Yell! Magazine had the chance to chat with Boston-based Richard Chandler, the writer, director, and star of the upcoming sci-fi/horror flick Gilgamesh. While he’s currently searching for a distributor for his film, Richard is in post production and hitting the media circuit to build some deserved buzz.
Naturally, we were thrilled to discover that Richard enjoys the quiet repose offered by heavy metal, so we explored how some of that has inspired him. We also discussed boobs, the cerebral qualities of violent video games, and classic literature. Yes, we enjoyed our Scotch and cigars to the fullest.
I jest of course, mostly, but please enjoy the interview and spread the word about Gilgamesh, it’s the type of low-budget affair that should get your nerd-mones (“nerd hormones” – hey, I’m dying over here) in high motion.
Gilgamesh Synopsis:
An expedition in Siberia goes terribly wrong, as a couple of archaeologists accidentally freed the Sumerian goddess of lust and war Inanna from her ancient prison. While Inanna plots to destroy Earth using a giant meteor to collide into the planet, the American president hopes to utilize Inanna as a weapon of mass destruction. However a violent communist takeover of the US government complicates the government’s goal to exploit Inanna. As chaos ensues, the ancient god Gilgamesh ponders whether or not he will act as mankind’s last best hope to save humanity from its rendezvous with annihilation.
You can keep up with Richard Chandler and his Boston Film Family production company on Facebook.
You’ve said in a previous interview that Megadeth helped inspire Gilgamesh. Are you a big metalhead?
Always. And if you haven’t guessed I’m into old-school thrash. The political themes of some of the classic Megadeth songs such as “Holy Wars” and “Hangar 18” have always inspired me to place certain political elements into many of my horror films.
We recently published an article naming our top three Megadeth albums. Would you care to weigh in with your opinion?
My personal favorites would have to be Rust in Peace, Peace Sells, and So Far, So Good, So What!
Megadeth or Metallica?
I get asked this one a lot. I’ll admit there’s a lot of Metallica hate out there for “being sell outs,” but I don’t believe it. I understand some of the things said back in the day when they changed things up stylistically. But in 2014 both bands are awesome. I’d have a hard time choosing one over the
other.
Do you have any other influences outside of movies, such as video games?
Metal Gear Solid and Final Fantasy have always been an early influence for me. Of course, I haven’t owned a system since PS2, so I’m a little outdated in the new stuff. But as a younger guy, I was influenced by games with great plotlines. I’d have to say all-time favorite was Chrono Trigger on SNES. Yeah, I feel old now!
Do you have a favorite horror or violent game/franchise to play?
Violence-wise, I’d have to go with Resident Evil.
I’m guessing since the film’s character Inanna is a Sumerian goddess that you were familiar with the “Epic of Gilgamesh” when you sat down to write the screenplay. How much of that ancient poem was utilized in your story?
Just about none of that poem was used. I’ve been getting calls from all over the world, mainly from guys from the Middle East, asking if we were making the same film. It’s getting funny. When I tell them this is sci-fi and I just like ancient Sumeria, they become very confused.
What’s the best part about making a low-budget movie?
Well, I guess being your own boss. It’s also the worst part of a low-budget movie. So I’m not sure if I have a great answer for this one. Bigger budgets would be welcome at this point!
What was the most challenging aspect in making Gilgamesh?
Probably the timeline and funding. Most money I have to find myself or “earn” myself, which isn’t easy. The film also had scenes in Siberia in the fall/spring, so the shooting schedule was off and on for six months.
After the jump, Richard Chandler talks about bygone frilm eras, his favorite horror movie growing up, and the industry in general…
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