Max Pratts (b. 1999) is an American Film Director and Writer who aims to display the quintessential nature of New York. His stage direction style display’s trust in his actors and crew. At the age of seventeen Max Pratt’s created his first short film during his enrollment at University of Southern California. Shortly after Max created two full feature films Skin in the Game & Call Me Crazy; and is currrently filming his third film. Throughout this interview we gain access to learn about Max Pratts’ the filmmaker.
How has your education at the University of Southern California’s film program influenced his career as a filmmaker?
My education at the University of Southern California massively influenced my career as a filmmaker. I had only made my first short film when I was 17 years old, so college needed for my development. Their curriculum focuses on making films that express your artistic desires, while also being commercially successful. They make sure you are prepared for the business side of the industry which is most important.
Could you share insights into your experience directing two feature films and the impact they have on your future of directing ?
Having the opportunity to direct two feature films has been an absolute pleasure. The feeling of directing a full length film that is addicting. Having made all my films with a minimal budget, I am required to take on the role of many positions on set/ in post production, such as editor, cinematographer, sound mixer and producer. Adding on to that point, making these films fill me with gratitude more than anything else. With the crew and cast I do get, I can’t tell you how much I appreciate them believing in me and lending their talents to my projects. These experiences have shown me who I can trust and who I work well with, which is very important when you are spending hours a day together.
In what ways do you contribute to the filmmaking community when not working on your own projects?
I try to contribute to the filmmaking community as much as I can. I make myself available to anyone who needs an extra hand on set because I believe it’s imperative to help out colleagues and friends realize their visions. Because of that mindset, I have had the pleasure of working on 4 independent feature films, playing a role in their development and execution. This year, I want to give the film community what it really needs; money, so I started a film festival in hopes to fundraise for independent filmmakers. It will be in September and will have various cash prizes for the best films in different categories.
What is your approach when on set?
My approach on set is for people to have fun and make sure that their time isn’t wasted. Being the leader of the set, it is my job to control the atmosphere. I always make sure everyone on set has a voice and is heard. I am the director but I make collaboration my main mission. The people I ask to help me, I trust, so I take their advice or critiques earnestly.
What key genres do you explore in previous and scripts you are currently developing?
My first feature, Skin in the Game was a mixture of a thriller/mystery film, my second movie, Call Me Crazy was a romance and my third film, currently in production, is a horror film about Vampires. I try to keep my options open because I honestly love all genres and plan to explore all genres in my future filmography.
Any Upcoming Projects?
I am currently in production on my latest feature which doesn’t have a title yet, but as mentioned before, it is a vampire movie. It follows a suicidal woman named Clementine who gets turned into a vampire the night she tries to commit suicide. I am working with Kereil Kindle who has been an absolute pleasure to work with. Even with her full time job, she has made time for my film and words can’t express how grateful I am. I am very excited about this project, hopefully, being able to get it online before the year is over.
