Q: Is this your first film with The Asylum?
NICK: This is actually one of many for Asylum that I have directed since “Zombie Apocalypse,” which then became “Z Nation.” They know low budget like no others, and are a great place to hone my skills. I love the guys at Asylum.
Q: How long was the shoot? What were some of the challenges filming it?
NICK: The shoot was a mere 12 days. or was it 11? It felt like 10…. the budget was super shoestring and we had too much to do every single day. The challenges aside from a short shooting schedule and limited time…well, no money…Otherwise it was a really fun and creative shoot and I think we have a very entertaining film.
Q: Any interesting anecdotes to share about the process of directing Isle?
NICK: I guess would be that we shot half the film at a water reclamation facility known as the Poo Factory. Unfortunately, one morning about 5 of our crew members ended up dry heaving from the smell and one actually vomited. Luckily the actors, especially those who were more sensitive, were able to get through it. I personally didn’t mind it after a few hours, you just get used to it.
Q: How did you get such a cool look and film all those action sequences with such a short shooting schedule?
NICK: It was great to work with the Laura Beth Love (director of photography) who shot the film. We wanted to have a look that was moody, but fast to shoot. So we went small with the package and high with atmosphere. I have a system and directing methodology that I use and I know what I need to achieve, so I maximize the time and coverage to get a look and that also allows me to freely cut as I want to. It also helps to have a solid cast who know how to step on set and deliver. Otherwise, its about lensing angle selection, location selection, blocking and a gut feeling.
