Take 5 with ... "Lanthanum"

Clay Hardwick

As we gear up for the 10th anniversary Oxford Film Festival, we wanted to introduce you to the filmmakers and their films you will experience on Feb. 21-24, 2013. Meet Clay Hardwick, director of "Lanthanum."

#1: In 140 characters or less, describe your movie and why someone should see it.
"Lanthanum" combines elements of a short film, music video, and experimental into a colorful journey of a homeless man discovering the red spirit of the deep forest. This is not your typical music video!

#2: Biggest lesson learned in getting the film made? Best part in getting the film made?
This was the first time that these four artist had worked together. Tre Pepper (as Loki) was the music behind the video, Clay Hardwick (as echomech) was the director, Adam Collier (as AJC) was the acting homeless man, and Peyton Wofford (as mor amora) was the creature and costume creator. The four minds came together to create something that we are all proud of. Everything was new and everything was learned! The final art piece that it is, is the best part in getting the film made.

#3: Tell us about you. What is your movie making background?
I have experience making music videos for a variety of regional bands, but this was only my second time to direct a narrative of my very own. I worked for PBS for two years and have freelanced in video production as a videographer and editor for over six years. I also paint religiously which greatly influenced this project.
I've participated in film festivals before, winning the "Ruma Award" and Best Music Video at Crossroads Film Festival, a Davey Award, and nominated for a regional Emmy award, while participating in many other film fesitvals.

#4: What's your dream distribution plan for the film?
This will be released online as promotional for Loki, the recording artist behind the video. We also will show it around film festivals in the region and at live concerts.
I'm hoping this will bring a lot of individual admire and attention to the tallented, featured artists: Tre Pepper (as Loki), Adam Collier (as AJC), and Peyton Wofford (as mor amora).
Ultimately this video is ART! It was created for the sake of experimentation of the process, as well as expression of the story that it shares.

#5: What does the future hold in store for your film and for you?
This video will serve as a promotional tool for the featured artists, Tre Pepper (as Loki), Adam Collier (as AJC), and Peyton Wofford (as mor amora).
I will be creating more and more art in 2013 as a video artist and painter. I hope this film can pave the way!