We were lucky to catch up with Josh LaCount recently and have shared our conversation below.
Josh , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
Every project has been meaningful to me in some way because each one teaches me something new and sets the stage for what’s next. But if I had to pick the most meaningful one, it would be my latest feature film, Melody Next Door.
It’s my first feature, and I threw everything I love about movies into it—nostalgia, time travel, heartfelt moments, and fantastical elements of adventure. I wanted to create a story that really resonates with people, blending those elements in a way that’s captivating and moving.
Melody Next Door tells the story of Nathan, a bitter man who stumbles upon a magical music box. The music box opens a portal to his past, presenting both his cherished memories and haunting regrets. Nathan’s journey through time forces him to confront unresolved conflicts and make choices that will redefine his present. The movie dives into themes of nostalgia, regret, love, and the pursuit of happiness.
Making this film has been a profound experience. I see the smaller projects I’ve worked on as stepping stones that led me here. They helped me hone my skills and prepared me for the challenge of making a feature film.
Additionally, this project was especially meaningful because of the incredible team that came together to make it a reality. We had a group of dedicated individuals who worked tirelessly, often wearing multiple hats, to ensure every aspect of the film was the best it could be. Whenever one department needed assistance, others would step in to help, creating a collaborative and supportive environment. By the end, it truly felt like we were one big family, all united by our belief in the project.
Melody Next Door is a story that delves into memory, regret, and the power of living in the present. I’m truly excited to share it with everyone. This film feels like a culmination of all my experiences and growth as a storyteller, and I hope it resonates with audiences as much as it does with me.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Movies have been a huge part of my life since I was a kid. Growing up on the East Coast, I discovered music early on. Music led me to acting, and eventually, I realized I wanted to make films too. I’ve always seen music, acting, and filmmaking as interconnected – they’re all about storytelling and connecting with people on an emotional level.
I’ve been lucky enough to explore all these creative avenues. After moving around a lot, I ended up in Los Angeles, which has been an amazing place to dive into the entertainment industry. I started out with acting gigs and also worked behind the scenes in various roles to learn as much as I could. I’m a firm believer in hard work and persistence. I’ve always been hands-on and willing to learn.
These days, I focus on writing, directing, and producing films. My projects span from short films to my debut feature, Melody Next Door. I enjoy weaving together drama, suspense, nostalgia, and fantastical elements to craft stories that are both captivating and emotionally resonant. My aim is to make films that stay with people long after they’ve watched them, and create a movie that I would enjoy watching myself.
One thing I feel that sets me apart is my background. My experience in music, songwriting, acting, and filmmaking allows me to bring a unique perspective to my projects. I don’t just focus on one aspect of filmmaking; I’m involved in every stage of the process, from writing and directing to producing, editing, and even the tone of the score.
Collaboration is a big part of my work. I love working with different people and bringing together a team to create something special. I think kindness and a positive attitude go a long way in this industry, and I always try to foster that in my work environment.
Melody Next Door is the project I’m most proud of. It’s my first feature and includes everything I love about movies – time travel, heartfelt moments, and a bit of adventure. The story follows Nathan, a bitter chauffeur who finds a mystical music box that takes him back to his past, forcing him to confront his regrets and make peace with his present. It’s a film about nostalgia, love, letting go and the power of living in the moment.
One of the things I’m also excited about in this film is that I also play a character in it. Without giving away too many spoilers, I take on the role of Oscar Murphy, the antique and novelty shop owner. He plays a crucial part in guiding Nathan on his journey, and I had a blast bringing him to life. Acting and directing in the same project can be challenging, but with the amazing team we had, it all came together beautifully. I’ve always admired those who can juggle acting, directing, writing, and producing because I deeply relate to the passion for being involved in so many aspects of the creative process.
What I want people to know about my work is that it comes from a genuine passion for storytelling. I pour my heart into every project, and my goal is always to create films that resonate with people on a deeper level. I’m excited to share Melody Next Door with the world and to continue making films that leave a lasting impact.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding part of being an artist is witnessing the transformation of a simple idea into a full-blown story on screen. It’s amazing how an initial thought evolves from words on a page into a screenplay, which then gets brought to life by talented actors and a score that enhances the entire experience. Seeing all these elements come together, with so many people contributing their skills, to create something that allows viewers to connect with the characters is truly special.
For me, making movies is always a magical process. Whenever I have an idea, whether it’s a short film or a feature, it consumes my thoughts until I can bring it to life. The challenges along the way are part of the journey, but the real reward comes when I see the finished product and feel that emotional connection with it. That sense of having achieved something meaningful and sharing it with others is what makes the creative process so fulfilling.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
My goal is to craft stories that resonate with authenticity, whether they’re grounded in reality or venture into the fantastical. I aim to create films that I’d be eager to watch myself, whether it’s a simple story of two people navigating their lives or an epic journey through time and space. I believe that with the right approach, even the most imaginative stories can be deeply compelling and engaging.
What drives me is a blend of passion for storytelling and a dedication to staying true to the characters. I’m inspired by the idea of transporting audiences to different worlds, providing them with an escape from everyday life. My goal is to offer viewers a unique and immersive experience, making sure each story feels genuine and impactful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.joshlacount.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshlacount
- Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/josh-lacount-89a944310
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/joshlacount