Questions w/ PJ Gaynard

The Executive Producer

1) Tell about yourself in exactly twenty words.

I make movies. I help other people make movies. I'm obsessive, relentless, and demanding of myself. I like Eli a lot.

2) How did you get involved in ‘A Note to Etienne’?

Eli volunteered his services in the art department when I made my film Love Sick Love. It seemed only fitting that I do what I could to help him make his project. I volunteered my camera equipment.

3) Have you ever worked on a foreign film before? What was it like working on a french film? Write something in French (without looking it up!)

I worked as executive producer in a similar capacity on a separate short film called Sandwich Shop directed by David Haskell which was also in French. It was a fun project to shoot because it was almost entirely one shot and included some serious dolly moves.

4) What project(s) are you working on next?

I’m currently running my production company Goat Milk Fudge Productions. Along with working on a slate of productions as a producer and DP, I’ll be directing a new short entitled My Anne Frank soon.

5) If you could have created any film past or present and claim it as your own, what would it be? And why?

Excalibur by John Boorman. Every time I watch it I learn something about myself.

Questions w/ Hamdija Ajanovic

The Composer

1) Tell about yourself in exactly twenty words.

Happily married, Tucson based, classically trained composer with a degree in film who plays multiple instruments and speaks several languages.

2) How did you get involved in ‘A Note to Etienne’?

Three years ago, I worked with the director, Eli Benavidez, on Park Bench. Needless to say, it was a great experience, and when he called me (while I was on a vacation) to see if I was available to score Un mot pour Étienne, I agreed even before knowing what the film was about.

3) Have you ever worked on a foreign film before? What was it like working on a french film? Write something in French (without looking it up!)

Even though English language is not my native one, this was the first time I worked on a non-English speaking film. I could not say that it was any different then usual. All the elements of the film, from acting and directing to lighting, cinematography, editing, etc., were beautifully crafted to convey the intended emotions. The music was already in there; all I had to do is give it a life.

Voilà!

4) What project(s) are you working on next?

I am currently composing music for Grapple Buggy, a video game for Xbox 360 that is being developed by Mommy's Best Games. In addition, my wife, Jodi, and I are collaborating on a modern day opera, based on the Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There. Jodi is writting the story and lyrics, and I am composing the music. The play is scheduled to premiere next year in July.

5) What's the strangest talent you have?

Being me.