned about cinematography and editing. Director of a twenty-two short films including ABOUT MADDY (official selection Long Island International Film Expo), DYING & TRYING (official selection Independent Shorts Awards), and CHRISTMAS SHIT (official selection Another Hole in the Head Film Festival).
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How did you get into filmmaking?
When I was in high school I wanted to have my own camcorder but in order to make that happen, I took on a summer job at a canery in Oregon and worked at a belt shift sorting corn for 12 hours a day, seven days a week. After high school, I took a film production class at the College of San Mateo. My film instructor was Jay Rosenblatt. I learned a lot about filmmaking and made super 8-millimeter student films.
What was the first film project that you worked on and how did it go?
I made a three minute silent super 8 millimeter black and white film about my grandmother. The students would leave notes for our work and one held my attention "Make more films." I fell in love with editing and it became very addictive.
Which directors have inspired your work?
Many filmmakers inspire me. Terrence Malick, Stanley Kubrick, Akira Kurosawa, Charles Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Alfred Hitchcock, Quentin Tarantino, Hirokazu Koreeda, Kathryn Bigelow, Caroll Ballard. The list goes on forever and ever. Even my filmmaker friends inspire me.
What genre of filmmaking are you looking to create?
It's all about the story. I don't have a specific genre when I make a film because again, it's all about the story. If I like the story and if it feels right, then I am going to create it.
What is the most challenging thing about being an indie filmmaker?
For me, it's finding a very good original story that hooks my interest. Also finding great actors who are talented, experienced, and believable but they also respect you, your vision, and your team.
How many films about the Covid-19 pandemic have you shot and what is your intention for working on this theme?
I directed three COVID-19 theme films so far and right now I'm planning to direct my fourth one. I want to show the world that just because we have a horrible crisis and also experiencing a major set back, doesn't mean you shouldn't stop your art entirely. Life is all about the many ups and downs and art helps inspire us to become better people and storytellers through this.
Why do you make films?
It's something I'm very passionate about. I like setting goals for myself and achieving them. I also feel like I'm making a difference. It's a lot of work that goes into making a really good film but the rewards is fantastic.
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