An Interview with Joe Cornet
We have some special bonus content today… an interview with director/actor Joe Cornet. Cornet helmed the recently released western actioner, Gunfight at Rio Bravo (he also plays the sheriff!).
Check out the Q&A with Joe below and stay tuned for my review of Gunfight at Rio Bravo coming to the site on Friday…
Q: Your new movie GUNFIGHT AT RIO BRAVO is out now; how did it all come about and what appealed to you?
A: GUNFIGHT AT RIO BRAVO came about as a result of discussions I had with Alexander Nevsky shortly after being introduced to him. I had pitched him an idea about a western script I was working on and he suggested combining an action oriented film with a classic western setting. The idea of mixing these two genres appealed to me. Action and western films both have heroes, villains and physical challenges, so why not? It sounded like a fun concept.
Q: What is your favourite part of the whole process?
A: I really enjoy directing. I look forward to finding the tone, rhythm and pace of a movie.
Q: You are working with a great cast that includes Olivier Gruner, Alexander Nevsky and Matthias Hues; how would you describe your relationship with them?
A: Each of these guys is a certifiable bad ass while at the same time being three of the most likeable guys ever. Matthias brought a very subtle, sinister performance while bringing a great sense of humor in between takes. Olivier was believably heroic as his character. Of course what more can I say about Alexander? He is the ultimate action hero. He is also a talented producer.
Q: How did you approach your character Sheriff Vernon Kelly?
A: Sheriff Kelly is damaged goods. He clearly had a dark, criminal past but he is trying to redeem his soul by being on the side of justice. That was my approach to the character.
Q: You have some action scenes in GUNFIGHT AT RIO BRAVO; can you talk us through putting them together and the challenges you faced as an actor and director?
A: Action sequences really require some preplanning and discipline. It helps if the actors know the basic moves in advance. Also, having a pro like Art Camacho on set to design and choreograph the action is the real secret. As far as being both an actor and a director within the same film, it is two different mindsets which you keep constantly in balance. My original training was as an actor and I think like an actor when I direct. I have been told by a very dear film legend friend I am an “actor’s director”.
Q: What was it like working with fight choreographer Art Camacho?
A: Art is a total pro! Always focused and always prepared. He can also design an action sequence on the spot. It is really amazing to watch him work.
Q: What was the atmosphere like on set?
A: We had a fun set. Everyone wanted to be there and everyone wanted to work with each other. The location, Gammons’ Gulch in Arizona, really helped put everyone in the mood.
Q: Being a slightly different kind of Western for you in its tone, what differences were there in how you had to approach this film? What kinds of adjustments were made?
A: It was actually very simple. I tried to bring the classic western vibe (with a touch of Italian westerns) to the action film genre. I think we pulled it off!
Q: You have directed as well as acted and produced in the industry. What is harder to do and which one is more rewarding?
A: They are both difficult. Don’t let anyone ever tell you otherwise! As much as I enjoy finding a character, directing is the most rewarding to me.
Q: What do you hope audiences take away from GUNFIGHT AT RIO BRAVO?
A: I hope they have FUN! Film is available everywhere on Digital, DVD and On-Demand!
Q: What else can we look forward to seeing from you next?
A: Get ready for our new horror film, NIGHT OF THE CAREGIVER. It is a creepy tale of the paranormal with a touch of satanism. It stars Natalie Denise Sperl and Eileen Dietz (THE EXORCIST). Additionally, I just finished shooting the sequel to GUNFIGHT which will be released in the near future. Titled TAKEN FROM RIO BRAVO, it will feature more action and some interesting new characters.
