Erie International Film Festival - OHMAWING
Ohmawing is a documentary about an unexplained phenomena associated with Sasquatch encounters. This was first described in Native American folklore dating.
Interview with Writer/Director/Producer Pietro Lombardo
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
I made this film because I found the subject matter to be one of the creepiest things a person could ever experience. It’s not well documented and was difficult to find written information on, let alone get people to discuss first hand. I found it to be a taboo subject among Native Americans and Bigfoot research groups. There are hundred of books and documentaries discussing the possible existence of Bigfoot. I wanted to be the first to bring this eerie phenomena to light.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
You should watch this because everyone loves a mystery. It puts things into perspective when you realize from first hand witnesses that our view of the universe does not alway fit into a square box. There are things out there that break the rules and force us into a new paradigm.
OHMAWING
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
The Bigfoot phenomena is more widely accepted in pop culture as compared to 20 years ago. Bigfoot icons and themes can be seen almost everywhere today. It is estimated that approximately 40% of people actually believe. The interest is growing and therefore the subject less risky to breach in a public forum.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?
This film was produced entirely by myself. My original intent was to have more content that made it non-biased and balanced. However, in the development process, I found the stories that people hold close to themselves had more interest and value.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
I’ve tried to get feedback from across a large spectrum and thus far I have received very positive reviews. The most compelling feedback came from professionals working in the TV production field. One individual made a comment that it was very well arranged for a freshman filmmaker.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
I would say no, not like I expected. The problem I've found is the commitment it takes to chase down constructive criticism from your peer group. Everyone is a critic, but to be honest, not every opinion has the same value.
OHMAWING
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
I’d love for more people to see the film who have had a similar experience as described, but don’t have any reference to compare it to. That is the ultimate gratification.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
All the above would be nice. We’ll see what happens.
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
No matter the topic, there is always some interesting insight that few people actually know anything about. You’ll find a treasure trove of information and sometimes just below the surface.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
How do you know the source of this energy is actually coming from a Sasquatch? The truth is, we don’t know for certain or can prove it. However, I could make a very strong correlation between this event and a Sasquatch encounter.
Would you like to add anything else?
A production footnote: Dean Dewees who is featured with Paul Graves lost his left arm to Gangrene in childhood. He went on to play trumpet for The Lawrence Welk Band, Eddie Peabody and The Four Tops.
OHMAWING
What other projects are the key creatives developing or working on now?
I am beginning to work on another short documentary about the cultural impact of 8mm film. For 30 years 8mm film had a good run in the consumer market, but what happened during the onset of the digital error?
Interview: December 2017
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We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series and music video. If you have just made a film - we'd love to hear from you. Or if you know a filmmaker - can you recommend us? More info: Carmela
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OHMAWING
Length: 25:33
Director: Pietro Lombardo
Producer: Pietro Lombardo
Writer: Pietro Lombardo
About the writer, director and producer:
Key cast: Dr. John Bindernagel, Tim Blackhurst, Bill Brewer, Dean Dewees, Paul Graves, Dean Higgins, Mike Johnson, Brandon Keil, Robert Leitterman, Dr. Jeff Meldrum, Mark Piatti, Ron Pyle, Sasquatch Investigations of the Rockies, The BFRO, Kathy Moskowitcz Strain, John Tschannen, Washington Sasquatch Research Team, Steve Wilkins, Arla Williams
Looking for (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists):
Social media handles:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OHMAWING-1586053321639641/