Tag: mike gutridge

Meet Director, Mike Gutridge

Mike introduced me to the world of Independent film when he asked me to join the cast of his Arthouse drama Shadows, scheduled for release mid-2020. His relaxed style on set combined with his passion for the craft inspired all of us to put forth our best. When I decided to write and produce In Your Afterglow, Mike was the first person I called. Could we do it again – 2 summers in a row!?

Tell me a little about yourself

I grew up watching movies and wanting to make them! I graduated from Film School in 1996 and have made a short Loretta, and three features: The Bone Garden, Shadows and In Your Afterglow. I also have a self published book of Halloween short stories and poetry.

What was your favorite experience working on the film?

Working with all the different actors and shooting in several different locations. The historical sites used in the film were particularly interesting.

What is your biggest challenge when directing or directing/producing independent films?

The biggest challenge is trying to “beat the clock” and get a scene finished on time and on schedule. Plus, there are always audio issues to deal with such as cars in the background. Big budget films can shut down the street for a day. I have never had that luxury on any film I’ve done.

What skills improved while directing the film?

You never stop learning on any production; especially a low budget one. Literally with EVERY scene, you grow and get better!

What aspects of In Your Afterglow could you relate to personally?

My daughter Claire has autism and was the inspiration for Trish’s character Claire.

*** Author’s note: Mike’s daughter Claire is the inspiration for the character Claire in the film. Although the real Claire and the character Claire are very different, I had many conversations with Mike and Katie about character development.

What’s next for you?

I have two features in preproduction now, Wood Floors, which will star Bay Watch’s Alexandria Paul and South Pass. I’m waiting to see which one secures funding first. I’m also finishing up the final audio mix on Shadows that will be ready in March.

Click on the link below to view the official trailer for In Your Afterglow:

Click on the link below to purchase your tickets for the premiere of In Your Afterglow: February 23 @ 4pm.

https://appellcenter.org/show/capfilm-in-your-afterglow

Meet Wyatt Gutridge

Wyatt plays Max, son of Katie and Mark Watson and brother of Claire. Max is struggling with Claire’s strange behavior and wants it to stop! I met Wyatt while participating in Director, Mike Gutridge’s arthouse film “Shadows” (release date projected for mid-2020). Unlike his character (Max), Wyatt is very supportive and loving to his sister Claire who has autism. (Claire Gutridge was my inspiration for the character Claire.) Wyatt’s exposure to the industry through father Mike and his natural instincts have prepared him well for his first acting role. I’m confident viewers will find his portrayal of Max very endearing.

Wyatt has Tourette’s Syndrome. After casting him in the role of Max, his parents, Wyatt, and I discussed the possibility of his symptoms manifesting during filming. We decided, should that be the case, I would write it into his character. However, despite the natural pressure involved in filming, Wyatt breezed through the scenes, so there was no need to alter the script.

Tell me a little about yourself

I grew up with the best parents in the world. They are very supportive of everything my siblings and I do. I come from a family of creativity, passion, and non-stopping greatness.

How did you get involved with the film?

My dad directed a movie with Trish called “SHADOWS.” She was inspired to write her own movie. And the first person that came to her mind to play the role of Max was me.

How did you prepare for your role in the film?

I read my lines, practiced how to say them, and followed what the grown-ups said.

What is your favorite scene from the film? Why?

Every scene I’m in because I can see how I did it. It’s great feedback on what I need to work on.

What parts of your character/role could you most relate to personally?

Max has a sister with Autism, and I have a sister with Autism.

What skills improved during your participation in the film?

My personality. How I pursue my character.

Click the following link to purchase your tickets to see Wyatt In Your Afterglow, February 23, 2020.

https://appellcenter.org/show/capfilm-in-your-afterglow