Exclusive Interview with Filmmaker P.J. Starks: Behind the Scenes of ‘The Last Sleepover,’ ‘New Fears Eve,’ and ‘Half-O-Ween!’ | PopHorror

Filmmaker P.J. Starks has carved a niche in the indie film world as a writer, producer, and director. Known for his works like 13 Slays Till X-mas, Volumes of Blood, and The Boy From Below, P.J. recently shared insights about his current and past projects.

New Fears Eve

P.J. conceived the idea for New Fears Eve while driving during the shoot of 13 Slays Till X-mas. The title intrigued him, and after the success of the former, the opportunity arose to bring it to life. Initially planned as an anthology, the film evolved into a single narrative. This shift meant they could explore deeper storytelling without being boxed in by anthology expectations.

Collaborating with Jeffrey Reddick, a horror legend, was rewarding. Their friendship has grown over the years, making it a joy to work together. P.J. noted that Reddick’s involvement was invaluable, especially during post-production and distribution. He humorously suggested that Reddick used the film as an excuse to visit his sister in Kentucky!

The film’s festival journey has been memorable. The premiere in Manhattan was a highlight, especially since P.J. had never visited NYC before. He cherished the experience of screening a slasher film in front of a New York audience. The mixture of comedy and horror in New Fears Eve resonated well, and the film won over fifteen awards, including a nomination for a Fangoria Chainsaw Award.

Collaborations

Inviting Felissa Rose and Dave Sheridan on board was a game-changer. P.J. admitted he never imagined working with them. He reached out through a friend, and after reading the script, Felissa enthusiastically signed on. Her connections brought Dave and Hannah Fierman into the fold, creating a solid lineup of industry talent.

P.J. fondly recalls casual Friday evening chats with Dave, where they’d share stories beyond the film, making the process even more enjoyable. Directing Felissa was a treat; her kindness and dedication left a lasting impression.

The Barn Part III

When asked about The Barn Part III, P.J. expressed that the first film’s success was unexpected. He appreciates how this indie franchise has continued to grow. Currently, they are in the production stage, and the set visit was energetic, with late-night shooting that was intense but rewarding. Meeting new crew members and seeing old friends added to the excitement.

The film promises to be packed with gore and thrilling moments, thanks to special effects wizard Cody Ruch. P.J. noted that while the film amps up the drama, it still delivers on the horror fans crave.

Exciting New Projects

P.J. is also involved in another project, The Last Sleepover. The plot centers around a high school reunion gone wrong, mixing nostalgia with chills. Co-written by Gregory Brock and Austin Rutherford, the project has a vintage slasher feel. P.J. contributed to enhancing the action sequences, aiming for a visceral impact that fans of the genre will appreciate.

He’s also gearing up for Half-O-Ween, a slasher film directed by Stephen Wolfe. P.J. believes it’s a fresh take on the genre, mixing dark comedy with horror elements. Filming is set to take place in Los Angeles, promising to attract genre enthusiasts.

The Bigger Picture

P.J. Starks’ journey reflects a growing trend in indie horror: blending humor and frights while developing rich narratives. As creators like him push boundaries, audiences are treated to innovative storytelling that merges laughter and terror.

With horror gaining a strong foothold in modern cinema, projects like P.J.’s showcase how indie filmmakers are not only preserving but also evolving the genre. Collaborations with established names further amplify their reach, inviting diverse talents into the spotlight.

For more about P.J. Starks and his films, you can check out interviews and updates on platforms like PopHorror.

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