Clayton Jacobson Interview

Brothers’ Nest is my favorite release from the lineup at 2018’s Fantasia Film Festival. Along with the massive cinematic event, I secured an interview with Clayton Jacobson and if I could change one thing, it would be that it had to be in person.

Clayton Jacobson stars wrote, and directed the film and appears in it alongside his brother Shane Jacobson. Other Aussie favorites in the cast are Kim Gyngell, Lynette Curran, and Sarah Snook.

RELATED: For the full review check out Brothers’ Nest Review.

Brothers’ Nest is presented by Screen Australia, Jason Byrne Productions, and Bison Films in association with Film Victoria and Label Distribution. It is scheduled for theatrical release in Australia in May 2018, with US release dates to follow.

I urge you to go and see it, it’s an amazing film and hopefully, a turning point for Clayton Jacobson to get more of his work out to the masses.

Trailer for Brothers Nest an Australian Thriller Movie

YouTube video
Interview with Clayton Jacobson
Screen Australia, Jason Byrne Productions, and Bison Films

Clayton Jacobson Interview

I watched an interview you did explaining how you’re trying to devise ways to bypass having your ideas ‘morphed’ through processes in filmmaking. I loved that one way is to connect with audiences directly and forge relationships with exhibitors. I found this enlightening and inspirational to listen to.

I just wanted to say that I hope your endeavors pave the way for other filmmakers to do the same. As an enthusiastic audience member, I love your films 

So thank you for taking the time to answer the following questions and I wish you all the best in having fewer ‘air’ moments. (“It’s all air until you’re there”)

CJ Thanks for your kind words above  – much appreciated

Questions With Clayton Jacobson – Interview

I love that you have many professional hats in filmmaking. Which role is the most comfortable for you? (Editor, director, actor, etc.)

CJ

I started as an editor— so it’s the one gig I’m most comfortable performing but directing is the most fun.

Brother’s Nest is the perfect blend of comedy and darker elements. Do you have a horror film for you? (Or would you like to make one?)

CJ

Funny while I think my film takes a horrific turn— I dont see it as horror genre wise – so no I don’t- however if someone offered me a ‘Shining’ or something in that fashion i would take it seriously.

Given that you and Shane are brothers playing brothers, was anything added to the film that came about after spending so much time together?

CJ

I’m a great believer of putting as much of one’s self into your work both behind and in front of the camera – so yes – Shane and I talked about this story and the characters a lot and sprinkled a lot of ourselves and extended family throughout.

Is there anything you tend to avoid or rebel against in your work either directorially or as an actor? E.g. certain themes or techniques.

CJ

No not really— the only thing I pull back from is if something feels false— I love truth in film—truth in performance. I need to believe in whats on screen.

What do you like to do on set when there is a break during filming?

CJ

I like to stand back and watch the crew and cast all buzzing away at work all the trucks and artifice of filmmaking at full tilt— and me standing back like a child again thinking hey im apart of this. It keeps me honest and hopefully humble in my work. I never like to take this job for granted.

What Do You Hate?

While watching movies, what sets you off? (I.e. What sort of stories or character narratives cause a furrowed brow or inclination to throw inanimate objects at the screen)

CJ

Dumbed down storytelling—being force fed story and character as though im two years old.

Growing up seeing Kim Gyngell on the telly, I loved his portrayal of Roger in this. Was he keen on the role after he read the script?

CJ

Yes, he was— I’ve worked with kim before— funny thing is I had him hostage in my short film as well— so we mustn’t have treated him too badly he came back for more punishment. I just love the man and his work in the film is terrific.

My favorite types of films to watch are character-driven but it’s hard to get right. Brother’s Nest was successful in this aspect. What is the hardest part of making the first half of the film?

CJ

I agree – I’m all about character first— The hardest thing about the first half of the film was convincing people why I loved it so much— I love that the film is like two genres— the first half is almost a farce two hander – then it shifts – big time. It’s so hard to surprise audiences these days and I just thought this film kept you guessing to the very end— its rare. The hard part was getting that balance right.

That’s it from me. My name is Vanessa Stewart. Mother Of Movies loved the film.

CJ

Good on you Vanessa great questions hope I get to meet you one day thanks for your time and energy – Clay

Eeek! For the full review of Brothers’ Nest check it out here!

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