Exclusive Interview: Writer/Executive Producer, RG GRAHAM (The Boatyard)

What made you want to get involved in the film industry?

As a successful entrepreneur, I have always relied on my dexterity and cognitive skills to excel in various industries. From music to nonprofits and even home building, I have found success in all my endeavors. However, it was my passion for the film industry that led me to enter this fascinating world. I noticed that the film industry was struggling to deliver content that truly captivated audiences. It seemed that the essence of storytelling was being watered down. So, I decided to bring my expertise and entrepreneurial spirit to make a difference. My main goal was not just to make a profit but to have fun while working and create impactful content in the film industry. This way, I could contribute to the growth and success of this dynamic field.

From script–to–screen, how close did THE BOATYARD come to its original vision?
The Boatyard script, which began in my living room a few years back, was a vision that I shared with my close friends at the time. The movie itself was a close depiction of my life, minus the killing, of course. I had the incredible fortune of hiring the talented director, Dale Stelly, who possessed a remarkable agent. Together, they assembled a truly wonderful cast, all of whom were eager and excited to bring this script to life. As I watched the movie unfold before my eyes, I found myself at a loss for words to express how this professional cast exceeded even my highest expectations. The realization of this project has been an extraordinary journey, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have witnessed my vision come to life on the big screen.

What was your favorite day on set and why?
All of the days were truly special, but there were a few that stood out the most in my memory. These were the days when I got to witness the true resilience and professionalism of my director and the cast. Even when things didn’t go as planned, they never lost their focus and pulled through to deliver exceptional results. It was a sight to behold, watching my director, who is also a good friend, Dale, switch into beast mode and take charge of the situation. His unwavering determination and ability to adapt truly amazed me. It was during those moments that I gained a newfound appreciation for him and the art of directing.

What is the biggest obstacle you faced while making THE BOATYARD?

Oh man, let me tell you about the day that we rented the movie studio to film. It was supposed to be a smooth and exciting experience, but little did we know there was no one coming to open up the studio. It felt like a comedy of errors, as if someone had forgotten that we had booked the place. It was frustrating, to say the least. In the end, we did have to reschedule the shoot. But hey, it may have started off on a sour note, it was ultimately a testament to the strength and resilience of our team. We didn’t let a minor setback derail our dreams. We stayed focused, remained understanding of the circumstances, and ultimately filmed a sick scene!

What was your proudest moment during production?
Seeing it from the inside out and witnessing the incredible talents that came together to bring this project to life, has been an awe-inspiring experience. It’s an incredible feeling to see the vision and dreams become a reality right before our eyes. This team of young and immensely talented actors have not only created something extraordinary, but they have also formed an unbreakable bond, becoming a family in the process. In just 10 days, we transformed the raw script into a captivating horror film!

How do you get a film to stand out in the crowd in today’s landscape?
One of the main reasons that strongly motivated me to write the boatyard was my simple desire to watch a genuinely good movie. Nowadays, production companies seem to be churning out an overwhelming amount of content that, unfortunately, often ends up being watered down and lacking in substance. With this in mind, my mission became clear: to create a film that would not only captivate and entertain viewers, but also leave them with a sense of satisfaction and a yearning for the magic of the silver screen to continue.

What other filmmakers inspire you to do what you do?
Spike Lee has always been a source of inspiration for me. Not only did he create his own groundbreaking movies, but he also established highly successful production companies. His ability to build strong relationships throughout the industry is something I truly admire. Martin Scorsese, known for his masterpiece “Good Fellas,” is another filmmaker who has deeply inspired me. His storytelling skills and attention to detail are remarkable. And of course, we can’t forget Stephen King, the undisputed king of horror. His ability to captivate readers with his chilling tales is truly awe-inspiring.

What is your favorite horror decade and why?
The 80’s, Halloweens blueprint! It’s classic horror.

What is the next step in your filmmaking career?
As one of the creative minds behind these projects, I have had the pleasure of writing and producing several stories and sequels for the Boatyard franchise, so there is more to come! Also, we have a delightful rom-com in the works that will surely warm the hearts of our audience. We believe this delightful genre will add a touch of lightheartedness to our collection of films.