FAQ

Q: Do you really do everything (shoot, edit, etc) yourself? What’s up with that?

A: Although I’ve collaborated with many great folks in the past, the way I like to work now is to write, direct, shoot, edit, score, vfx, color and mix myself. Partly it’s because of my background as an artist, musician and writer as well as a busy freelancer working in film for over ten years. And on the other hand, I’m an obsessive tinkerer and learner by nature, so part of the fun of making things is indulging that part of myself. But it’s also thanks to the great performers that I work with that I’m really able to do what I do. Nobody really does this stuff alone.

Q: Where do your ideas come from?

A: I think any good idea is essentially a snapshot of one’s point of view on the world. Some people might have a dramatic point of view. Mine happens to be kinda weird and funny.

Q: What gear do you use?

A: All of the first-person videos are shot on my iPhone 12 Pro. I edit them in davinci resolve. I record all the voice over and sound effects with my phone as well, using the voice notes app. So yeah the phone is pretty handy.

When I work with actors I use a Sony a7siii paired with a Tamron 28-75 f2.8 lens. I use almost always just one light, the Aputure 300x with a lantern attachment. For sound I use the rode wireless pro system with Sennheiser lav mics in rubber bumblebee housings (to reduce clothing rustle).

Q: Who are your favorite filmmakers?

A: I like David Wain, Monty Python, Sidney Lumet, Krzysztof Kieślowski and Robert Rodriguez. But in no particular order, I am obsessed with Jim Hall, Al Hirschfeld, Andrew Wyeth, Sonny Rollins, Raymond Carver, Keith Jarrett, The Beatles, Neil Young, Kafka and John Singer Sargent.

Q: You do a lot of VFX? Like, are you super interested in that stuff?

A: We live in an era of filmmaking where visual effects are really becoming an essential tool, because of how much they enable you to work. Even knowing the basics is very empowering because you can fix things, add things easily and be a more efficient creator. I also think visual effects techniques like compositing, green screen, masking, and 3D software can all inspire ideas, just like watching TV, or reading a book.

Q: What advice would you give a young filmmaker?

A: Just be yourself. And if you don’t know what that is yet, you’re not alone, because most people are just figuring that stuff out too. So while you figure that out, learn as much as you can about filmmaking. Edit, shoot, make mistakes, and never discount the value of making a terrible short film. Those things are great teachers.

Q: How can I contact you for collaboration/questions/jokes?

A: Feel free to DM me on my instagram, or email me at darin@darinquan.com.