By Michael Pelosi
courtesy image from the film RISEUP
The director of the film RISEUP– Luciano Blotta, makes it clear that his film is both an ode to Jamaican music and a tribute to hard working artists. The film will resonate with anyone who can appreciate overcoming obscurity and fighting for what they believe in. The filmmaker, who plans on attending SFF 2010, answered a few questions below:
A: Jamaican music is one of the main vehicles of expression, it is really the voice of the people of the island. Therefore, it is a powerful force that attracts thousands, making it very competitive to succeed in it and be heard. So you can imagine the challenges, the struggles and the journeys these people face when they decide to incur into the turbulent world of Jamaica’s music.
It is in the underground that this talent lies because the mainstream consists of just a handful of names, being this such a small place, but the rest of the talent is totally undiscovered yet these artists have amazing stories to tell. I felt it was important to focus on these unseen people and learn how an artist makes it in music in Jamaica, by experiencing it through the years with them.
A: I think it was a natural flow, it wasn’t an intellectual decision or something I was concerned with. I actually remained respectful and conscious of the universal themes running in the culture and thus left it up to the artists to show that authenticity. I tried not to editorialize, just let them tell the stories they wanted to tell, because they are in it. They are living it so it doesn’t get more authentic than that.
A: It was dangerous because you can venture into places where you may not be welcome, especially with a camera. But I was fortunate to have with me my teammate Carlo Less, a music producer familiar with the scene who helped us navigate this world with caution and respect, it was invaluable and helped us avoid most dangers. However, even with the upmost care, we faced difficult moments where our lives were at stake.
A: I can indeed. In fact, I related to it so much I decided to tell this tale. Every artist wants to be heard and understood. They want their work to be seen and appreciated. This is the same for every artist working in any medium and filmmakers are no exception. So, I was inspired by these artists’ fight to be recognized, because like them, I also wanted my art to reach the world.
A: I think the universal theme at play in this film is hope. Unlike many documentaries, RISEUP is an upbeat story that resonates with people’s desires to triumph and to make dreams come true. It is really a feel-good movie and I’d be happy to hear that it inspired you in any way, because inspiration is key to make things happen in the world. I’ve been fortunate enough to get such feedback so I am proud and happy to hear that is happening.
A: Film festivals are a great way to get your film recognized and out into the world. This is the first time audiences get to see what you’ve done so it is one of the most exciting and unforgettable experiences you get during the life of your project. It is also where you can collect awards and accolades and it is just a great way to connect with peers in the industry and share your adventures in making the films.
This too is wonderful because you get to realize that you are not alone in this struggle and that pretty much everybody goes through the same things. Last but not least, the festival crowds are usually great and very appreciative. You get a lot of feedback from them and the Q&A’s are always delightful for everybody involved.
I heard great things about Salem and can only wait to meet the people.
We hope to have a wonderful screening and are thankful to the festival for inviting us as well as to Front Street Coffeehouse who is our direct sponsor for the film. Can’t wait to meet them all and thank them personally!
Great interview, was very interesting and informative!