Wolfy attends a community workshop and finds himself objectifying the facilitator, Penelope. Throughout the day he attempts to absorb her wisdom while wrestling with his restless mind.

Interview with Writer/Director Michael Tobin

Congratulations! Why did you make your film?

I wanted to construct something that was thought-provoking and entertaining without being didactic. Now, more than ever, is the time for all of us to examine how our proclivities, intentions and actions affect those around us. Furthermore, deep understanding comes from listening on all levels. The intention was to have the viewer examine their own psyche and their ability to empathize. The added challenge was attempting all of that while making the viewer laugh.

Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?

I’ve noticed that most people come out of the film with strong feelings and something to say. If you like feeling things and if you’re tickled by unusual movies you’ll probably enjoy ‘I Lost My Mind’.

How do personal and universal themes work in your film?

The film’s primary theme is agency; knowing that one has the power to make choices, exercise independence and make one’s voice heard. The character of Penelope is the personification of agency. Secondly, it’s a celebration of Toronto’s multiculturalism portrayed by the cast, set design, wardrobe, and saturated colors. And thirdly, the film is a declaration of my love for cinema.

How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?

The film is a very accurate representation of the script thanks to the stellar crew. I need to give honorable mention to my cinematographer, Adam Crosby, who did a beautiful job at capturing the essence of the characters and their environment. I also need to give huge props to my sound department, namely Mike Walther and Daenen Bramberger. The greatest challenge was recording and manipulating dual dialogue and they did a fantastic job.

What type of feedback have you received so far?

Most people really like the movie and that makes me very happy. The coolest thing is that everyone’s feedback is so personal. For example, a social worker told me she saw the film as a mental-health piece. A lot women have told me that they closely relate with Penelope. Many have shared personal accounts of objectification and harassment with me. To all of those women, thank you for bravely sharing your stories. Similarly, lots of guys have approached me and told me how they relate to Wolfy. To all of those guys, thank you for your honesty.

Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?

The feedback has enriched my point of view. Most people’s opinions came in the form of a personal story or anecdote. As a storyteller, this is gold to me. I thrive on criticism and so I appreciate anyone who takes the time to watch the movie and who tells me what they think and feel. That’s a gift I do not take for granted.

What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?

I’m just happy that the movie will reach more people. I think the sheer act of making (and completing) a movie is a miracle so knowing that it’s being watched around the globe is a trip. To all those who watch the film, thank you.

Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?

All of the above. The film industry is a community and we all need each other.

What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?

If I can entertain and spark discourse, I’ve done my job.

What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?

Is Wolfy inherently good or bad?

Would you like to add anything else?

I’d like to echo a sentiment from the movie. If you want to make something, make it. Use the tools you have. If you’re not already part of a community, create one. You can do it. You have the power. You’re awesome.

What other projects are the key creatives developing or working on now?

My producer, Shonna, just directed her first short. And my cinematographer, Adam has just created his own production company, Tiny Pictures. Love and luck to both of them and the whole ILMM family.

Interview: January 2018

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We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series, music video, women's films, LGBTIAQ+, scifi, horror, world cinema. 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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I Lost My Mind

Wolfy attends a community workshop and finds himself objectifying the facilitator, Penelope. Throughout the day he attempts to absorb her wisdom while wrestling with his restless mind.

Length: 15m

Director: Michael Tobin

Producer: Michael Tobin and Shonna Foster

Writer: Michael Tobin

About the writer, director and producer:

Michael Tobin is a director, screenwriter, editor, and musician from Toronto.

Key cast: Tennille Read, Tim Walker, Joshua Browne

Looking for (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists): all of the above

Social media handles:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MICHAELHTOBIN/

Twitter: @MichaelHTobin

Instagram: michaeltobin___ (that’s 3 underscores)

Made in association with: Body Parts Productions

Where can I watch it next and in the coming month?

Seed&Spark, ShortsTV