Mario Telles | Interview | TIFF
TIFF : Who are your biggest filmmaking influences?
Mario : Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, Marshall Adams, Vince Gilligan.
TIFF : How do you develop your characters?
Mario : The characters have to be doing something that can tie them all together. They have to have goals they can achieve. I'm through with heartbreaking for right now, probably ever. Like to sit and write something emotional or moving right now would be a step away from the fun problem solving I like telling. Achieve greatness together.
TIFF : How has the film industry changed since you started?
Mario : It hasn't really. The trends in story telling aren't things I like to follow. Pop culture has since been in a waiting room of sorts from what to do next, and I am helping shape the new wave of writing by being broad and bold. Don't bring it back. Once it's gone, it's gone.
TIFF : How important is the script to you in the filmmaking process?
Mario : The script is very important brcause it is the end all be all of what we're doing as filmmakers. No one can change that. Not even with proper clearance. I'm serious and joking. The script is the referance section of the story. Winging it is fun, but I like to know where I'm going.
TIFF : How do you see the role of film in society?
Mario : Film in society is like the show flyer for the show. Here' s whats going on, won't you join us kind of thing. It is dire. It is needed. It is so loved.
TIFF : What is your style of directing?
Mario : Tell the story by letting the story come to life. Don't force anything on to the performance and let life happen with a little bit of help from the script.
TIFF : How do you handle conflicts or disagreements within the team?
Mario : My team works together. I cry when people I care about can't get it together and collaborate and work together. Waste nothing including people and time. Be a team and shine together.
TIFF : How do you approach filmmaking on a limited budget?
Mario : Get the story out first, then worry about money later. Too easy to slip and fall with a ton of money to catch you. Be a story teller.
TIFF : What kind of impact do you hope to make with your films? How do you measure success?
Mario : I hope my films can inspire the poor to be rich and the rich to be wise and the wise to be caring. If it happens we'll know. If not, we got to tell some fun stories.
Independent filmmaking often involves taking risks.
TIFF : How do you balance risk and reward?
Mario : I give each and every piece I do my best. I can never let myself down. I am already happy. I am here talking with you. See the good in everything. Life matters that way.
