Mark Stafford, Writer/Producer of BASTARD’S ROAD: FGW Interview at 2020 Naples International Film Festival; a veteran's journey back "home" after war

Mark Stafford, Writer/Producer of BASTARD’S ROAD: FGW Interview at 2020 Naples International Film Festival; a veteran’s journey back “home” after war

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WHO DID WE TALK TO:

Mark Stafford, Writer/Producer of BASTARD’S ROAD

Mark Stafford BASTARD’S ROAD — BASTARD’S ROAD

WHAT’S THE STORY BEHIND THE INTERVIEW:

This was an interview we did during the pandemic. The film won Best Documentary Feature at the 2020 Naples International Film Festival. There is also an appearance by Azzy the cat AND the interview is mis-labeled on the You Tube channel. Uhm…awesome?

WHAT’S THE FILM ABOUT:

Like many combat veterans, transitioning back to civilian life was very difficult for Jon Hancock. After years of struggling, Jon decided to take an epic journey across the country – on foot. Walking nearly 6,000 miles alone, Jon confronts the demons that had overtaken his life. Visiting his fellow 2/4 Marines – a unit known as the The Magnificent Bastards – and families of their fallen along the way, Jon finds a mission greater than his own redemption.

WHAT DO WE TALK ABOUT:

We talk about what it means to be a “writer” on a documentary. Mark also talks about embracing the idea that you start off with ideas that you know will eventually be thrown out. We also discuss a moment in the film – and the decision making process to do that – where Brian, the director showed John, the film’s central subject, interview footage they had to get his reaction at that point. Finally, we get to one of my favorite questions: what was the moment that Mark saw or experienced that inspired him to think that was what the entire movie was about.