We had the opportunity to interview Chicago’s very own talented filmmaker and director Christopher Nolen. He has a new movie called 72 Hours that opens today in Chicago and Milwaukee in selected theaters running from February 13 through 19th.
Tell us about your new movie 72 HOURS.
Christopher Nolen: I’m glad you asked that question. 72 Hours is a story that revolves around Chef Cleavon “Von” Burkett (Timon Kyle Durrett), a former ladies’ man who was living the good life with a beautiful wife (Erica Hubbard)–until one day he wasn’t.
A heart attack brings Von face to face with God (Harry J. Lennix), and God offers Von a second chance at life, IF he atones to ALL of his exes. With the help of his best friend (Brian Hooks) and the determination to live, Von embarks on a hilarious journey to seek redemption. Von soon realizes that hell hath no fury like the women he’s scorned.
72 HOURS stars Timon Kyle Durrett, Terri J. Vaughn, Brely Evans, Erica Hubbard, Harry J. Lennix, Brian Hooks, Cynda Williams, Tangi Miller, Chyna Layne, Christopher Nolen and Thea Camara.
What is the message that you want the audience to walk away with from this movie?
The messages I want to convey in this film are as follows: we all need to learn how to truthfully forgive, we need to understand each other (men and women), we need to communicate better with each other, and last but not least we need to love each other with our minds, souls, and hearts.
What inspired the making of 72 Hours Movie?
The inspiration for this film happened years and years ago when I saw so many people hurt from their previous relationships and marriages. I saw how bitter they were and it really hurt their lives. They didn’t want to forgive at all but one friend of mine learned how to forgive and it changed his life forever for the positive.
What’s in store for Christopher Nolen, the director for 2015?
I have several things in stored for 2015 as a director and producer. For a follow up film to 72 Hours I will be directing and producing a film entitled “Christopher Nolen’s Zodiac Sign.” I also have a few other projects on my slate that I will be directing and producing as well. My goal is to continue to make positive and inspiring films to go to the big screen.
What advice do you have for the aspiring film-makers?
The advice I want to give to aspiring filmmakers is to NEVER GIVE UP! It will get tough but you have to keep pushing. The odds are always against you but you can beat the odds with passion, persistence, and perseverance.
Photo Credits: picture owned and courtesy of Christopher Nolen