Winning film played at the Thriller/Suspense Festival.
DON’T WAIT UP FOR ME, 18min., USA
Directed by Alain Alfaro
A lonely and troubled writer jeopardizes his own life when he hires a hitman on himself.
Get to know the filmmaker. Interview conducted by Matthew Toffolo
1. What motivated you to make this film?
A passion for filmmaking and a need to tell a personal story through a genre lens. My mission as a filmmaker is to show Latinos in complex roles that is beyond what we’re used to seeing, but also grounded in truth.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
Six months.
3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Pulsating fun.
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Being a one-person band. I shot, directed, coordinated, and edited the film amongst other tasks. It was too many hats and I wouldn’t want to do it that way again. I did, however, learn a lot about filmmaking as well as myself as a filmmaker/storyteller that I will carry on into my future projects.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
I thought it was very, very cool to see these people who I’ve never met speak so nicely about me and my team’s work. What a refreshing way to start the day.
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
As a child when watching movies was an escape from reality.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Back To The Future
8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
An in-person screening in New York City.
9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Very good.
10. What is your favorite meal?
Steak.
11. What is next for you? A new film?
I hope to expand the world of this film through making other short films and perhaps a podcast. I’m also writing a feature film that I hope to make in the future.
Thriller/Suspense Film and Writing Festival 