Screenplay.com Interview with George Tillman

Filmmaker George Tillman, Jr. (Director/Screenwriter/Producer) exploded onto the Hollywood scene with the critically acclaimed 1997 film Soul Food. After taking in nearly $50 Million Dollars at the box office, Fox 2000 was quick to signed an exclusive "first look" deal with him and his producing partner Robert Teitel. Together they’ve formed State Street Pictures.

Their second film Men of Honor once again proves to be both the critic’s and audience choice. Despite fierce box office competition, the film’s debut in the No. 3 slot during opening weekend with an impressive $13 Million has garnered the attention of all the major studios.

Recently, Screenplay talked to this young prolific filmmaker about his new film, challenges, and vision for the future.

SSI: Have you felt it was your destiny to become both a filmmaker & screenwriter?

George: When I was eight years old, my mother took me to see the film Cooley High. The experience of sitting in that movie theater, hearing laughter, and feeling the positive response from the audience is something I’ll never forget. From that time on, I knew making films was what I wanted to be apart of. I wanted to move an audience the way that particular film did. Soon, I started writing my own screenplays. Later, I was a part of a great film program during High School. Yes, writing and directing is what I’ve always wanted to do.

SSI: What type of stories interest you as both a filmmaker and screenwriter?

George: I don’t limit myself, I like to keep challenging myself and using my talents to the fullest. My first major film Soul Food challenged me as both the writer and director. It was based on my family, people I knew, and included down home family values. The latest film Men of Honor took me to another level of storytelling altogether.

SSI: How did the film Men of Honor come to your attention?

George: It was during post production on Soul Food when my agent first presented the script by [Scott Marshall Smith]. Paramount Pictures had owned the film rights for two years, but had only sat on the script. I was able to convince [20th Century Fox] to purchase the film rights. Honestly, after reading the script I was intimidated because it was a big “grand scale” movie involving underwater filming – and I didn’t know how to swim! But at the same time, I was tremendously inspired by the heroic true story of Charles Brashear. After meeting him it became extremely important for me to make this film, to inspire others as he had inspired me.

SSI: What particular challenges did you face while making the film?

George: The most difficult was getting the budget down to a workable range which made Fox Studios comfortable. I had to cut scenes from the script, and establish an 82-day production shoot. The process took about seven months before an agreeable [$32 Million Dollar] budget was set. Then, I became fearful we would lose Cuba Gooding, Jr. and Robert De Niro. But those guys were wonderful, their passion and commitment to the film was solid. They stepped up to the plate and took giant pay cuts they normally would not accept for other films.

SSI: What was most rewarding about this particular film project?

George: My two favorite films are Cooley High and Taxi [Driver]. Having an opportunity to work with a few wonderful actors of those two films, actors whom I admired while growing up, was great! Robert De Niro is my favorite actor. Working with him and all those talented great gentleman was a dream come true!

SSI: Did you walk away with any new experiences that will make you a better filmmaker & screenwriter?

George: Yes. Oftentimes while on the set, things happen that cause you to change one direction or vision for another. As a filmmaker, I learned that your first intention is always your best I’ve learned sticking to my original intention, and trust my intuition.

SSI: What do you want moviegoers to walk away with most after seeing Men of Honor?

George: I wanted to make an [old fashioned] inspirational period piece, and in doing so I want people to be entertained. Equally as important, I would hope the determination and conviction of one man (Charles Brashear) [would] inspire people. I hope they find within themselves – as he did – the strength and courage to overcome any obstacle they so desire.

SSI: Where do you see yourself as both a filmmaker & screenwriter in the distant future?

George: Having a good body of work that people can appreciate and enjoy. Along the journey I would hope that work challenged me creatively, and perhaps inspire other filmmakers.

SSI: What advice would you give budding filmmakers & screenwriters?

George: Write your own material, and make your own movies. Somehow, I was able to raise $150,000 make my first film Scenes of the Soul. I later sold that film to Savoy Pictures for $1 million dollars. From there I got an agent, and doors to other things opened up for me. If I can do it, anyone can. You are in control of your own destiny, and as a filmmaker, writing your own material, and then putting that vision onto film - making your own films - is a big step to ensuring your future.