Interview with filmmaker Erik Linthorst (TURKEY)

Erik Linthorst’s short film “TURKEY” was the Winner of Best Film at the FEEDBACK Film Festival in September. A pure family comedy that had the sold out audience laughing throughout.

Watch the Audience FEEDBACK Video from the Festival:

Interview with filmmaker Erik Linthorst:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

The desire to transition from writing to writing and directing, and just wanting to be able to see something I’ve written on the big screen.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

About a month for writing, a month of prep, a 4 day shoot, and then about 9 months of post (working on it very part time). So about a year total.

3. How would you describe your short film in two words!?

Family Clusterf@%k

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

Three separate construction projects going on within a 500 foot radius of the house during production.

5. Tone-wise, this is a very tough film to pull off because it’s a comedy but with heart (family). The actors were exceptional. Did you do a lot of rehearsal/prep time with them?

No, we did a table read, and then maybe one run through on set before cameras rolled. But the whole cast was made up of consummate professionals with substantial resumes in front of the camera. They were all great to work with.

6. What were your initial reactions when watching the Toronto audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

Gratified that people seemed to get it, and like it. I like hearing the comparisons to Modern Family. One of my hopes is that this film will function as a tv writing sample. We’ve had a tough time getting into top festivals because of the length and because it’s not avant-garde or experimental or edgy, but I made this to be entertaining and I’m so glad that people seemed to be entertained.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

It’s probably a tie between Forrest Gump and Happy Gilmore. HG probably edges out because I spent a week in Chicago and discovered the View and Brew (a bar that shows movies) and they screened it every night, and I went like six times that week.

8. What is next for you? A new film?

I have a new feature spec I’d like to direct, and also a novel I’m trying to option to adapt and direct.