by
on
under
∞ Permalink

Q&A with documentary filmmaker Brian Lindstrom

Posted on by

Brian Lindstrom is a Portland-based documentary filmmaker who broke through to the mainstream last year with “Alien Boy: the Life and Death of James Chasse.” The film explores the case of Chasse, a well-known fixture in the Portland indie rock scene and a schizophrenic, who died in Portland police custody in 2006.

Lindstrom, 54, was born and raised in Portland and has been producing documentaries here for years. One notable film, his 2007 work “Finding Normal,” followed three long-term addicts. It was broadcast on Oregon Public Broadcasting.

How (and why) did you get started in documentary filmmaking?

I became interested in filmmaking while in college. I was the first member of my family to go to college, and I put myself through school by working summers in a salmon cannery in Cordova, Alaska, doing work study jobs during the school year and taking out student loans. After I exhausted all the video classes at Lewis & Clark College, my video professor Stuart Kaplan gave me a gift certificate to take a filmmaking class at the Northwest Film Center. I made a short 16 mm cinema verite documentary about my grandfather and his cronies having breakfast at the cafeteria in the old Newberry’s at Lloyd Center.

How do you get funding for your work?

Grants from the Regional Arts & Culture Council have funded my films “Kicking,” “Finding Normal,” “To Pay My Way With Stories,” “Writing Myself,” and my current project about inmate moms at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility.

“Alien Boy” was funded by a grant from Spirit Mountain Community Fund and donations from over 1,500 supporters.

I saw you raised more than $15,000 via Kickstarter. How was that experience?

The Kickstarter experience was incredible. Very humbling and inspiring, the outpouring of support. It challenged me because my natural tendency is to kind of disappear in the background, and I had to be the public face of the project, which I was perfectly willing to do so that we might get funding to finish the film.

An Oregonian story quoted your ex-professor Stuart Kaplan saying that “Alien Boy” was “a major, major step up” for you. Do you agree, and could you talk about that?

I think what Stuart is referring to is that unlike my cinema verite films (“Finding Normal,” “Writing Myself” and “Kicking”), “Alien Boy” could not rely on a character or process to provide the dramatic momentum and structure of the film. Editor Andrew Saunderson and I had to uncover the twin threads of James Chasse’s personal life and the intricacies of the police actions and inactions that led to his death and the city’s response and lack of response. As filmmakers, we faced the daunting challenge of, how do you tell the story of someone who is no longer with us?

You worked on other projects while advancing this one. Could you tell me a little about this multitasking process and its pros and cons?

I think to take on a film like “Alien Boy,” you have to forge a strong identification with the topic and/or the main character of the film. We (producer Jason Renaud, editor Andrew Saunderson and DP John Campbell and myself) were driven to share James Chasse’s story, and to get at the bottom of what happened to him on Sept. 17, 2006, and why and how he died and who was responsible. There were many elements of this story that were outside of our control, such as the long drawn-out nature of the civil case and the judge issuing a gag order preventing Chasse family members from talking to us. I made two feature-length cinema verite documentaries (“To Pay My Way With Stories” and “Writing Myself”) during the time “Alien Boy” was being made. It can be a little crazy-making to work on various projects at once, but that is sometimes what is required to keep making films. Of course, there comes a time when all your energies have to be focused on one project in order to complete it. As T.E. Lawrence said, “Absorption is heaven.”

I found “Alien Boy” streaming on Amazon. Is there more of your work available online? How important is online distribution?

“Finding Normal” is available on IndieFlix. I think online distribution is crucial. As much as I love and prefer the theater experience of strangers sitting in the dark and sharing a cinematic experience, most people see my films online.

The movie had great footage of the officers testifying in court that really revealed their characters, I thought. Was access to that footage part of what inspired you to make the movie?

Actually, the deposition footage was given to us after we had already edited the film and thought it was finished. They completely transformed the film and in retrospect it’s hard to imagine the film without it. The deposition footage was given to us (along with the audiotapes of police interviews of the officers involved and the eye witnesses) by Tom Steenson, the family’s attorney, after the family settled their civil suit with the city.

The main impetus of making the film was really just a chance to share Jim’s story with a wide audience and to reveal at least some of his grace and his struggles, and to try to get at the bottom of what the police did and did not do that led to his tragic death.

I liked your use of animation to reveal elements of court documents and James’ art. Why did you make that choice?

Editor Andrew Saunderson and I were fortunate to have access to a lot of Jim’s letters, diaries, fanzines and artwork. Andrew began experimenting with After Effects and we were delighted with the results. Seeing Jim Jim’s writings and drawings “come to life” seemed to put the audience in Jim Jim’s head and by doing so furthered the audience’s identification with him. Which helps take some of the stigma away from mental illness.

The article quotes you as saying this movie tells the story in an “unconventional way.” What did you mean by that? I’m partly curious because I thought your sequencing of events felt really natural. How long did it take you to get to that point?

I’m happy to hear you felt the sequencing felt natural. Andrew and I worked many months trying to figure out the best way to tell the story. We gave every sequence a title and wrote it on an index card and put the index cards on the wall of our editing room, trying to find the best possible way to order the scenes. We finally realized that it was best for the audience to first understand who Jim was before dissecting the police actions and inactions that led to his death.

Has this project opened new doors for you as a documentarian?

It has. It is wonderful to be able to point people to Breaking Glass Pictures (the distributor of “Alien Boy”) or to Amazon on Demand, iTunes, Hulu Plus, etc.) when they want to see the film. And after being the guardian of James Chasse’s story for so long, it is very freeing to know “Alien Boy” is widely available so that people can access his grace and courage.

96 Comments

on “Q&A with documentary filmmaker Brian Lindstrom”
96 Comments on “Q&A with documentary filmmaker Brian Lindstrom”

  1. Hi there, You’ve done a fantastic job.
    I will definitely digg it and personally suggest to my friends.
    I’m confident they’ll be benefited from this web site

    토토 도메인
    토토 먹튀
    토토 사이트 도메인
    토토 사이트 순위
    토토 유저
    https://www.j9korea.com

  7. The process of consumer electronics design consumer electronics design typically involves multiple stages, including concept development, design and prototyping, testing and evaluation, and final production. Designers must consider factors such as usability, aesthetics, and affordability, as well as technical considerations such as power consumption, signal integrity, and thermal management.

  19. Nice post. I discover some thing more challenging on diverse blogs everyday. Most commonly it is stimulating to read content from other writers and use a little something from their site. I’d prefer to use some while using content on my own weblog regardless of whether you do not mind. Natually I’ll provide link on your internet weblog. Many thanks sharing. qqmobil

  23. Explore the historic charm and contemporary opportunities of real estate in New Westminster. From heritage homes along tree-lined streets to modern developments by the waterfront, this city offers a wide range of housing options. Find your ideal property and become a part of New Westminster’s vibrant community.

  26. Welcome the new baby boy with a personalised touch. Our range of personalised baby boy giftsincludes an array of charming items that can be customised with his name or initials. From cuddly blankets to playful onesies, these gifts are sure to make a lasting impression on the new parents and their bundle of joy.

  27. I would like to thnkx for the efforts you have put in writing this website. I am hoping the same high-grade blog post from you in the upcoming also. Actually your creative writing skills has encouraged me to get my own site now. Really the blogging is spreading its wings fast. Your write up is a good example of it. nondual teacher

  28. This process will be creatively actually the best option. Every single one regarding infinitesimal shows are usually designed through several traditions expertise. I would recommend the application a lot. mt5

  30. As a large scrap buyer in UAE , We Buy Dead Stocks possesses the necessary resources and infrastructure to handle substantial quantities of scrap materials. Whether you have surplus metal, plastic, paper, or any other recyclable waste, they have the capacity to accommodate your needs efficiently and effectively. Their well-established network of collection centers, processing facilities, and transportation systems ensures a seamless and streamlined process from start to finish.

  31. Blogs are usually a brief explanation of a theme or issue, in corporation it can be applied to advertise a pertinent web-site. Blogging might help improve the visibility of a websites and it`s services and products. With accelerated visibility come`s enhanced viewers and together with the boost in viewers, the possibility of prospective clients is accessible. rut tien 789win

  33. BSNS Consulting offers top-notch Taxation Services in Pakistan, catering to businesses of all sizes. Our experienced tax experts navigate the complexities of the tax landscape, ensuring compliance and optimising your tax strategy. Trust us to handle your tax planning, filing, and reporting, so you can focus on growing your business with peace of mind.

  41. Thank you for some other informative website. The place else may just I get that kind of information written in such a perfect method? I have a venture that I am simply now running on, and I’ve been at the glance out for such info. pakistani man goes

  44. This is the precise blog for anybody who wants to seek out out about this topic. You realize a lot its almost arduous to argue with you (not that I really would want…HaHa). You positively put a new spin on a subject thats been written about for years. Great stuff, just great! 沙龍百家樂

  45. Oh my goodness! a tremendous article dude. Thanks Nonetheless I’m experiencing challenge with ur rss . Don know why Unable to subscribe to it. Is there anyone getting similar rss drawback? Anyone who knows kindly respond. Thnkx Desert safari Dubai

  46. I?m no longer positive where you’re getting your information, however great topic. I must spend a while learning much more or working out more. Thanks for great info I used to be on the lookout for this information for my mission. Dune buggy rental

  49. This is really interesting, You are a very skilled blogger. I’ve joined your rss feed and look forward to seeking more of your magnificent post. Also, I’ve shared your web site in my social networks! IQOS Dubai

  51. This blog is definitely rather handy since I’m at the moment creating an internet floral website – although I am only starting out therefore it’s really fairly small, nothing like this site. Can link to a few of the posts here as they are quite. Thanks much. Zoey Olsen WGA Crytal Pro Max 15000

  53. This is my first time i visit here. I found so many informative stuffs on your blog, especially its discussion. Form the tons of comments and posts, I guess I am not the only one having all enjoyment here. Keep up the good work. Desert safari Dubai

  55. I discovered your blog post internet site on google and appearance some of your early posts. Keep in the really good operate. I simply additional increase your Rss to my MSN News Reader. Seeking forward to reading far more from you finding out down the road!… Desert Buggy rental

  58. Coming from my research, shopping for electronic products online can for sure be expensive, nevertheless there are some guidelines that you can use to obtain the best deals. There are continually ways to locate discount specials that could help make one to possess the best electronics products at the smallest prices. Good blog post. shrink wrap machine

  60. I admit, I have not been on this web page in a long time… however it was another joy to see It is such an important topic and ignored by so many, even professionals. I thank you to help making people more aware of possible issues. abs thermoforming

  67. After research a few of the blog posts in your website now, and I really like your method of blogging. I bookmarked it to my bookmark website listing and will probably be checking again soon. Pls check out my web page as nicely and let me know what you think. Doggy Daycare

  68. Thanks for revealing your ideas. The first thing is that students have a solution between federal government student loan and a private student loan where it’s easier to go with student loan debt consolidation than through the federal education loan. takeout wrapping machine

  71. I discovered your blog website on google and verify a couple of of your early posts. Proceed to maintain up the superb operate. I just further up your RSS feed to my MSN Information Reader. Seeking forward to reading extra from you in a while!… Referral code

  73. Write more, thats all I have to say. Literally, it seems as though you relied on the video to make your point. You definitely know what youre talking about, why waste your intelligence on just posting videos to your site when you could be giving us something informative to read? Miss feather hair extensions reduce image size in kb

  78. When I originally commented I clicked the -Notify me when new surveys are added- checkbox now when a comment is added I purchase four emails using the same comment. Can there be that is it is possible to eliminate me from that service? Thanks! 스포츠사이트

  79. I’m impressed, I have to admit. Truly rarely should i encounter a blog that’s both educative and entertaining, and let me tell you, you might have hit the nail around the head. Your notion is outstanding; the thing is an issue that there are not enough consumers are speaking intelligently about. I am very happy i found this in my look for something in regards to this. 네오골드

  81. Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive read anything in this way just before. So nice to uncover somebody by original ideas on this subject. realy thank you for beginning this up. this site are some things that is required on-line, someone after some originality. useful problem for bringing a new challenge to the web! Oundle family photographer

  82. Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive read something like this before. So nice to seek out any person with some unique ideas on this subject. realy thank you for beginning this up. this website is one thing that’s needed on the web, somebody with a little originality. useful job for bringing something new to the internet! condos for sale in puerto morelos mexico

  83. Can I merely say exactly what a relief to seek out somebody who actually knows what theyre discussing on-line. You definitely realize how to bring a difficulty to light and earn it critical. More people have to read this and see why side with the story. I cant believe youre no more well-liked simply because you absolutely have the gift. slot gacor

  93. Why It Must be Panama for Dental Surgery? The factors for obtaining your dental surgical procedure accomplished in Panama are numerous, like: Most of your training dental surgeons in Panama speak English Panama has exceptional arrangements for diagnosing, screening and providers. There is no shortage of USA-trained doctors It costs far less to have your surgery carried out in Panama than in US or any other Western nation US dollar can be utilized And above all, your postoperative care is complimented by a visit on the pure beaches and pure forests of Panama. Things to do in Khasab

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *