Donald Flaherty: “A big step into making feature films”

Writer and film director, Donald L. Flaherty has written and directed over a hundred shows and live music events. Recently the director discussed with Ecuador Times his latest project and told us a little bit more about himself.

The Steamroom cast, and Batman

ET: Tell us how did you start working in the movie business?
I started making home movies in junior high school. Throughout high school and college I took filmmaking classes and continued making short films and music videos.

Moving to Los Angeles in my twenties really was the catalyst for me making the decision to pursue a film career. I met a lot of people in different parts of the movie industry and just loved our shared passion for the art of film.

I started doing anything from background work to editing other peoples scripts to learn more about the inner workings of the filmmaking process. I just love all aspects of making a movie.

ET: Is “The Steamroom” your first independent film?
Yes, “The Steamroom” is my first feature film. I’ve done several short films and music videos, but this was the big step into making feature films.

ET: How did you come up with the idea of doing a comedy with the style of “The Steamroom”?
I used to workout at this gym in Hollywood and it had this really crummy steamroom. I used to see this group of guys who hung out in there almost everyday sweating away and it just struck me as a perfect location for a film filled with comedic possibilities.

ET: How long have you been working for the film industry?
I’ve been involved in different parts of the film and creative arts for over twenty years. I’ve directed everything from live shows and music events to music videos and advertisements. And now with “The Steamroom”, I’ve made the leap to feature films.

From left to right actors, Muse Watson, Morgan Fairchild and Director Donald Flaherty

ET: How did you come up with the idea for the short film “The Death of Batman”?
Initially I wanted to direct a project that would be an intense acting piece. Basically two actors in a room throwing emotional body blows at each other. Being a huge Batman fan since I was a kid, I thought it would be interesting to do a superhero film that pared down its’ story to the basics. No huge fight scenes or explosions, the usually stuff associated with the genre. Instead I wanted to focus on Batman and one foe, plain and simple. I also wanted to do something that was more in the style of the Batman black and white series of comics that take place in alternate reality than the mainstream Batman books.

ET: How would you describe your work?
I think my work is unique and unconventional, but still filled with relatable characters and emotions. I also hope that my work has an honest quality that touches people’s lives in a positive way.

ET: How was it like to work with former Prison Break cast member Muse Watson?
Muse gives an amazing performance in “The Steamroom”. It was an honor to work with him. He’s just a great actor and I know the audience is going to fall in love with him in this movie.

I was very blessed on this film, because all the cast members were amazing. In addition to Muse we had Morgan Fairchild in what I consider a career redefining role, as the tough as nails owner of the gym where the film takes place.

I also got work with three amazing up and coming actors that I know are going to make a huge impact in Hollywood. David Mattey, Brian Collins and Colin Follenweider are awesome in the movie. Each one brings an amazing amount of talent, dedication and commitment to their roles in the film.

ET: Are you planning another indie film?
I’m currently gearing up to shoot a new project. I don’t want to jinx it so I’ll keep it under wraps until we are a little further along.

ET: Can you tell us about your favorite moment while filming a movie?
I enjoy the rehearsals with the actors before filming begins the most. I love the process of the creative back and forth working with the actors. It’s just a great feeling when you find that moment with an actor that makes the character come off the page and become real.

“The Steamroom” is a small personal film and it’s very difficult to get the word out to an audience when you are competing against the big Hollywood blockbusters. I’m very grateful to the Ecuador Times for doing this interview. “The Steamroom” is now available on ITunes and at www.flixfling.com. Your readers can also check the trailer and read about the cast of the film at www.steamroom-movie.com. (AV)