Dutch Marich

2018-07-01 12:00

SHRIEKFEST INTERVIEW

Dutch Marich

Writer/Director

2015 Official Selection "Hunting"

Dutch Marich

What is your name, company name, and URL?

Hello! My name is Dutch Marich and my production company is called "Luminol Entertainment" Our website is getting a facelift at the moment.

What is your specialty: filmmaking or screenwriting? If filmmaking, which aspects?

I guess you could say both? I've made four feature films (all within the horror/thriller genre) and have written, directed and edited all of them. I have only worked with a DP on one of my movies and I found myself constantly wanting to grab the camera. Not because I didn't trust my DP, but because I tend to be a bit of a control freak.

LOL, sounds familiar! 🙂 What are you currently working on?

Right now I am in post-production on my latest film "INFERNUM." I don't want to give away too much, but I will say that it's inspired by the real-life phenomena collectively referred to as "The Hum" and that the majority of it takes place on a train.

Wow! That sounds cool! I can't wait! Who do you consider your mentor and why?

Hmm. Great Question! I've honestly never thought about that. I'm fortunate enough to have several industry friends in my life who I can turn to for guidance and advice. When it comes to a "mentor" I'm going to have to say....the internet! My main education is in performing arts, not filmmaking. I studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and after I graduated I realized that my real passion was in TELLING the story...writing it..directing it..all of it. So I started teaching myself. Reading every book I could on indie filmmaking and PRACTICING with a camera and my actor friends. I'm a big believer of just going for it and learning from experience.

I love that! I always say you don't have to go to filmmaking school. Why do you think the horror/sci-fi genres have such a large following?

Because they are a blast! Who doesn't love being scared? It's a special thing when you find a film that truly scares or thrills you....that you can watch from the safety of your own living room or a movie theater. It's pure dopamine.

LOL very true! What do you love most about this business?

Finding talented people and working with them. It is so rewarding and fulfilling when you find good, talented people who help bring your work to life and give it a heart beat.

That is so very true! What do you dislike most about this business?

Oh man. Losing friends. Unfortunately, this is a very competitive business and there are people out there who don't want to see you succeed. Avoid those people.

That is so sad! yes, avoid those people! What career accomplishment are you most proud of?

I honestly always wanted to have a movie in SHRIEKFEST. When I first started making movies, I read about Shriekfest and made it a personal goal of mine to get a film into the festival. Years later, when I got the phone call that HUNTING was an official selection, I almost jumped out of my skin.

Awww, I love that! I loved making that call! Any advice you'd like to give to newbies?

Story is King. Not the latest, most expensive equipment. Work work work. Practice practice practice. You don't need a ton of money to make your first movie. Don't listen to people who tell you that you do. Surround yourself with people who you want to work with that inspire you. Also..when you get to a point where you can hire cast and crew and pay people....CHECK THOSE REFERENCES because the last thing you want to end up with is a nightmare of a person on set.

Great advice! I can't tell you how many people don't bother with the references! Anything else you'd like to say?

I love Shriekfest and you, Denise! You make such a positive mark on so many peoples lives and bring fresh, new horror to the table continually. THANK YOU! Oh, and please follow my two upcoming films @miserablesinnersmovie @infernumthemovie

Awww, I love you too Dutch! Keep doing what you are doing because it's great stuff! It was fun chatting!