This week’s NewFilmmakersLA Spotlight is on Writer and Producer Alex Hunter of the short film, No Beers for Bradley. Get to know Hunter’s work, learn about the latest project, inspirations and catch a few tips for filmmakers just starting out.
Tell us a little bit about your project and how long you’ve been working on it.
NBFB was a sort of intervention for my roommate (and star of the short), Brad. He came home one night, hammered drunk, and began to share a story with me of how he told a store to, as he put it, “fuck off,” for not allowing him to buy more alcohol. He thought it was the coolest thing he had ever done. I did not. The rest of the night I, like the store, did not allow him to drink, constantly repeating “No…no beers for Bradley.” I then told him that I was going to write a children’s book about him the next day. Brad would soon pass out and I would finish the book that night. 24 locations and a year later, here we are with a fun little short.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank for helping out with this film?
I would like to thank Cal State Fullerton, for allowing Brad to find his true passion. Boozing.
What inspires you?
Persistence. Someone who decides on what they want and they go for it. Failing can happen, but if you never try, you’ll never know how many STD’s you can accumulate. Wait, what was the question?
Who are your influences and who do you admire?
On a real, I admire anyone who came from nothing. There is something to be said about those who work their way up through talent and passion. I think the director of “Glitter” made it this way. Come to think of it, I admire people who didn’t direct “Glitter.”
What lessons have you learned from the industry so far?
I’ve learned that you need a good support system. Find your special group of friends that bring out the best in you. NOTE: This group should always include one hot female or the group will not succeed.
If you could collaborate with anybody, who would it be?
My heroes are Trey Parker and Matt Stone. I feel like they capture the essence of society in a half an hour cartoon and that’s how I like to watch my news.
What is the toughest experience you’ve ever had to overcome?
Becoming a father forced me to grow up much faster than I had expected, as you can tell from this interview. I have matured a lot. Scary.
What is the best piece of advice someone has given to you?
Don’t be a dick.
What advice would you give to new filmmakers starting out in the industry?
Work hard and do it for as long as you love to do it. Persistence is key in this industry. And…Don’t be a dick!
Where can we expect to see you next?
Oddly enough, we have a screening of “No Beers For Bradley” at the New Filmmakers Film Festival on the 11th of May. You should come out!
Let our readers know where they can find more information about you and your projects.
inkybird.net
Twitter: @alexhunter123 (got real creative with that one)
Instagram: lebowski818
Anything else you’d like to add?
I would like to thank Disarray Magazine and NewFilmmakers for allowing me to act a fool all up in this questionnaire.
Formerly an editor at Demand Media, writer at Citysearch, The Examiner and proofreader at The Los Angeles Daily News, Christy Buena decided to start Disarray Magazine because she missed writing what she wanted. From hiring writers, to contacting publicists and making assignments, Christy is responsible for the editorial strategy of Disarray Magazine. Get to know the team of talented contributors.
Follow Twitter.com/ChristyBuena