MEET THE FILMMAKER: Lewis Leslie.
Lewis Leslie is one of Denver’s most prolific and passionate filmmakers. When he’s not shooting a movie, he’s writing one (or two or three), and recruiting some of Denver’s finest actors and crew to work on his shoots. Despite all that, he still has time to raise a family. He’s both a frequent and welcome contributor to the Emerging Filmmakers Project (EFP).
Lewis’ movie The Monster in the Basement screens January 17th down at The Bug Theatre (3654 Navajo Street) as part of a great line up of movies from local filmmakers.
EFP Host Patrick Sheridan interviewed Lewis back in October when his award-winning movie The Music Box played at the EFP. To check out that interview, click here: http://efpdenver.wordpress.com/2012/10/08/the-music-box/.
Patrick recently caught up with Lewis to introduce him to newcomers to the EFP and to see what he’s working on these days.
P.S.: Why did you become a filmmaker?
L.L.: For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved movies. From E.T. and The Goonies as a kid, to present day films, there’s nothing more amazing than being taken on an adventure of sight and sound that only movies can create. I’ve always loved writing and telling stories. Movies are personally the most enjoyable storytelling format that I’ve found. I hope to be in this business for a really long time.
P.S.: What was the inspiration behind The Monster in the Basement?
L.L.: The Monster in the Basement is the first in a series of five short films by local artists that will comprise the feature-length horror anthology, The Dead Speak Tales.
P.S.: What else are you working on?
L.L.: Under Fire Studios is working on 2 feature films, Amusement Park Massacre and Visceral. These horror/thrillers will be shot in the next year or two. We’re also putting the finishing touches on our first feature Killer Ink, which showcases actor Peter Mayhew, who’s best known for his role as Chewbacca in Star Wars.
P.S.: Tell us one weird thing about you and/or your movies?
L.L.: I like to use famous quotes to set the tone at the beginning of my feature films. For example, Albert Einstein’s “True art is characterized by an irresistible urge in the creative artist.” starts of Killer Ink and Edgar Allen Poe’s “The scariest monsters are the ones that lurk within our souls.” starts off Visceral.
P.S.: Where can people go to find out more about you and your work?
L.L.: I’m all over Facebook, and our production company website is www.underfirestudios.com.
P.S.: Is there anything you’d like to say about The Emerging Filmmakers Project?
L.L.: The EFP is a true blessing to Colorado filmmakers. They give aspiring artists a great venue, and a diverse audience, to showcase their work. I am very grateful to Patrick and the team for this opportunity. Please, come out and support local artists!
P.S.: Thanks, Lewis. It’s always a great pleasure to have you and your films down at the EFP. See you on the 17th!
