We recently connected with Roger Conners and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Roger, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Last year, I completed production on my sophomore directorial effort, an LGBTQIA+ themed slasher film entitled “MEAT”. While many of my previous works, be it in front of the camera or behind it, shared a heavy focus on the beautiful queer community and the challenges we face on a regular basis, “MEAT” has absolutely taken that to the next level. This is a film that features a narrative rooted deep within the community, focusing on the diverse and eclectic array of individuals that exist within it. And while it is marketed as a horror title, it has also proven to be so much more than that. This scale of representation, especially within a genre that rarely prioritizes it, is needed now more than ever.

Roger, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’ve been working on independent film sets since my early 20s, and I have worn many hats throughout the many years and experiences. I’ve done everything, from PA to Assistant Director, costume design, creature design, makeup FX, set decorator, you name it. And while I will always consider myself an actor first and foremost, I am a storyteller at heart. Directing a set is definitely when I feel my most balanced, my most on the ball, and my most motivated to go above and beyond to achieve what it is I truly desire from it. I mean, I work my butt of as an actor, but you get me in the director’s seat and there’s a different kind of pressure on your shoulders. If the film doesn’t work, it all falls back on the director and the choices they made along the way while bringing that project to life. That pressure is intimidating, but it definitely fuels my fire and pushes me to give everything I have. I’ll run myself ragged, burning through all of my resources and even my own finances to ensure the final product ends up exactly as I envision it, or at least as close as humanly possible to achieving it.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

My partner has asked me on multiple occasions “Why do you keep wanting to create film? It seems like it stresses you out!” The fact is, any job I have ever worked stresses me out. My stress stems from the fact that I want to give my all and do the very best I can. That’s a lot of pressure to place upon one’s own shoulders. Even working in a field you love is going to provide you with a massive amount of stress, I would say especially so! When you care that much, the idea of things not working out the way you hoped or envisioned them is intimidating. But, once I finish a film, being able to step back and see the result of not only my hard work but an entire team that I navigated and oversaw throughout that entire process, it’s truly the most satisfying sensation I have ever experienced. The amount of pride and joy I feel every time I get the chance to see my work screened for a responsive crowd, or discussing the intricacies of one of my films with someone who took the time to watch it multiple times over and really just gets it! Hearing their individual take on my art and all of the thoughts and ideas that they took away from it is honestly just so exciting for me. Those moments are immensely satisfying and it makes the stress so worth it.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

I feel that people who aren’t creatively inclined don’t always fully grasp the depth of passion artists have for their craft. For me, having an artistic outlet isn’t optional, it’s absolutely essential. In fact, going without it can have a real impact on my mental health. Like, if I go a few months without stepping on a film-set, I genuinely feel as though I start to wilt like a flower without water. There is a noticeable difference in my attitude and how I go about my daily tasks. Life starts to drag, one’s daily routine feels heavier, and I begin to yearn for a creative outlet where I can channel all of that pent-up energy. Over time, the absence of creative expression takes a clear toll on me. I know other creatives will understand exactly what I mean, but trying to explain it to someone who doesn’t experience that same drive or artistic passion can be incredibly frustrating.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.meatthemovie.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thescreamqueer/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RogerConners/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RisingPulseProductionsLLC
• Other: IMDb: imdb.com/name/nm3764137/?ref_=tt_ov_st_sm

Image Credits

Descry Photography, A.Farrenholz Photography, Zombae Brando Designs, Chad Michael Ward