GETTING READY FOR INDEPENDENT FILM WEEK – RADIO UNNAMEABLE
We are NYC-based filmmakers Paul Lovelace and Jessica Wolfson. This week we will have the opportunity to showcase our new project Radio Unnameable at Independent Film Week in the Spotlight on Documentaries section. We have both participated in IFW in the past. Paul had a feature length documentary The Holy Modal Rounders… Bound to Lose at IFW in 2006. Jessica produced the 2007 entry A Girl And A Gun and has also been on the other side as a distributor, with her former position at IFC Original Programming. This looks to be an altogether different experience, and we can’t wait to get started.
Our film tells the story of radio personality Bob Fass, who revolutionized the New York City airwaves on his long running program Radio Unnameable (watch our trailer below). Since the early 1960s, Fass has showcased live music and major cultural figures, organized protests and opened up the microphone to listeners scattered throughout the night. At 76 years old, he can still be heard Thursdays at midnight on listener supported NYC station WBAI.
One of the many benefits of being able to participate in Independent Film Week is that it has given us deadlines. And deadlines are often a necessity, forcing you to do the things you know you need to do but just can’t find the time for in the midst of production. We had to put together a trailer, sample reel, website, logo, postcard, etc… Without time constraints these things can linger. And linger. And linger some more. But after a jam packed month of preparation we are finally ready.
Now comes the fun part. Putting our film out there and seeing what kind of response we can get will be a nice change of scenery from our cozy yet compact edit room. We’re a little nervous, but mostly excited. We think our project has a wide range of appeal. Hopefully others will agree. Regardless, any and all feedback is hugely beneficial.
There are two other perks we want to point out in regards to Independent Film Week. First off, the folks at the IFP are incredibly nice and supportive, particularly Milton Tabbot. Many people say kind things about Milton and it’s all true. Also, from a social perspective Independent Film Week can be a lot of fun. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow filmmakers and learn about their projects. And if all the stars align we will be playing the same festivals a year or so down the road.
So we feel very fortunate to be part of this year’s Independent Film Week. And look forward to blogging about our experience.
Paul Lovelace & Jessica Wolfson
Co-directors/producers
Radio Unnameable
