interview with julian lucas
Obscure split screens? Check. Melted chocolate in compromising places? Check. An affinity for movement? Check. Writer and director Julian Lucas is forging inventive productions that hold a bewitching draw.The newfangled concepts ooze creativity. It is clear from the get-go that each marvel is meticulously thought out, well respected and immaculately executed.
The Melbourne creative stumbled upon the industry in younger years and turned his passion into a profession. Lucas has a sure-fire knack for music videos, crafting thoughtful and remarkably diverse productions that are entirely captivating through all their little quirks. Influenced by those who push the boundaries, I am undoubtedly inclined to place him in that category. We caught up with him to talk paying the bills, Tropfest and the rush that comes with completing a project.
What initially drew you to film?
It’s hard to pinpoint the one moment that kicked it off. When I was in Year 12, I scanned through the VTAC guide and there was a course called Media in it. It had TV, Film, and Writing as its main elements; three things that I like, so I applied. My Dad always told me to do something that I like for a career – best advice he’s given me. I don’t think people follow what they love enough.
What kind of work do you do?
To pay the rent I do things like corporate, wedding, and event type videos. However, I prefer work where I have more creative control, which is why I’m drawn to music videos and short, sharp promotional, advertising, and fashion gigs. Live music too.
When did you realize this was something you wanted to do professionally?
Making my first music video. It was a real buzz and I wanted to keep it going.
What sort of camera do you typically work with?
At the moment a Canon 5D Mark III.
How would you describe your style?
I love flat, locked off shots, kind of like photographs where the movement within the frame does the talking. I need to be 100% happy with the concept before I start production. For me the idea is what’s going to make a film work.
What influences you?
Videos and people who push the boundaries and continually produce fresh material. Ok Go are an inspiration. Their music video archive is top notch.
Have you had any formal training in film?
We learnt the basics of film in the Media course I did at RMIT.
How are you working/operating at the moment?
I freelance under my own name. One day I hope to run my own production house, but right now I’m still working out where I want to steer the ship.
Are you working on anything at the moment?
I’m actually working on a couple of writing projects. One is a sitcom called Tradies with a writing partner of mine. We’ve been chipping away at the concept from a while now and hope to pitch it to networks later this year. The other is a script for Tropfest with a friend of mine. I’ve always wanted to enter Tropfest, and so this year I’m giving it a crack.
What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever filmed?
I poured melted chocolate on a topless girl for a music video once. That doesn’t happen everyday.
What is your proudest moment?
When Jarred Osborn and I were awarded the Runner-Up prize for Best Video of the Year in 2012 by Genero.tv. That was both unexpected and the recognition that made me feel like I was on the right path. You need that from time to time in a creative field.
What has been your most exciting project?
For me the excitement comes from finishing a project that I’m really proud of. Late last year Jarred and I made the music video for Son et al – See me Run. It was a concept I’d been sitting on for a while. Releasing that was a top feeling.
Would you happily do this forever, or are there other prospects in the future?
Yeah this is the field I want to work in. I’d like to have bigger budgets and work on larger scale projects. With persistence and a bit of luck I think I can get there.
What’s the dream?
Write my own TV show, be a successful music video and advertising director, and have my own production company.
What is/are your favorite film/s?
I prefer TV to film. Shows like The Office, Mighty Boosh, Seinfeld, Flight of the Conchords, Black Books and so on.
Where can we find your work/projects?
