I just finished directing my first feature film. The movie’s called Conflict of Interest and for a self-professed political junkie like myself, it was right up my alley.

The film was initially the brain-child of David Cuddy, owner of Ranch Studios in Kyle, Texas, a place where filmmakers can go, work, foster their ideas by utilizing the numerous set-houses by day and the hot-tubs (6ft deep) for relaxation at night. Elements that can help inspire some seriously creative ideas.

David brought me onto the project to help fill in some of the gaps and the organic process of creation spurned the Case of Katie Douglas.

What’s in a Name

Katie Douglas (Danielle Rene) was previously named Katie Combs, a name that caused me much chagrin due to it’s similarity to the name Katie Holmes. Within the course of the film, Katie witnesses a major crime and serves as the sole witness to the incident. The only one that took time to pay attention instead of just taking information at face value. But this brings her to the attention of some heavy people, in particular crooked Senator John Mordire (Michael Madsen).

Originally she was handled a little haphazardly. I nearly made the same mistake, but realized that an integral scene with her needed to be rethought. As often happens, the best things lie in the execution and not in the conception. Once the scene was shot, it was clear that its emotion resonance and significance were much stronger.

As a result, other planned scenes were modified to match the gravity of the reborn Katie Douglas scene, creating a strong seeming sub-plot which directly changes everything. One can sit down, plan out, think they know the ultimate outcome of a situation, but once the collaborative process of film starts to work its magic, greater things are born.

Only in filmmaking is it okay for artists to so heavily rely on each other in a primordial bath of ideas.