Replay Revenge FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions on Replay Revenge;
with the director Basil Khalil

1- How did you come up with the idea for Replay Revenge’?

I was sick of the rubbish we all see on the news; it didn’t portray the right images and delivered the wrong message about the people living there from both sides. And since I have lived there for a long time and had a clear picture what it was like, I took the responsibility to tell the world the truth, from the people, and not from the mouths of lying government spokespersons.

2- How did you prepare for it with little experience and money?

I contacted many production companies and broadcasters with my ideas. They all rejected me, except for one little sweet company called Autonomi. They took me under their wings, gave me honest feedback and helped me develop my project. My priority was to have a clear vision of what I want to say, financial worries came later.

3- If you had to do it over again, what would you do differently?

I wouldn’t change much in the content of the film. But I would have contacted the editor before the shoot, and would have raised a bit more money for marketing and publicity.

4- What did you learn from directing Replay Revenge’?

Stay objective, be patient, things ALWAYS take longer than you plan for, FEED your crew, don’t be a smart-arse with an Israeli soldier – they always get their way-, take advantage of your young age to the maximum, don’t let anyone underestimate your talent, especially yourself.

5- What was the biggest challenge you faced while making Replay Revenge’?

I would say being accepted by the film industry’s big-wigs as a serious filmmaker. We didn’t face any major difficulties, except for the lack of money, but I saw it as a challenge. I was blessed to work with many talented and nice people who did me countless favours, asking nothing in return -that is priceless!

6- How did you get the Israeli army to cooperate being an independent?

Just picked up the phone and asked! The worst they can do is say NO!

I had to sign release forms to enter the west-bank stating; that if they shot me I won’t sue them. But in general the Israeli Army like the Media and went out of their way to help us.

7- Will you be making any more Middle-east related film?

There are too many Israel-Palestine related films out there, many of which are good. But if i find the right story to tell, I don't see why I shouldn't

I am currently writing and developing two feature films, dramatic-dark-comedy, and a documentary.
My future will be in fiction directing, as for style, I am very versatile, and will up for any challenge.

8- Do you think there’s a future for satirical documentaries?

Absolutely, I believe there are more fun, interesting and comical stories in real life than in fiction.
The colourful characters we meet everyday could be in a film of their own.

9- What piece of advice will you give first-time filmmakers?

1- Have original ideas –research them fully, know your market-, then get a Camera, make friends with someone rich and filmmakers, get as much feedback as you can, then set out and make it.

2- It is always helpful to say: - “We are making a student film, can we…” This worked wonders for me every time I used it (except for once with the BBC).

3- Treat your UNPAID crew the very best, you need them on your side for a very long time, and possibly on future projects.

5- 4 Enjoy your independence while you can, because one day you’ll be employed and will have to take stupid orders from everyone.

10- What’s your opinion on the Israeli Palestinian conflict, and where do you stand?

I think that as long as the human race is full of hate and revenge, the war will go on, no matter how many peace treaties are signed. And the Israeli Palestinian conflict will go on for a long while, but not for ever! So there is some hope.

As for where I stand, I have my opinions, based on facts I see, but they are for myself. I was brought up to stay away from politics, and that’s how I will go on.

11- How did you produce ‘Replay Revenge’ on a No-budget?

It is the best film-school, business-school and patience-school one could enrol at!

Just loads of fun. I started by asking friends and family to help out. My parents provided the transport, communications and office space. Friends provided accommodation, meals and advice. I hired equipment from a college; (a month’s hire cost as much as a week’s anywhere else). I managed to pay my crew something. Overall it gave me the ability to be more creative, and get more for less!

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