Allan Gutheim | Interview

 

RSTMPA : What initially drew you to filmmaking?

Allan : I have always been interested in film. Have been a collector of classic films and TV series on DVD for many years. Started at an early age with cinefilm. Through my profession in music it became natural to start making music videos for my own music. From there it was not a long step to also producing short films.

RSTMPA : Who are your filmmaking influences, and how do they inspire your work?

Allan : I’ve always been fond of the old matinee films. And detective stories from the 1930s to the 60s. I strive for similar imagery but with all the possibilities of today.

RSTMPA : What are some of the biggest challenges you face as an independent filmmaker?

Allan : It’s mainly in the format. We’re talking small resources. To someday be able to produce with larger resources would be a pleasant challenge.

RSTMPA : What advice do you have for aspiring independent filmmakers on building a strong crew?

Allan : Who you choose to work with is Alpha and Omega. Make sure you have knowledgeable people around you who can complement your skills.

RSTMPA : What strategies do you use to get your films seen by a wider audience?

Allan : My works are mainly spread through social media and film festivals.

RSTMPA : What are your thoughts on the future of independent cinema in the digital age?

Allan : There are both opportunities and challenges. On the one hand, AI is a fantastic opportunity for creative people to further deepen their creativity. At the same time, even the ignorant are given the opportunity to copy the creator’s original. You lose the authenticity of the creation. It is dangerous if true originality is lost.

RSTMPA : Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your winning film?

Allan : The mini-series “Philip Gun P.I.” is created, directed and produced by myself. As for the music, I am collaborating with my wife Maria. To give the right feeling of a private investigator living in the present, but inspired by the 1930s detectives, we chose to compose a mix of electronic music and traditional jazz music. Philip Gun is a cool private investigator, walking around in trenchcoat and hat. In an unspecified city, Philip Gun and his assistant Lin Henri solve cases, some that even The National Security Agency can’t handle. A big part of the Philip Gun concept is the mix of thrill, humor, action and drama. Cinematic as well as musical. The series core is the music, which sets the mood and enhances each scene. For every episode, about ten minutes each, new music is recorded. There are no dialogues, instead the plot is moved forward and explained by the main character’s narrator voice. Of course, Philip Gun has his own musical theme.

RSTMPA : Are there any upcoming projects you’re excited to work on?

Allan : Right now I’m mainly working on music videos for my pop duo Hot Beat, with a personal mix of electronic synth-pop and modern dance beats. The ambition with the music as well as the music videos is to spread joy and energy.