1. When and why did you decide to be a filmmaker?

I had always been interested in photography, music, and writing. Filmmaking incorporates all three.

2. What is the most helpful book you've read on filmmaking?

I really got a lot out of a book called "First Time Director" by Gil Bettman. It's full of practical advice and insights.

3. What are the most difficult challenges you've faced as a filmmaker and why?

I tend to throw myself into projects and obsess about the details. Living with a project from conception to completion can be challenging but also a great joy.

4. What is the best thing you've learned from writing and directing?

I've learned that one person can't and shouldn't try to wear all hats when making a film. Also, that if the script is good, when you start directing, it's best to let the actors tell the story in their own way.

5. What are your favorite films and why?

I'm a big fan of the movie "Fandango" and anything by the Coen Brothers, um... really just anything with soul and originality.

6. Who are your favorite directors and why?

The Coen Brothers, Alfred Hitcock, Wes Anderson, Christopher Guest.

7. Who are your favorite actors and why?

Alan Arkin. His performances in Glengarry Glenross and Little Miss Sunshine seem very genuine and if you watch those two movies, his characters are so completely different and so believable, it's hard to accept they came from the same man.

8. Why did you choose A. (anonymous) as your first feature?

I had been kicking it around with Bill Sawalich for years and decided to give it a whirl. I had done two documentaries before A. (anonymous) and was anxious to shoot something completely fictional.

9. How did you finance it?

Borrowed equipment and lots of support from my wife. On paper, we spent about $600, but that doesn't take into account the two years of work on it.

10. How did you find your actors and crew?

Ray Brewer, who plays Benji is not only an incredibly funny and talented person and actor, he also knows a gazillion people in Saint Louis and with his good nose for talent, he did most of the casting.

11. Do you think it's important to make some short films before tackling a feature? Why or why not?

I think it's very important to work on shorter pieces before investing your time, money and energy into a feature. You learn so much each time you make a film, and your ducks really need to be in a row when you tackle a feature.

12. How did you go about getting A. (anonymous) distributed?

We did a lot of promoting of A. (anonymous) on the internet through our website and myspace page and I was contacted by Indie Rights to distribute it.

13. Have you earned any profit on your film yet?

A little, but I still have a day job.

14. What have you learned about the business side of filmmaking?

That if you want to continue filmmaking, you can't ignore the business side.

15. What do you think is the key to working with actors?

Just making sure they understand their character inside and out and convincing them not to "act." It translates better if they just be themselves as if what is on paper is really happening to them.

16. What do you think makes a great director?

I couldn't tell you. If I ever meet one in person, I'll let you know what he/she says.

17. As far as filmmaking, what do you think Missouri offers that other places don't?

Urban and rural locations very close to one another. Also, lots of tightknit artistic communities.

18. What do you think is the most important part of a great movie?

A great story.

19. What is your highest priority as a filmmaker?

To keep making films.

20. What do you think is the key to succeeding in this industry?

Perservance and being open to continually learning.

21. What is the most important piece of advice you'd give an aspiring filmmaker?