Jessica Janos dedicated “Acid Waves” to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.  Music videos aren’t known for delivering searing messages, and perhaps that risk-taking effort partly explains why the video, featuring music by Pale Blue, won the Mobile Motion Film Festival “Best Music Video Award.” But “Acid Waves” is not only issue oriented but highly entertaining. In the tradition of “Memento,” the video tells its story by running time backwards. The result is a work that is challenging and moving. Much becomes apparent on a second viewing.

 

We interviewed the director regarding her background and details of making the movie.

MMM: How did you develop your filmmaking skills?

Janos: I began making films in high school and as a Fine Art undergrad at CalArts. Before that I was a photographer and painter. I then attended a film production program in Sydney – The Academy of Photogenic Arts, then got my Bachelor Degree in Film at the University of New South Wales also in Sydney. I returned to Los Angeles and got my Masters at the American Film Institute Conservatory as a Director.

MMM: Why did you choose to shoot the movie with a smartphone rather than a traditional camera?

Janos: There were a few reasons I chose the iPhone 7 plus. I wanted to experiment with it for larger projects. Also it was cheap. The budget for Acid Waves was under $100. I also enjoy the intimacy of its small size when working with actors and the aesthetic of reality it provides because we are so used to cellphone video, it feels more “real.”

MMM: Can you explain why you decided to use reverse motion in telling your story?

Janos: I chose to tell the story in reverse because it builds tension. To give it away at the beginning focuses on the rape and would diminish what the story is about—how this girl behaves after she’s been raped by her partner. This is based on an experience I had with a long ago ex, and one of the most visceral parts of that memory was walking out into his family’s house, kids running around, grandma cutting apples, dad at the BBQ, and not being able to say anything about what had just happened.

MMM: The film does convey great emotion.

Jason: I was in a state of shock.

MMM: During the production, did you encounter any problems?

Janos: The greatest challenge was getting all the talent. Pale Blue agreed to the concept, Justine Wachsberger and Matthew Fahey came on as the leads, many friends from a writing salon I am a part of, Twin Bridges, stepped and offered their talents. A DP friend of mine from AFI, Chris Ekstein of Market Street Productions in Venice, CA shot the piece, and that was the extent of our cast and crew. It was a labor of love.

MMM:  Did you use any special gear during the production?

Janos: I used a small rechargeable stabilization device I purchased off of Amazon. It was very effective.

MMM: Do you have any advice for new filmmakers who are trying to improve their skills?

Janos: My advice is never let not having enough money stop you. I never have access to expensive equipment and I always make do. Focus on story, character, visual imagery: that is more important than anything.

MMM: How can readers learn more about your work?

Janos: They can check out my website – jessicajanos.com.  I am also on facebook, youtube, vimeo, instagram and twitter.

“Acid Waves” was chosen as a Mobile Movie of the Week.

For people interested in the band, you can follow Pale Blue here. The lyrics to the song “Acid Waves” follow:

Distance to the waves

Distance to the waves

The stars

Goodbye

Distance from my mate

Tonight

He’s mine

We lie

Tonight

Tonight

Tonight

We lie tonight.

This kiss

This kiss

This kiss

This kiss

Distance to the waves

The stars