Melbourne Documentary Film Festival - Hip Hop & Holiness: Meet the Godfather of Sydney Graffiti
Meet the hip hop dancing Pastor who can freestyle rhyme and is one of Australia’s most prolific graffiti writers.
Interview with Director/Producer Bella Ann Townes
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
Thank you. The main goal in making Hip Hop & Holiness was to share a rare inspiring story of a graffiti writer who is also a Pastor and possesses a long, successful artistic career. Graffiti is often associated with crime and vandalism but what many don’t know is how hip hop culture has inspired artists with faith and the important contribution these artists make to the community.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
It's fascinating, unorthodox and I believe will both inspire and challenge your perception of what it means to be a Christian and what it means to be a graffiti writer. Both cultures can be misunderstood at times and this film breaks stereotypes while giving the audience insight to the history of graffiti in Australia and reasons why artists do it.
Mural of the Apostle Matthew, painted for the film.
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
Mistery's journey of finding faith in God and how he has adapted Christianity into his art practice to create his own 'flavour' of hip hop is personal yet relatable to people. Everyone has asked universal questions about God, our existence, our purpose and how we can uniquely integrate our passions with our career at some point during their lives. Mistery's story is unconventional but has universal themes that people from all walks of life will connect with.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?
One part of the documentary that evolved in a big way over the course of development was the part on Israel. The more I discovered about Mistery's Jewish background, the more I became fascinated by it and the influence it has on the way he approaches art and life. I was able to draw this out and over time shoot and collect footage from a variety of places, including video from Mistery himself in Jerusalem. This really pushed this part of the story to a new level and dynamic. And it became my favourite part of the film.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
To reach more people so it can be seen by a wider audience. I want people to have an awareness and interest in watching the film as I'd like it to be seen by as many people as possible from all walks of life. We believe in Mistery's story and the message the documentary brings to impact and inspire others.
Mistery painting while filming.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
Anyone and everyone that is interested in sharing the message. Especially those involved in the elements of hip hop but also educators, teachers, schools, filmmakers, churches and community organisations.
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
I would like it to inspire people and broaden their understanding of faith and hip hop culture. If the film makes some feel mad and some feel glad, then we have achieved something. I just don't want people to walk away indifferent.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
How can a Christian Pastor be a graffiti writer?
Mistery drawing the outline for his mural while filming.
What are the key creatives developing or working on now?
We are in pre-production for a spoken word poetry film and are exploring ideas for another documentary. However, we are also getting involved in youth and community work, developing a creative arts workshop.
Interview: May 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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Hip Hop & Holiness: Meet the Godfather of Sydney Graffiti
Meet the hip hop dancing Pastor who can freestyle rhyme and is one of Australia’s most prolific graffiti writers.
Length: 11:50 mins
Director: Bella Ann Townes
Producer: Bella Ann Townes
About the writer, director and producer:
Bella Ann Townes is an independent artist and filmmaker. Having worked in a newsroom for 10 years, she uses her journalistic background and passion for uncovering meaningful stories to make documentaries.
Key cast: Matthew 'Mistery' Peet
Looking for (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists):
Looking for producers or agents or distributors is not my highest priority, though it would be nice. I simply believe Mistery's story is worth telling and I would like people to see and be impacted by the work he does & message he tells.
Social media handles:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theghettogallery/
Twitter: @bellaanntownes
Instagram: @bellaanntownes
Where can I see it in the next month? Howler Art Space in Brunswick, 9th July 2017 11AM, Focus Australia Short Documentary