Damien and Natalie LeVeck are the masterminds behind the film, A Creature Was Stirring. The film is a holiday horror that explores topics such as secrets, guilt, and mental illness. We had the honor of interviewing each filmmaker separately in the past. Now, this married duo is back to discuss all things production, including planning, shooting, and distributing.

In today’s episode, No Film School’s GG Hawkins speaks with director Damien LeVeck and producer Natalie LeVeck to discuss:

Shooting a winter-themed film in the middle of a very hot summer
Using expensive, concert style lasers in the film
Surrounding yourself with a production team you trust
Saying “no” while trying to find a middle ground
Being married and working together - what is that like?
The biggest on set challenge that ended up working out for the better
How having editing experience can become a director’s super power
Why you should make your own press kit and what to include in it
Posting pictures before your film is purchased by a distributor
What makes this horror film unique

Memorable Quotes

“You really need to know what hills you will die on. And what sacrifices are you willing to make.” [6:31]
“Making any independent film is going to be harder than pretty much anything you ever do in your life.” [12:44]
“Movies don’t want to be made.” [13:07]
“You’re not directing to find it in the edit. You’re directing to get the edit you have in your mind.” [19:48]
“The horror movie fans are some of the best fans out there.” [21:07]

Mentioned:

A Creature was Stirring

Natalie's LinkedIn

Natalie's on Instagram

Damien’s Instagram

Top Legal Mistakes Filmmakers Make and How To Avoid Them

Piloting Real-Time Post-Collab on Damien LeVeck’s Holiday Horror

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