Independent filmgroup Torrid Productions has a new trailer out for a new shortfilm on its way to this year’s film festival circuit, and not without a sense of intrigue. The shortfilm is titled Agent 6, and I first learned about this project a couple of months ago through actress Bridger Anne Fox who shot her fight scene in the course of one weekend.
In my recent dialogue with Bridger, she spoke highly of the project, as well as co-star Pierre Parker, and director, Desciple. “We were just having fun and the fights were choreographed on the spot. I had never worked with Pierre Parker before, but we had some great fight chemistry.” Bridger also enthused that Agent 6 was the best unscripted, guerrilla-style action project she has ever worked on, adding, “[Desciple] and Pierre Parker were brilliant leaders/directors/collaborative coordinators. The fight turned out great because they treated me as an equal and actually wanted my input.”
I finally got to see this trailer after it had already been online for a couple of months now since its first teaser was released in April, which was also a surprise to me. The concept of guerrilla filmmaking isn’t old, but it is worth discussing as it brings an interesting new look on how a filmmaker like Desciple creates what he calls a “dysfunctional”,”hyper reality” action film. As far as “dysfunctional” action filmmaking goes, take with it whatever defintion you will, because it pretty much means exactly what Desciple says it is. No script, no pre-production and just plain fun.
Agent 6 Trailer
He explains it all and more in my recent e-mail interview with him, which you can view below.
Film Combat Syndicate: What brought about the concept for Agent 6 story?
Desciple: Myself, as well as most of the filmmakers, are from the disciplined filmmaker 101 background that most professionals require on their sets. This was an opportunity to have fun by breaking the rules and get back to the “FUN” of just getting together with your friends and making a “Run and Gun” movie which is very similar to the mindset of 48 hour film festival.
FCSyndicate: Describe “Hyper-Reality” action film making. Is this a first for you?
D: Hyper-Reality is a concept I invented to counteract to many of the reality shows that has taken over the industry. There was NO SCRIPT! Who ever showed up was in the film. The story developed as we were filming. The only pre conceived notion was that the idea was of an assassin was going to use his mental health benefits from his job.
FCSyndicate: How long did shooting take?
D: Principle photography took place on 2 Sundays during the day because that was the only time we had access to my buddy’s work office.
FCSyndicate: And what were some of the challenges that you and the cast and crew endured?
D: No one knew, not even me, what was going to happen. Mainly, the challenge was to get it done quickly before people got restless.
FCSyndicate: Are you a big fan of improvisational acting?
D: Am a big fan when it’s effective. I tend to cast people who are naturally born characters. It’s easier for them to make their own personalities bigger than life opposed to having to read for a part of a character they are not familiar with.
FCSyndicate: And are there any benefits to creating on the spot?
D: The answer is yes. I try not to take things too serious because i’ve spent too much time taking this business way too serious.
FCSyndicate: Speaking on choreography, what kind of action can fans expect from a “dysfunctional” action short film?
D: Nothing was storyboarded or rehearsed. As real martial artists, the actors were able to let their hair down and fight as if there was no set choreography. Everything was on spot.
FCSyndicate: Considering the liberties you took in making this type of film, are there any hilarious moments you can remember while filming?
D: We all laughed the whole time. No pressures of being serious.
FCSyndicate: Were there any injuries?
D: No….luckily
FCSyndicate: What is it you love most about action movies? Any favorites?
D: It’s an art form that is very visual and emotional. It’s a physical story. I love Woo Ping choreography.
FCSyndicate: Where can film festival goers catch Agent 6 from here on out?
D: SHortz! in Chico – ACTION ON FILM in So. Cali. More screenings coming.
FCSyndicate: What are some other projects you’re currently working on?
D: A concept of a crack head and a heroine addict who stumble upon a child pornography ring and they decide to become heroes without getting busted.
FCSyndicate: Any advice for other aspiring independent filmmakers out here?
D: Jump in! Finish what you’ve started. Your cast and crew will thank you. Don’t worry about getting the latest camera out there because it will be outdated in a few months. Just keep making product and watch your talent, style and efficiency develop.
Most importantly, NEVER BURN ANY BRIDGES…cuz you’ll never know….you’ll never know.
I want to thank Desciple for taking share this dialogue with me, and for sharing his work with me this week.
Stay tuned for more news about Desciple and his future projects. For more info about Torrid Productions, visit their official website. To learn more about Bridger Anne Fox, check out her official website at bridgerfox.com. More details can be found at her official Stunt People bio page.
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