Its been a hell of a ride so far for the producers of controversialDonald TrumpmovieThe Apprentice.
you’re free to check out the backstoryhere.
This formallygot done todayso we were able to check in.
The ApprenticePief Weyman
Below is our chat.
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DEADLINE:How have the last five or six months been?
DAN BEKERMAN:I would say its been a combination of exciting and excruciating.
I think those two words are appropriate.
DEADLINE: Can you elaborate on the excruciating part?
BEKERMAN:Well, first of all, making movies is kind of excruciating in itself.
And this, you know, this was an incredibly ambitious, tricky production.
The whole process has had an aspect of struggle to it.
DEADLINE: Kinematics today formally exited the project due to creative differences.
When did it become clear that there was a significant issue with the producer-financier and their backer Dan Snyder?
And now Im just excited for the next phase in the life of the movie.
DEADLINE: The major turbulence really started around the time of Cannes, is that fair?
The homework was done at the script level, the research level and at the filming.
DEADLINE: Are you aware of anyone in the Trump campaign seeing the movie?
We have a super entertaining movie.
I dont feel the movie is compromised.
DEADLINE: Will there be any cuts ahead of release?
BEKERMAN:No censorship related cuts…
DEADLINE: Why did you launch the crowdfunding campaign announced today?
DEADLINE: Are you disappointed those distributors backed away from the movie?
BEKERMAN: I dont think disappointed is the is the word.
I think I have to be somewhat of a realist as a producer.
Wed be silly not to acknowledge that controversy can deter large corporations.
DEADLINE: How wide will the release be?
BEKERMAN: I think it could be quite wide.
DEADLINE: Do you expect your distributor Briarcliff to make good money from this movie?
BEKERMAN: I think that theres a lot of opportunity for everybody involved.
Briarcliff is a very exciting partner for us.
DEADLINE: Do you have any celebrity or political endorsements lined up for the film?
BEKERMAN: Theres various levels of interest in the film.
Politically, the film is non-partisan.
Were doing what art is supposed to do, which is create conversations that allow culture to evolve.
DEADLINE: You havent got long until you release…Is it enough time to mount an effective campaign?
BEKERMAN:Theres never enough time.
DEADLINE: Have you thought about the potential need for security at some venues?
BEKERMAN:That would need to be answered by Briarcliff.
DEADLINE: Will there be awards campaigns for the actors?
BEKERMAN: I dont want to comment on that but you could certainly guess what the answer might be.
The actors are all tremendous.
Briarcliff is best placed to speak to that, though.
