I had the pleasure of meeting and working with Tara Cardinal about four years ago. I have been following her filmmaking achievements over the years and was super excited to hear that her film, Legend of the Red Reaper, was to be screened at Stan Lee’s Comikaze 2013. I interviewed Tara about her film, what it is like to be an independent filmmaker and what it is like to be a woman in the film industry. Read on to learn more about this epic film and check out some cool behind-the-scenes/promo pictures for the film!
What is ‘Legend of the Red Reaper’?
A an action/adventure/fantasy feature film franchise with a movie, novel and upcoming comic book. Depending on audience reaction I’ll produce sequels to all of the above.
Your project took quite some time to finish, would you elaborate on that please? And what made you stick with the project to its completion?
Independent films are extremely difficult to complete. Typically you’re working with first-timers – people who saw some bts footage on a dvd and think they’re film makers now mixed with film school grads with little real world experience. Everyone is enthusiastic to begin… It takes the right blend of enthusiasm, talent and experience to pull of ANY feature film. But I didn’t make any film. I made an action packed period piece and the majority of my “above of the line” staff were all first times.
Eventually my “above the line” just weren’t up for the challenge, and one by one they fell away. Someone had to save the project, and that someone turned out to be me. I donned the hats of “director” and “producer” and eventually “writer” when a two year delay made the original filming script impossible. I felt strongly that the story was worth saving. I added my own flair to the story, made it more relationship based (the first version went from one fight scene to another but didn’t really explore the relationships or mythology of the story). I added some new characters and added a plot to the fight scenes.
After the new script was done, it was simply a matter of putting the details in place, and in the right order. That was the hardest part. But when you watch the film you’ll see it – stone goblets, hand made leather armour, fight choreography that is logical and easy to follow – none of that handy cam shaky shit for me! I had real fighters that could give and take. You’ll see my ass hit the ground and get back up – you’ll see my FACE too, because I did those stunts. You’ll see real castles, tapestries, and hundreds of weapons.
It takes TIME to make a good movie with that level of production value and a small staff. You can have it good, fast or cheap – but not all three. I sacrificed fast.
How did Uwe Boll get attached to your project and how was he involved with the film?
He came is a sales agent after I completed filming. He didn’t like my post production staff so he cut them loose and brought in his own. They were top notch professionals with A-list films. I was worried that these high end industry professionals would think my film was beneath them – but they didn’t. They were impressed with my tenacity and the sacrifices I went through to complete the film no matter what. They respected me as a professional and accepted my input as a director even when it flew in the face of industry standard. It was a wonderful experience and I’m grateful to Uwe for believing in me – an unproven, first time film maker to make that happen.
Where are you currently with this project?
The book is released in the English language throughout most of the world. The movie is set for release in MAY of 2014 in the US. March 2014 in Germany, and Summer 2014 everywhere else.
How do you think your screening at Comikaze went?
I had tears streaming down my face – as I was afraid would happen (which is why I sat in front – where no one could see my wet face!)
I thought it went great. I was thrilled we had some industry professionals that I really respect and admire. Even Steven Sears (Xena, Warrior Princess Producer) came. He had to leave for a meeting part way through – but I was so honored that he CAME! He’d already seen the film, but he came anyway. That made me all warm and fuzzy inside. You might have noticed from my work I’m something of a Xena fan.
How was having a panel and a screening Comikaze?
Like a dream come true! You work for years on a project, and your friends, family, everyone is telling you: “Give up, it’s not worth it! You’ll never get it finished.” But then you DO get it finished, and Stan Lee’s own convention gives you a PRIME spot at the LA convention center to screen it. I had to keep pinching myself to make sure I didn’t die during filming and now I’m just dreaming about this in heaven or something.
You are a female filmmaker, which is awesome, any advice to female filmmakers out there?
Watch and cover your ass, because if you don’t there will be someone there to watch it for you. Being a female film maker is 10 times harder than a male one. Not everyone in Hollywood is here for the arts. Your best friend will eat you for breakfast over a $5000 film. Half the time that “Business meeting” is actually a date. That’s just the way of the industry right now. Stand your ground, be true to yourself and to your art, and don’t be afraid to fire someone who is under performing.
Did you encounter any difficulties/skepticism because you are a female filmmaker?
Oh constantly. My male business partner continues to get credit for things I did before I ever met him. He doesn’t accept the credit, but people just ASSUME he did things. People seem really confused by the fact that I can edit, color correct, do (some) visual effects AND act. They have this limited view that because I’m actress I couldn’t possibly have any technical skill. And girls don’t edit, apparently. I’m pleased with my editing – especially when it comes to action. As a martial artist, actor and writer, I have a specific way of cutting action that honors all of those hats. But people just assume that Sean does all the editing, even when we do it together. Or when it’s just me.
When will your film be released?
Germany – March 4 2014
USA – May 2014
Everywhere else – Summer 2014
Where can people find more information on the film?
www.facebook.com/legendoftheredreaper
