Meet Shannon Litt, a director based in Canada and a member of the StudentFilmmakers Filmmakers Network. See Shannon’s Network profile to connect.
StudentFilmmakers Magazine: We recently learned that your idea for a web series was selected to be produced by your university. Could you share with us what you presented to the board of professors at your school?
Shannon Litt: Each presenter was only allotted 5 minutes for their pitch, and visual aids were not allowed. I had researched how to present a “winning pitch” online about a month before, so I felt prepared when I began writing. I started off with what a number of high-profile film/TV writers recommend – with something personal. I talked about my experience in the church, and continued on to describe the idea for the show, including the structure, tone, similar shows broadcast now, and required equipment. I made it clear that it would be in the board’s best interest to approve the show, as it was a viable production which would be making solid use of the up-and-coming web-series format. I ended with a quick summary of my previous experience working on sets and heading my own projects.
SFM: What inspired the story for your web series?
Shannon Litt: What inspired the idea behind Thorns was my own experiences growing up in a very religious household. I was always involved in the church growing up, and my experiences in the youth group were particularly enlightening and interesting. It was strange when I realized that not everyone was raised Student Web Series Selected to Be Produced
some of your most favorite scenes in “Subject Zero,” and why?
Toby Bresnahan: It’s a sci-fi action thriller with fight and chase scenes. These type of action sequences are always challenging because you don’t want to overwhelm or underwhelm the action so I’d have to say that I find these the most enjoyable to score because they are the most challenging.
SFM: Could you share with us a little bit about what goes on when a composer is hired to compose and score music for an indie feature? Who do you communicate with on the project, who are you collaborating with, and what kinds of things are involved?
Toby Bresnahan: Luckily, with Glass Cage the communication is really good. That is not always the case. I’ve learned that everyone has their own definition of communication (laughs). Hopefully, you have an open channel to the director and/or producer directly. It’s critical with any film project. It’s interesting because everyone has their own terminology when it comes to music. For instance, terms like, “Dark” or “Up” or “Swift” can easily be misinterpreted if the communication is lacking. Luckily, the folks at Glass Cage are great communicators and have definite concepts for the direction of their films.
SFM: What’s in the project pipeline that we should look out for?
Toby Bresnahan: I have a few new soundtrack film projects as well as an independent film audio restoration project in the pipe line. I’ve also joined a local Celtic Trio which plays live Traditional Irish music, and it’s great fun and keeps my bouzouki chops sharp. We’re recording a full-length CD to be released in 2011 as well. I continue to write for music libraries and I’m always updating my portfolio. Keep an eye on my website for updates. (www. tobybresnahan.com)
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