How long have you been doing movies? How did you decide to start making movies?

For the past 30 years, writing and directing plays have been my passion, earning me wide recognition in Mexico and beyond as a multi-awarded playwright. However, filmmaking has always been my true calling. Due to personal circumstances, I haven't been able to pursue this dream until now. Finally, I'm thrilled to embark on my first independent film project!

Two things fueled my decision to make the film finally. First, it's been a lifelong ambition. Second, advancements in technology have made filmmaking more accessible than ever. Today, creating a film doesn't require a massive budget, opening doors for more creative voices like mine to explore the beauty of cinematic language.

 

Why did you do this project?

“Ad Absurdum” is the film adaptation of my play, “Deshonra.” The play resonated with audiences for its exploration of human passion and bold political commentary. Recognizing its strong cinematic potential, I decided to bring it to the big screen with the invaluable support of my producers, Graciela Cázares and Denis Elizalde. The talented cast, featuring Jorge Luis Moreno, Humberto Solórzano, and Fernando Banda, also played a crucial role in the film's production.

 

(If you can say). How much budget did you have to do this project?

We accomplished the entire production and post-production with a budget of US $10,000. Initially, I aimed to assemble a team of individuals who were willing to take risks and push boundaries. I had learned to make theater in the desert sand of Baja California, working outdoors with no budget, so I believed we could make a film with the same constraints. Robert Rodriguez had successfully done it in the '90s, and I thought we could do it ourselves. Technology was undoubtedly our ally and the scenic route we had available eliminated many obstacles for us.

 

Was it self-funded or did you get budget/producers/investors?

"Ad Absurdum" is a self-financed film, a testament to the belief that big budgets aren't everything. A few years back, my producer Graciela Cázares and I [together founded Calypso Productions] approached our dear friend, Denis Elizalde, and we asked him for the budget. We knew it wouldn't be easy: the project required significant investment with uncertain returns. But Denis, true to his adventurous spirit, became our accomplice. He contributed a substantial portion of the funding, with Graciela and I covering the rest. The cast and crew generously worked for minimal compensation. Denis even lent us a camera, and we utilized two Canon 5D Mark IIIs. Resourcefulness was key, and it paid off.

 

How long did it take from the initial idea to being able to release?

About three years, due to the lack of money, it was a long process.

 

Are you happy with the result?

Making “Ad Absurdum” truly pushed my boundaries. I wore many hats – writer, director, cinematographer, and editor. It wouldn't have been possible without the dedication of our incredible team. I thank Graciela Cázares, Denis Elizalde, the cast, and the crew for their unwavering support on this self-financed project. Bringing José Luis Salazar on board as post-producer was a game-changer. His expertise elevated the film to a whole new level.

 

What phase is this project in right now? Are you in the initial phase of sending it to festivals, middle phase or finishing the circuit?

“Ad Absurdum's” journey has just begun! While it wasn't officially competing, the film was recently screened at Mix Filmfest Mexico and received a remarkably positive reception. This enthusiastic response from the audience is a great motivator as we continue submitting the film to other festivals.

 

How has your experience been with the festivals so far? Where do you think they should improve?

Excellent, I'm glad the technical aspects were not a major concern. The limitations we faced were primarily logistical, but our team's resourcefulness and commitment overcame those challenges. The fact that we all rallied together to support the production at every turn speaks about the passion and determination of your team.

 

Normally, filmmakers use many references, favorite directors, favorite movies, etc. Were you inspired by any director or film? If so, tell us your references.

The work of visionary filmmakers like Lars von Trier, David Mamet, Alfred Hitchcock, and John Cassavetes was a major inspiration for this project. The blend of theatricality and cinematic language that these directors pioneered helped me understand the artistic approach I wanted to take. Their unwavering creative independence and genius were driving forces. I also closely studied the early films of Stanley Kubrick, admiring the bold, unapologetic nature of his work. What unites these filmmakers is a refusal to compromise their artistic vision, even in the face of societal pressures or ideological constraints. 

 

Your favorite movies?

Barry Lyndon by Stanley Kubrick, Dogville by Lars von Trier, Rashomon by Akira Kurosawa, High Plains Drifter by Clint Eastwood, Vertigo by Alfred Hitchcock, Faces by John Cassavetes

 

Favorite series?

Mad Men, The Twilight Zone by Rod Serling, The Wire, Borgen, Peaky Blinders and Breaking Bad, The Sopranos, Columbo, Star Trek. 

 

Do you see yourself making movies in 5 years? Where do you see yourself?

This is the beginning and I will continue to work to bring other stories, themes, and artistic explorations to the screen.

 

Do you have any other project in mind?

I have two more projects that we will be able to shoot with a small budget, but this time with more time, which is essential.

 

What do you ask for the future? (cinematographically speaking)

The only thing I need is to keep working, and the only way to learn filmmaking is to make films. Every project needs time and patience.

 

Your best experience in a movie theater?

Discovering the films of Akira Kurosawa, at 19, was a transformative experience for me. I had the opportunity to see four of his seminal works on the big screen in a single day, and it was a revelation. Before this, I had never even heard of Kurosawa, but his cinematic genius immediately captivated me.