A documentary is like a baby. You plant the seed and nurture it till it is born. For my latest film “The Drum Maker” the birthday is October 15th, 2017. The exact time is 4:00PM in the afternoon.

How did this film idea come about? By pure chance, and magic. Toby and I went to a climate march/protest at Kitchener city hall where we met another young filmmaker Jocelyn. One thing led to another, we decided to collaborate on film projects. I have the equipment and she has some interesting ideas so off we went.

Jocelyn, like all new-age, spiritual, vegan, neophytes, thought it would be a great idea to make a native drum. This is where she met Leon, the protagonist of our little documentary film.

The rest, as they say is history. We worked hard at the film for about two years. On the way we sought help and assistance from other talented collaborators. Toby was our boom operator, Jason Greenberg was our sound designer, Margaret Fleury gave us background material. The project grew organically and meandered into existence.

Whether it is my laziness or my geniusness, I never approach a documentary film project by writing a “Director’s Vision Statement”. I tend to smell out a good story and just shoot until I drop. In the editing room the story comes alive.

Is my method successful? Does this laissez faire way of filmmaking produced a good product? I want you to be the judge. Come to the premiere event on Oct 15th and give me your honest opinion. I would love to see you there.

Published by ZEN WANG

Nuclear Project Engineer turned Filmmaker. View all posts by ZEN WANG