How did you start this project. How long did it take from the initial idea to have it finished?

The genesis of Say My Name traces back to 2020, amidst the creative process of my first book in a trilogy series, Sleeping Under the Bridge. The book’s publication in 2022 sparked the visualization of my dream to turn book one into a short film adaptation. At the launch event in August 2022, a serendipitous encounter led me to the lead actress who would embody ‘Mel’, setting the wheels in motion. Our 16-day pre-production swiftly transitioned into a 3-day filming endeavor, revisiting locales that echoed my past. By April 2023, not only was the film complete, but it also garnered two international film awards from IndieFest within a fortnight, symbolizing a triumph over adversity and beacon of hope for many.

 

Has it been a self-financed project or did you find private financing?

The film was a self-financed labor of love, initially budgeted at AUD10k but ultimately requiring AUD30k. I’m indebted to majority of the cast and crew, whose generosity and discounted contributions were instrumental in bringing this story to life.

 

Many filmmakers finance the entire project, finishing it in their spare time while studying or working etc. This makes it a very wear-and-tear process and takes a long time to finish. Even many of these projects never end up being assembled. In your case, how has the process been?

The making of Say My Name was a deeply personal odyssey, marked by a confluence of life-altering events. Amidst the backdrop of a high-profile court case addressing my military past and my commitment to mental health advocacy, the project demanded every ounce of my resilience. The podcast shows I host had to be paused, and in the whirlwind of production, I faced the heart-wrenching loss of my “adopted” dad to cancer. His absence was a silent presence during the film’s completion. It wasn’t until July 2023 that I allowed myself the space to mourn. This film is not just a narrative; it’s a tapestry of my life’s most intense moments.

 

At what point is the project in terms of festivals? Tell us a little about your experience in festivals and what you expect from festivals for this project.

Say My Name has made a remarkable splash in the festival scene, with an entry into approximately 100 festivals and an impressive 70% win rate, amassing so far 55 international film awards. Despite initial setbacks at major festivals, a strategic pivot to advertise through FilmFreeway opened doors, leading to a cascade of personal invitations with discounts. The thrill of daily selections and awards was exhilarating, yet deciding when to cease submission was challenging. While the film has enjoyed screenings in cities like L.A., New York, Chicago, Sweden and Italy, the hope remains for a hometown showcase in Sydney. The festival journey has been about more than just winning; it’s about sharing the film and global audiences, a goal that continues to drive the project forward.   

 

Tell us the best moment and the worst experienced during the process of finishing the project.

The pinnacle of creating Say My Name was witnessing the pieces fall into place as if by destiny. The right collaborators emerged at crucial moments, and resources aligned perfectly with our needs. One memorable triumph was securing a coveted artistic location, a free offering from the artist who had knocked back previous attempts of filming, a testament to the project’s spirit.

 

Conversely, the worst moment was a tumultuous period that threatened the film’s completion. Without delving into specifics, it was a testament to the team’s perseverance and my collective resolve to bring things together. These experiences, particularly a last-minute hurdle on the final day of shooting, underscored my dedication to a story I believe has the power to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.    

 

Do you have any other project in mind? If so, can you tell us something?

My current aspiration is to adapt my book trilogy into a feature film series that captures the essence of resilience and empowerment in the face of adversity. This cinematic journey, spanning five continents, will delve into uncharted narrative territories, portraying the raw and real challenges of abuse, homelessness, and violence. From the harrowing experiences of my childhood (depicted in Say My Name) to the perils I faced in Papua New Guinea, Bangladesh, the Congo-Zambia border, Indonesia and serving in the police and military, each moment has shaped my resolve. These stories are not just mine; they reflect the struggles and triumphs of many. It’s a saga that I believe will not only captivate but also inspire viewers globally, offering a pillar of strength to those who have faced similar battles.

 

What do you expect from a film festival? Where do you think they should improve?

Communication is paramount in film festivals. It’s disheartening when festivals fail to engage, leaving filmmakers in the dark or making silent changes on platforms like FilmFreeway. Screenings are the heart of these events, and it’s concerning that some film festivals hand out awards without showcasing any films, even going as far as emailing out official selections to films they have never seen. Such practices not only feel like a disservice but actively undermine the indie film community, belittling the hard work of filmmakers and the very purpose of festivals as platforms for genuine artistic expression and recognition. Moreover, timely notifications about selections and awards are crucial for planning attendance, especially for international participants. The essence of film festivals lies in the community and shared experiences – watching films together, networking, and celebrating cinema. When these elements are missing, it detracts from the festival’s purpose and the filmmaker’s journey. Festivals should strive to uphold these core values to truly support and elevate the art of filmmaking.

 

Now we would like to know more about you.

 

How did you start in the cinema?

After serving in the Royal Australian Navy, I found my next calling in cinema. My journey began with a role in The Healing (2022), a documentary showcasing a welfare program for veterans and ex-racehorses battling PTSD. Director Nick Barkla recognized my potential and brought me on board as an associate producer in 2019. My experiences, from overcoming homelessness after being medically discharged to publishing my fourth book ‘Painting Beauty with the Ashes’, inspired me to support the equine program and contribute to the film’s completion. Under Nick’s mentorship, I honed my filmmaking skills, which culminated in the creation and production of my own short film Say My Name.

 

How do you define yourself as a filmmaker? Your best virtue and your worst flaw?

As an award-winning filmmaker, my essence is deeply rooted in my past. The solitude and challenges of my childhood forged my artistic expression. By the age of 7, I found solace in teaching myself the piano, and by 9, I was delving into storytelling through my first book. My first casting at 12 as the lead male in a Shakespeare play and writing my first feature film script at 26 were the beginning of a lifelong literary journey. To date, I have published five books, with three more forthcoming, each a testament to inspiration and transformation. Collaborating with Rhoyce Nova on the Say My Name script was a synergistic experience that enriched the film beyond my solitary vision.

 

My life’s purpose has been to inspire and empower adults who have gone through trauma. However, this drive sometimes overshadows my self-care. My virtues lie in being an empath, visualizing the big picture but also delving into the details. This allows me to perceive the world in all its layers and dimensions – though it can be as draining as it is rewarding. Storytelling is my conduit for change, and I’m constantly engaged in projects that align with this calling. My flaw is a tendency toward boredom; I thrive on innovation and must set aside projects that no longer offer room for creative growth.

 

What percentage do you dedicate to?

My leadership philosophy centers on empowering my team to leverage their unique skills and perspectives. This approach involves dedicating significant time to establishing a solid foundation, allowing for creative freedom within the project’s framework. I prioritize open communication and actively seek input from my cast and crew, fostering an environment where the best ideas can flourish.

-Production/location: 35%

-Work with actors 5%

-Planning of the shots with the director of photography: 3% 

-Art/costume: 2%

-Sound design: 20%

-Editing: 25%

-Soundtrack: 10%

 

Tell me three favorite movies

1. Leave the World Behind (2023)

2. Children of Men (2006)

3. The Greatest Escape (1963)

 

It is extremely hard to pinpoint my best three, but I feel from the dystopian insights of Children of Men to the classic adventure of The Greatest Escape, and the contemporary narrative of Leave the World Behind, reflect a broad and deep appreciation I have for film.

 

And directors?

Sam Esmail

Jane Campion

The Wachowskis

Steven Spielberg

Peter Jackson

 

The directors I admire, Sam Esmail’s innovative storytelling, Jane Campion’s nuanced character studies, The Wachowskis’ groundbreaking visuals, Steven Spielberg’s legendary filmmaking, and Peter Jackson’s epic scale of storytelling, each bring a unique vision to the world of cinema. It’s a rich tapestry of cinematic excellence.

 

For you, a good movie should have:

A great film, to me, possesses depth and the ability to captivate within the first twenty minutes. Once it has my attention, I want to unravel mysteries and explore the characters’ stories. Rather than spoon-feeding answers, I appreciate films that allow room for interpretation, leaving their resonance lingering in my mind for days. That, to me, defines greatness in cinema.

 

 

Dr Mel Baker

Award-winning filmmaker and writer

Author & International Speaker

Producer & co-writer of Say My Name