Interview: Ariella Mastroianni & Ryan J. Sloan On Their Self-Funded And Brilliant Thriller, Gazer
In anticipation of the release of Gazer, we caught up with director Ryan J. Sloan and star Ariella Mastroianni after their journey from a Cannes 2024 premiere to a wide release in the UK.
Gazer follows a single mother burdened by the psychological turmoil of dyschronometria, a condition which renders her unable to consistently perceive time. This results in an unstable, tiresome and difficult existence between not only her role as a mother distanced from her daughter, but also as a widowed wife, and now a suspect embroiled in mystery. Gazer is also the feature film debut for Sloan, a first-time director with limited professional filmmaking training and a true champion of independent cinema. Shot on self-funded 16mm, Gazer also stars Marcia DeBonis, LeJon Woods, Emma Pearson, Tommy Kang, Renee Gagner and Jack Alberts.
The pair discussed their creative journey through production, how their vision of the film was shaped, the positive reactions from premieres around the world and what’s next on their slate.
Gazer premiered at Directors’ Fortnight Quinzaine in Cannes 2024 and has received rave reviews, with comparisons to Lynch, Cronenberg and all-around iconic cult horror praises.
You can watch the full interview below:
Gazer opens in UK cinemas on July 25th.
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