Award-Winning Filmmaker and Advocate for Diversity in Cinema
What inspired the story behind “The Alliance 2 The Hunt for Breeze,” and how does it connect to the first film?
Inspiration for the sequel came after watching the unexpected success of the first film , I felt there was a lot of unanswered questions, and with all the characters, I could expand upon the story.
Can you share some insights into the character development of Breeze and what makes him stand out in this sequel?
In this film , you get a better understanding of why Breeze is the way he is. From his childhood, you will get a sense of why he has trust issues and why he only trust certain people in his life
The theme of family seems to be a central element in this film. How do you approach depicting family dynamics in a crime setting?
In most gangster/ crime movies,there is usually a family that controls a certain territory or product, so wanted to add that element in this film ,which was never mentioned in the first one.
What were some of the challenges you faced while directing and acting in the same project?
With the cast of over 100, I tried to schedule and direct scenes my character was not involved in first.
The film has a notable quote: “Family is every gangster’s weakness.” Could you elaborate on the significance of this line within the film’s context? For a gangster,family is considered sacred and off limits. But if you are trying to strike fear in your enemy, going after their family is the ultimate way to go. It can go 2 ways,either start a war,or cause a truce. I wanted to tackle bith aspects in my film.
With a budget of $30,000, how did you manage the production aspects to bring this film to life?
Well being that I financed the film all on my own, having a great script was a selling point to a lot of my returning cast and new cast members. Eventhough I could not pay them, they were all fed each day on set,also given film memorabilia, and they knew from the success of the first film in film festivals, there was opportunities for awards for everyone in this film as well.
The film has received numerous awards and nominations. Which of these honors means the most to you, and why? I think for me winning Best Original Story/Screenpaly or Best Original Concept means the most. In an era where there are so many remakes of classic films, original stories are not the main focus anymore, the art of story telling is disappearing.
How do you feel the characters and storyline have evolved from the first film to “The Alliance 2”?
They have evolved tremendously. More than I had expected. Each individual cast member brought their character to life in their own unique way.
What message do you hope audiences take away from “The Alliance 2 The Hunt for Breeze”?
That the art of original story telling is not dead. Give us indie filmmakers a chance, support indie films.
Are there any plans for continuing the story beyond this sequel, perhaps in a third installment or spin-off series?
There is a hint of a possible 3rd film at the end of The Alliance 2. I do have a concept, just have to make sure its believable to me. So stay tuned!!
About Director
Robert L. Butler Jr. is an illustrious indie luminary, a virtuoso in the realms of acting, writing, directing, and filmmaking, whose profound impact reverberates throughout the entertainment sphere. Endowed with an intrinsic ardor for narrative artistry, Robert has seamlessly woven a tapestry of captivating performances and visionary storytelling, ensnaring audiences with his unparalleled talent and boundless creativity.Throughout his illustrious trajectory, Robert has amassed a constellation of accolades, a testament to his unparalleled contributions to the indie film pantheon. Among his magnum opuses stand “The Alliance” and its sequel, “The Alliance 2: The Hunt for Breeze,” epitomizing his multifaceted brilliance.With an insatiable thirst for innovation and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of his craft, Robert continues to illuminate the cinematic landscape with his unparalleled talent and visionary zeal. As a beacon of ingenuity and excellence, his indelible imprint on the cinematic tapestry ensures his legacy as an icon of creative brilliance in the annals of entertainment history.