Interview: Stephen Michael Kelly

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A Masterful Force in Acting, Directing, and Scriptwriting

1. What artistic influences led you to create “No Mas”?

There was not a specific influence with No Mas. It was more like an intense one act play.

2.Can you share some of the challenges you faced during the production of “No Mas” and how you overcame them?

The blocking of No Mas was changed literally 10 min before shooting due to camera crew not being able to shoot the scene I had originally wanted. We blocked it in the moment.

3.How did you approach developing the characters’ depth and ensuring their emotions resonated with the audience?

Laura had input in her role as my wife. In real life we both are married and understand what that is like.

4.As both the writer and director, how did you balance these roles, and did one influence the other during the filmmaking process?

As the writer, I had a vision of that the scene should look like. ON set, the director takes over.

5.What kind of discussions or reflections do you hope “No Mas” will provoke in its viewers?

We had a lot of discussions in terms what made sense and was relatable. It had to be believable. She was very specific in terms of what would upset her if this had happened in her marriage.

6.Working closely with Laura Olivier, how did you both prepare for the intense emotional scenes depicted in the film?

We are both stage actors, it it actually came out organically. The scene she cried and I wiped her tear was completely unscripted. It just happened as we filmed.

7.Were there any particular cinematographic techniques or visual styles you employed to enhance the storytelling in “No Mas”?

I wanted it to be fairly tight, so somehow show off the tension and passion that the two characters had for one another.

8.Having completed “No Mas,” what insights have you gained, and how might they influence your future projects?

I loved the passion of No Mas, whether it was us almost getting divorced or my character being vulnerable and admitting to his mistakes.

9.What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers who wish to tackle complex and emotionally charged subjects in their work?

Make sure it is realistic and believable. Audience does not want to see a fantasy if it is supposed to portray something real-life.

About Director

Stephen is a multifaceted talent whose passion and creativity have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. As an actor, writer, and director, he has captivated audiences with his compelling work in acclaimed projects like “No Mas” and “The Righteous.” On stage, Stephen’s electrifying performances in productions such as “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas,” “The Mystery of Edwin Drood,” and “The Lilies of the Field” have garnered rave reviews and standing ovations.
His prowess isn’t confined to acting; Stephen is also a celebrated screenwriter. His two full-length screenplays, “Secret Messages” and “Retribution,” have taken the film festival circuit by storm, earning prestigious awards and accolades. Beyond the screen and stage, Stephen’s striking presence as a commercial print model adds yet another dimension to his impressive repertoire.
Stephen’s dedication to his craft and his unwavering passion for storytelling make him a true powerhouse in the world of entertainment.

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