Take 5 with "Happy Face"

Franklin Laviola (behind the camera)

As we gear up for the Oxford Film Festival 2011 to be held at the Malco Studio Theater on Feb. 10-13, 2011, we thought we might introduce you to some of the people behind the movies we can't wait to show you.

Meet Take 5 filmmaker, Franklin Laviola, director of "Happy Face." 
For the full schedule and description of the films, visit www.oxfordfilmfest.com.

Q. 1: In 140 characters or less, describe your movie and why someone should see it.

A: "Happy Face" is a psychological thriller about a Hollywood starlet and her twisted relationship with her agent. It is scary, humorous, quite possibly disturbing.

Q. 2: Biggest lesson learned in getting the film made? Best part in getting the film made?

A: The craft of filmmaking is for sure a collaborative endeavor, but it takes a tremendous amount of individual effort, focus and perseverence to see one's vision through from the writing stage to pre-production to shooting and all the way to post-production and the finished product. As rewarding as all the positive audience feedback can be once the film is screened, I believe the best part is the filmmaking process itself.

Q. 3: Tell us about you. What is your movie making background?

A: I have always wanted to make films. I would say "Happy Face" is my first film as writer-director.

Q. 4: What's your dream distribution plan for the film?

A: Well, it's been quite a dream already having my film play nearly 25 festivals across the USA and around the world. For example, the short has screened at BAMcinemaFest; Indie Memphis; Cambridge International Film Festival; Magnolia; LA Shorts Fest; among others. As for actual distribution, it would be nice to have IFC or Sundance Channel pick it up.

Q. 5: What does the future hold in store for your film and for you?

A: We'll see what's next for "Happy Face." As for me, I've just finished a feature length screenplay. It's a low-budget psychological thriller I'd like to direct later in the year. I'm currently seeking financing for the project.