Episode Details

Mike Gallant and Seled Calderon join Damien Swaby to discuss BACKPAY, an independent neo-noir crime thriller about financial desperation, family and the consequences of believing one bad decision can fix everything.Written, directed and produced by Gallant, who also stars, the film follows Steve, a desperate father fighting to save his marriage. Alongside Murphy, a cop caught up in life as an informant, he attempts to extort a corrupt politician and crack a safe—with increasingly dangerous consequences.

Mike discusses how the frustration of chasing payments, rising living costs and providing for a family gave him a personal connection to the story. Seled reflects on bringing her experience as a mother to her performance and how a supportive crew helped her take emotional risks.

Their conversation offers a candid look at independent filmmaking, from developing a short proof of concept into a feature to overcoming self-doubt and creating opportunities for yourself.In this episode:

• Mike’s beginnings in filmmaking and Seled’s move from modelling into acting.
• Expanding BACKPAY from a short film into a feature.
• Financial pressure, wage theft and the responsibilities of parenthood.
• Casting and building a team of trusted collaborators.
• Balancing acting with responsibilities behind the camera.
• Creating a set where performers feel safe to explore.
• The influence of Michael Mann and Penélope Cruz.
• Moving beyond perfectionism and getting the film made.

BACKPAY stars Mike Gallant, Dwain Murphy, Seled Calderon, Golden Madison and Jason Pennell.Watch the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q12ypJOEb3g