Sam Goodrum

Actor in "You Pick the President"

Your project has entered in our festival. What is your project about?

It's a comedy about a game show host that has a bright idea - a show where presidential candidates are evaluated by TV viewers.

What are your ambitions with your project?
It's a great, funny project. Daniel has submitted it for a number of film festivals. We're hoping to get some great exposure and expand our careers.

Tell us something about your shooting? What pleasantly surprised you?
This project was filmed entirely during Covid lockdowns. I didn't interact with any other actors - it was just ME! It was a strange sensation, working entirely alone. The good news is, I didn't have to learn my lines! HA! The actors all got to come together for the premier, and that was a great time!

For what group of spectators is your film targeted?
Anyone who enjoys a good comedy, and appreciates political humor. Watching "real" politics can be stressful, but this movie is a fun ride.

Why should distributors buy your film?
It makes light of the political process in the US. Some people may view the premise of this movie as a REAL possibility, and alternative to our current processes. Even though this is a comedy, it might make a positive impact! I'm hoping so, anyway.

How would you specify your work? What characterizes your film?
We've got a very diverse cast of characters, that come from several angles and viewpoints. Some are reasonably mainstream and relatable, and others are "off the wall". I think this film has something for everyone.

Why did you decided to become a filmmaker?
I've been acting over 20 years, and films (versus stage acting) has a much broader reach. I like the creativity of the process, and also the potential to impact people around the world with a positive message.

Who is your role model?
He's before my time, but I love Elvis Presley. He entertained people in every way - music, stage, and screen. He was world-renowned icon.

Which movies are your favorites? Why?
I love all kinds, as most people do. But my favorites are usually action-adventure, or action-comedy. I like to be excited, and laugh, and cheer for the good guys! A great villain is always helpful too!

Where do you look for inspiration for your films?
I like movies that are silly, but also grounded in reality. I want people to be able to relate to my projects. Put themselves in the characters' shoes. That gives me inspiration, and motivation.

Which topics interest you the most?
I like movies that face the protagonist with a problem/challenge. It's great to see a regular person put into an extraordinary situation, and see how they can respond. I think we all like to think we can handle challenges, and I like to explore that topic.

What do you consider your greatest achievement in your career?
This movie (You Pick the President) is my greatest achievement so far. It came together VERY well, and it was so much fun meeting all the other actors and crew.

What do you consider most important about filming?
It's great when everyone has a good understanding of the goal/objective of the project.

Which film technique of shooting do you consider the best?
I like a variety of shooting techniques, especially a variation of ranges - long shots, close ups, etc. I especially like how some filmmakers are able to use panning shots to make it LOOK like a scene is filmed in one long take. I'm sure that's rarely the case, but some filmmakers create and illusion of "one shot" shots very well. I find that VERY impressive.

How would you rate/What is your opinion about current filmmaking?
I love variety, and creativity. It's great to see new things in a given film. I thought the movie "Smile" was very original, and used tilting cameras and sounds VERY well. SUPER creepy! However, some big budget movies are somewhat predictable, and lack the creativity of smaller low-budget projects. So I like to expose myself to both blockbuster movies, and small independent films.

What can disappoint you in a movie?
My biggest one is a lack of creativity. If a film is predictable, or seems like a re-hash of a previous film, that's disappointing.

Who supports you in your film career?
My daughter! She's 11 and I took her to the premier. She LOVED seeing me on the red carpet!

What are the reactions to your film? (opinion of spectators, film critics, friends and family)
Extremely positive so far! Lets hope it stays that way! HA!

Have you already visited any of the prestigious film festivals?
Not yet, but I would LOVE to! I have a valid passport, by the way. (wink)

What are your future plans in filmmaking carriere?
I plan to keep making films with Six4 Films for now. Daniel is great and has more roles lined up for me. It would be great if this film generates additional opportunities for me as well.
I'm open, and flexible.