I am Brett Donowho, director of THE OLD WAY with Nicolas Cage! Ask Me Anything before it hits theaters THIS FRIDAY, JAN. 6!

EDIT: NICOLAS CAGE SAYS HI! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpm3hIzT0vg

Oh holy shit, what's up Nicolas Cage

He says hello!

Excellent, now I can go and see The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent and then die peacefully knowing my life has been well lived.

OH, and The Old Way! ;)

MICAH: Massive Talent is truly fantastic! Don't miss it. And of course, go check out THE OLD WAY in theaters!

"A Cage-y terroir that only years of silverscreen refinement can bring, along with 250mg of caffeine per serving."

FILM INDUSTRY: We aim to please!

Should I also watch Paddington 2?

MICAH: PADDINGTON 2 is one of the best movies of the last ten years. Highly recommended.

What’s up? how about his CagEnergy! It’s unpronounceable unless you’re Cage.

Cage-ner-gee

MICAH: Let's see if we can get Liquid Death to can it and sell it.

MICAH: It's unlimited. UNSTOPPABLE.

Hello, hello!

/tips cowboy hat

I love AMA cameos.

MICAH: They are the best, right? :)

Looks like one of them bought greetings, like the one O’Leary does all the time rofl. Also nice potato for filming

MICAH: I went to the finest potato rental house and spared no expense in renting the best potato, perfectly calibrated for potato cinematography in order to film this message!

What does The Cage smell like?

Brett: A gentle musk that only emanates from a true superhero of the silver screen.

Just as I've always imagined xD Ty for the answer!

Haha! you are very welcome.

This is mostly for the producer but how did Hannah Gutierrez-Reed get hired? Was she just another film nepo baby? (I guess that's the term now)

Also in the films wiki it said a prop gun was accidentally discharged causing Nicholas Cage to walk off set. How did you handle the situation with prop guys? And while Gutierrez reed was a head armorer on your film do you think your handling of that situation played a role in the rust film incident?

For those out of the loop Gutierrez-reed was the armorer on the Alec Baldwin's film rust where a cinematographer was accidentally shot and killed with a prop gun.

:EDIT: Interesting, their line producer replied but 10 minutes or so later the reply was deleted. I guess the producer above the line producer and him is staying away from this.

But from what I recall from the reply the line producer hired her and said she was definitely not a nepo baby but a hard dedicated worker. Safety was their priority and the difference between her role on this film and the other one was she only had one role as armorer and on the other film she had multiple roles besides being an armorer. And as far as the accidental prop gun discharge on their set, he didn't want to comment as media tends to take it out of context and control.

Also in the films wiki it said a prop gun was accidentally discharged causing Nicholas Cage to walk off set.

MICAH: This incident never happened. The wikipedia source is a tabloid known in the film industry as "The Crap"

Micah: In general terms, when a film is produced for more than $10 million, where does this money come from?

MICAH: It often comes from investors and finance companies that specialize in funding films, like our company Intercut Capital. When done properly, film finance is not the fly-by-night risky venture that many people make it out to be. It is similar to financing a construction project, with hard collateral in place and a completion bond to ensure the film is completed and delivered. Casting name actors is a part of that safety, too.

This is honestly pretty interesting in itself.

MICAH: I love talking about producing, finance, production, etc. So feel free to ask away!

Does this “big name factor” have anything to do with recent animated films using well known actors despite it may be an odd fit?

Mario movie, for example

MICAH: Y'know, I'm not 100% sure as animated films are far from what I do. But I can tell you that everywhere else in the live action film industry, that answer would be yes. Casting isn't just a creative endeavor. The actors you cast give the movie a "safe" financial value.

If possible, can you get into what "hard collateral" is referring to and what a "completion bond" is (how it works)?

Sure, happy to answer. The collateral that makes an independent film safe is financial collateral: tax credits and pre-sales contracts.

Let's say I'm going to produce a $4m movie. How do I make that safe? First, I shoot in a state that has a good film tax incentive that is worth about 25%. That's $1m in hard collateral. Second, I get 1-2 big names in the movie so I can presell domestic territory for $2m. Then I presell as many of the foreign territories as I need to to raise another $1m. That's $4m in executed contracts that WILL pay out as long as I can deliver the movie. Well, how do I ensure that I can deliver it? I close a completion bond, which ensures that the movie will be completed and delivered. Then, I sell the rest of the foreign territories and I'm in profits!

A completion bond is just a type of insurance that ensures the movie is completed.

How does this completion bond work when you have someone like the old Lindsey Lohan just getting stoned out of her mind and blowing off production? Do they threaten to break kneecaps? Can they force an actor switch and would that jeopardize the presells?

MICAH: Generally speaking, some actors are just not bondable. And becoming unbondable as an actor or a director is a huge blow to your career. It means you basically can't work on bonded movies. Some actors are similarly uninsurable and that also has a drastic impact on their careers.

Is that why so many shows have "made in Georgia".

So states are paying you to film there?

Thank you

MICAH: Yes, some states require you to include a "Made in Georgia" in order to receive tax incentives.

“Hard collateral “ sounds like a good movie title

Like a straight to video title from back in the day

MICAH: Starring JEAN CLAUDE VAN DAMME and ROB SCHNEIDER.

Please. Starring Rob Schneider and featuring Jean Claude van Damme.

MICAH: Would only work if Rob Schneider is his character from JUDGE DREDD (a movie I rewatch religiously and unironically).

MICAH: Hell yeah it does.

There's a good documentary called "The Producers" that explains all this.

MICAH: I'm a Mel Brooks superfan, so this is my favorite comment of the day!

Is it true that all directors are also camera operators, but not all camera operators are directors?

MICAH: That is definitely not true. There are all kinds of directors with different backgrounds. Some, like Steven Soderbergh for instance, choose do direct, DP and operate! Some know very little about camera, but they have an expertise in acting, stunts, production design, VFX, writing/story, etc.

I like to say that directing is really a second career. First, you need to be a successful writer, DP, actor or stunt coordinator, and then you get hired to be a director to bring those skills to the chair!

Thanks! You've settled a pub debate.

MICAH: Glad to help! I also answer filmmaking questions on Tiktok (@MicahHaley)

Kevin Smith talks about this when filming Cop Out with Bruce Willis. He (smith) knows nothing about the camera work. He describes what he wants and his DP shoots it. Willis was not impressed.

MICAH: That's actually an older style approach to the job of director, so it's by no means new. There are many different ways to do it, but all of them involve working with other people.

Is there a particular Nic Cage story that really stands out to you from your time together on set?

Brett: Nick is such an amazing human and a consummate professional. I have so many stories. I guess the one that stands out the most is on day five having lost my 1st AD Nick comes to set and after noticing that I am there AD’ing my own set he comments to the crew, “well if Brett has to AD his own set I’ll be my own stand-in” and proceeded to stand in for me and camera himself.

Micah: Nicolas Cage really is a consummate professional. Not only is he an immensely talented actor, but he comes to set every day prepared and gives it his all. You'll hear a lot of positive generalities coming from the mouths of people promoting their movies, but in Nick's case, every word of it is true. He's a delight.

First off, congratulations on the new film! It's always exciting seeing a new project come to life. Question: would you happen to need any grips or gaffers on any upcoming projects? I'm breaking through from doing freelance work to full-force production and tend to ask anyone in the industry if they need help. Cheers!

MICAH: What city are you in?

Upstate, NY

DM me.

FYI a gaffer is the boss of the electric dept., so I wouldn’t say “gaffers” if you’re looking to break in.

You can say electrician, set electric, spark, juicer…but if you say gaffer they’ll think you mean the chief.

Hierarchy is gaffer — best boy electric - electricians

Key grip -- best boy grip — grip

There’s some othe nomenclature in there like rigging, dolly, etc but that’s the basics.

Unless you're on a student film. Then, everyone's a gaffer!

[deleted]

MICAH: What script is this line from? GREENLIGHT.

What is the process like for getting star talent attached to a script/film?

Micah: Attracting the interest of name talent is always first and foremost about the material. If you don't have an excellent script, you're going to get a lot of NOs. Having a script written by Carl W. Lucas definitely helps! If your script isn't where it needs to be, then the actor's team will filter it out before they even get to read it.

Second, talent has to be available! This is perhaps one of the biggest obstacles for producers right now: movie stars are now doing television, almost without exception. We live in a world where Harrison Ford just starred in a TV series! Where Jeff Bridges and Meryl Streep are doing TV! And television just requires more of each actor's time, which means they aren't available to do as many movies.

Third, being able to make a cash offer definitely helps. An offer that is backed by a finance company like Intercut Capital, Capstone, etc tells the actor's reps that the movie is real and will be made.

Are there going to be bees? If so, how did Nicholas respond to the idea? If not, can you add some before release?

Micah: We've budgeted for an allotment of honeybees to be released inside each theater on opening night!

😂😂😂

MICAH: Hey! I got them cheap off the guys who made that last WINNIE THE POOH picture!

Your only other movie (where you are credited as director) with a Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes is Acts of Violence from 2018, with a 0% rating. It also happens to star Bruce Willis, who's been in a string of awful movies in the last decade. All of the movies you directed on RT also have an audience score of 32% or lower. With Nicolas Cage's movies also being super hit and miss, what's a good reason to go and see The Old Way besides possible guilty pleasure?

BRETT: Agreed. There have been many movies I have made over the years to support my family. I feel really blessed to have survived so long in one of the hardest businesses in the world. MUSIC WITHIN I consider my last great movie and now THE OLD WAY is something I'm really proud of. I hope others feel the same way.

Bravo for A. Even answering this Barbara Walters type attack question, and B. Answering it like a real person.

MICAH: Brett's a standup guy and a straight shooter. The perfect guy to direct a Western :)

Thank you for the honest answer. I also hope people will appreciate your movie and it becomes one of Cage's better ones.

BRETT: Very welcome! I look forward to sharing the movie with everyone on Friday!!

Super fair play to you for answering this question so straight up. I’m going to watch your movie now, and I don’t even like westerns!

BRETT: I'm honestly honored whenever anyone chooses to watch a movie I've been a part of.

MICAH: Thank you so much for your support, it really is meaningful to us!

How much directing did Nic require on set or did you let him do his thing?

BRETT: I started as an actor so Nick and I hit it off as we both spoke the same language and had many conversations about what some would say the lost art of acting. Directing is being able to communicate a vision and then collaborate with the cast and crew you assemble to hopefully bring about a piece of art reflecting the talent of those under the “big top” if you will. As someone else mentioned. I have made movies to support my family but now I am trying to make movies for the art and I am really proud to say the cast and crew came together and we made something really special here. Everyone contributing their own perspective and art form with me steering the proverbial ship. Cage needs no “direction” but as a pro and talented artist, joins the team to collaborate and contribute his vast wisdom and experience to the collective art. I am honored to have been able to work with him and look forward do doing so again.

Is Nicholas Cage good or bad? Its for a school project I'm working on with Abed, I'm afraid his sanity is at risk here so an answer would be appreciated.

MICAH: Quick! Think of something safe, like Holly Hunter! Or Don Cheadle!!!

Meta meta meta, cool cool cool. Thanks, I'm going to watch that movie because of your comment!

MICAH: it was an older meme, but it still checks out. Haha, thanks!

How difficult is it, in this era of marvel blockbuster cinema, to get a western financed? I remember like 10+ production Company logos at the start of „The Sisters Brothers“.

Do they make their Money back? Or do they front the money because they just love the genre?

Cheer and good luck.

MICAH: Westerns are difficult for two reasons: limited foreign interest and high cost of production. They sell for less, and they cost more to make than, say, horror.

They can make money! But it has to be made by budget-conscious filmmakers who understand what they are doing. And I don't think many people invest in movies just because they love the genre! Everyone is looking to at least get their money back.

is that a green screen in that picture?

Brett: That is 100% me in front of the pyramids in Cairo!

How many takes are normal before you get a good shot ?

BRETT: This all depends on the director, the camera crew and the actors. Personally, I like to work fast and it's one reason actors like working with me. I have definitive opinions about what I want, so tend to never take more than seven takes per setup. I literally sit there watching the monitor as if I am watching the film and asking myself if I believe the moment. And if the emotional beat I am trying to obtain is captured, I move on. And have done so on Take One. But then you yell, “perfect! take two for safety!” lol

How many times have people gotten annoyed at safety takes?

MICAH: It's such a regular part of the filmmaking process, I don't think anyone really minds. A safety take is always better than trying to re-create the shot later because you didn't get something you needed!

is this movie any good?

I might go see it in theatres, since I'm a fan of mental health and also of revolvers

MICAH: I honestly really enjoyed it. It's a father/daughter story! The pairing of Nick with Ryan Kiera Armstrong is really great - Ryan goes toe-to-toe with an Oscar winner and holds her own! There just aren't that many opportunities to see classic Westerns on the big screen anymore, so I think THE OLD WAY is a real treat.

Plus, it's something you can bring your parents to, even if they don't typically love going to the movies. One of my favorite memories of my grandpa was taking him to go see the Coen Bros' TRUE GRIT in theaters before he passed away. Hopefully, someone else can take their grandpa to see THE OLD WAY.

Is it true Mr. Cage will never turn down a role?

Also, recently rewatched lord of war, god that’s a great film.

MICAH: Nick is one of the most in-demand actors in the world and I'm sure he turns down more roles than you can possibly imagine! haha. And I love LORD OF WAR, too!

Any particular movies or shows that served as an inspiration for the movie? Also cannot wait to see the movie!

BRETT: I grew up watching Westerns (esp sitting with paw paw and maw maw watching RAWHIDE and GUNSMOKE) but when tackling this project, I decided to go back and watch as many Westerns as I could. From Howard Hawk's RIO BRAVO and RED RIVER, to Gregory Peck in HIGH NOON, Eastwood in THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY to his directorial masterpiece UNFORGIVEN. Of course TRUE GRIT and my personal favorite in modern times, TOMBSTONE. But something about Sergio Leone’s ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE WEST that I watched several times. That stuck with me. In approaching THE OLD WAY, Sion (my amazing DP) and I discussed at great length about making a modern movie that had both the aesthetic and “feel” of these iconic westerns, yet with a fresh take. To both give a feeling of homage to these greats, yet with a modern twist. So yea. I watched so many movies and then let that resonate and express itself through the decisions I would make.

MICAH: I love all the Westerns Brett mentions above! The Western is just one of the great cinematic genres, and I hope people who like THE OLD WAY go back and watch some of the classics.

The Man who shot Liberty Valance has to be in the top 5, IMHO.

MICAH: 10/10 superb film. Long overdue for a rewatch, too!

Is he such an awesome person in real life as he seems to be?

MICAH: He is! Nick is one of the all-time greats for a reason.

How do you go about writing scripts? Do you have a preferred software?

MICAH: I prefer writing HIGHLAND 2 and like FADE IN a lot as well. In production, though, FINAL DRAFT is used by most people so it's helpful to know it.

Nicholas cage is truly one of my favourite actors. I've loved everything I've seen him in, particularly Con Air and Face Off. But I feel like he is underrated as an actor by many people and doesn't get nearly enough recognition with awards.

As a director why do you think that might be the case?

MICAH: I think Nick gets a lot of recognition! He was recognized with an Oscar for his performance in LEAVING LAS VEGAS. That's about as good as it gets. I think what you're referring to - this feeling that he's underappreciated - is related to the blockbusters. Nick has starred in some of the biggest movies of all time, some of which have lots of bells and whistles that can distract from an excellent performance. That's just part of being a superstar.

Who do you have to thank for getting where you are today?

BRETT: Well if I start listing names, I am sure to leave someone off, right? I can’t help but say God - that might sound trite. But I am a small town Texas boy who had a dream and the stubborn Southern work ethic to follow that path. It's faith and hard work. People forget how much hard work is required to make it in the film industry. I said that as someone who is the total opposite of a nepo baby. I have worn many different hats in this business successfully because I try to do what I call “surf life." I like to say to young artists, "Set your flag, your goal out in the ocean, and then take the next wave that comes." It will inevitably take you in the opposite direction of said flag. But as each wave comes in, you get closer and closer and finally reach the flag. Then, you realize it's time to move it further out and set new goals. That's a long-winded artistic answer to say, “The journey is the thing.” As you grow older, you realize some of the wisest words ever spoken. Arrival is not the goal. It's the road less traveled. It's why we are told to smell those damn roses along the way. And arrival to me is about perspective. The fact that I’ve made one movie, much less two dozen, is more about my desire to learn and grow and just enjoy this path! But to your point, it has taken thousands of people - some good, some bad, right? - to help me along this journey. I honestly appreciate them all.

MICAH: I'll add to that: my parents and family.

Why did you release a movie near Avatar?

Are you intentionally sabotaging it's release?

MICAH: Ha! There's no stopping James Cameron. I have laughed for 10 years at the people doubting he was going to make AVATAR 2 a success. AVATAR will have been in theaters for several weeks, and THE OLD WAY is really counter-programming to it. AVATAR is this big VFX heavy movie that required tons of technology to make. In contrast, THE OLD WAY was made with dirt and horses and cowboys in the middle of nowhere. Honestly, I can't think of a better double-feature.

Where did the financing for The Old Way come from?

MICAH: The film was financed by Intercut Capital and Capstone Global.

What topics would come up between you and Cage when making idle conversation?

BRETT: It may sound trite or made up, but we both happen to love acting and film. So much so, that whether it's over dinner or on set, our conversations tended to revolve around our passion, which is art in all its forms, and filmmaking. We also share mutual friends, so that would come up. But in general, we just talked acting, filmmaking, travel, and the stories two fathers would share about life and growing older and thus appreciating what truly matters in life.

Hey, Brett! Working with someone can be tiring, specially when it's so intense and emotional as when you direct a movie. That being said, there are people who make things feel easier to handle just by being there - and, sometimes, you don't even need to know why, this feeling just kind of happens!

Is there an actor, actress or any other person involved in the production that made you and everyone around feel this way?

BRETT: Yes, working with me can be very tiring indeed! LOL. But to your point - I am serious when I say this - there are two people that made a tremendous impact on the peace and tranquillity of this set. The first being my actor Big Mike played by Abraham Benrubi. This is the first time we have worked together but the gentle giant that Ben is - with his wisdom, candor and wit - brings levity and peace to all situations. He was a true light and I love that man. The next person on this set that lit up the room whenever she arrived, and without whom I probably would have had a cardiac arrest, is none other than my director’s assistant and daughter Brooke. She is a light and a spirit that is unlike anyone I have met before. I take none of the credit for this. However, as you say, making a film is tiresome and very difficult and I am so proud that one of the many lights we had on set that brought joy and a breath of fresh air happened to be my progeny. And trust me when i say this: everyone would agree. I am not saying this as the proud father I am but it's something that would be said with or without me. Go Brooke.

MICAH: Can confirm. Abraham Benrubi and Brooke are amazing. I would also add to that Sugey Cruz, our fantastic COVID safety officer, who worked tirelessly - she was always pleasant and I would have her on any set.

Micah: How can an independent film go about getting a theatrical release?

MICAH: Getting a major star like Nicolas Cage certainly goes a long way towards convincing a distributor that a theatrical release might be profitable. Very few movies get a theatrical release and the expense and difficulty of marketing movies seems to get harder and harder. So hard, in fact, that lowly producers sometimes end up eating homemade nachos and mainlining Diet Mountain Dew while answering AMA questions on Reddit (I'm also catching up on ANDOR, but that's besides the point!)

But there are movies that make it into theaters all the time without major stars! Look at the success of TERRIFIER 2 - a movie I foolishly passed on! It's doing extremely well. There are also out-of-the-box opportunities to get your movie in theaters, like doing a Q&A tour. Kevin Smith has really pioneered a fantastic business model alongside his personal appearances. Don't be afraid to approach theater chains directly with an opportunity to get your movie on their screens.

Hi from Japan! I hope to see your movie in theater someday soon. I suppose that make my question when will it get to Japan?

MICAH: I will check on this. Check back with me on Twitter (@MicahHaley) if I don't respond.

Are there any movies about a gunslinger in the prime of his gunslinging career?

MICAH: Yes, I'm writing my biography as we speak. I HAVEN'T EVEN BEGUN TO PEAK.

The Ballad of Buster Scruggs, although that's only one of the short stories in it

MICAH: Fantastic film!

Was there an (action) scene where you got it in an unexpected low amount of takes? Like "Damn, I can't imagine we just got this in just 3 takes".

MICAH: I think action scenes by their very nature require a lot of coverage, so you might have a single setup that's one-take, but for the most part you should expect to have multiple cameras and multiple takes.

a few years ago i told you your future was so bright the sun would be your shadow. hate to say i told you so, but… 😉

so my question is this: how is it you’re still one of the coolest people i’ve ever known?

xo

BRETT: Hi Vicki! You are too kind. And to those that don’t know Vicki and I worked together she is not a stalker but a badass production accountant!

My only question is why did you spell his name Nick instead of Nic?

Nah, serious question, was there any sort of eccentricity about Nic Cages acting methods that might not be common knowledge?

I'm sorry, I'm not familiar with your work or I'd ask a more relevant question, but I plan to look into your stuff now.

Actually, there's a question. From your previous works, what would you recommend someone new to you start with?

BRETT: As eccentric as I am, I didn’t notice this! Maybe that’s why we got along so well now that you mention it! LOL. That's just how Nick spells his abbreviated name. I have not asked him why. And truthfully, I am most proud of raising three amazing intelligent daughters but as mentioned someone today MUSIC WITHIN is the picture I am most proud of prior to THE OLD WAY. A picture that started with a true story and a speech on a stage and one in which Steve and I took from that kernel of truth to a screenplay, financing, distribution and to the world over a three year period. Takes time to make a great movie and that one was a labor of blood sweat and tears and it shows to be sure.

MICAH: I think Nick just prefers the spelling "Nick."

Oh wow, I was completely unaware that that was how he spelled it. My friend group from the past 15 or so years have always been under the impression that Nic was the correct spelling. I feel a little embarrassed now, thank you.

And I'll definitely have to look for Music Within, thank you so much for your response!

MICAH: haha no worries. Definitely check out MUSIC WITHIN!

Love it! Would you be down to come on our podcast as a guest sometime and talk about your movie and film career? 🤔

DM me.

I would like to get into the marketing or business development side of film, what's the best way from your perspective I should begin?

MICAH: There are plenty of jobs in this sector! If you are just starting your career, I would look to get an entry level job at a distributor, streamer or studio and work your way into the marketing department. It's the best way to learn that side of the business.

What is your favourite thing about being a director? And what is the biggest decision you've had to make in regards to a film?

BRETT: The best part of directing for me is that, as an artist who started out as an actor, there are no other jobs that allow one to act out so many roles simultaneously! I get to act through my actors and participate in the creative process collaboratively. There really is no “high” or “creative joy” one can find like emoting through all of your characters and building the world they inhabit. And not to be glib, but in my professional opinion there are no small decisions and thus all are big to me. That and the reality that there is literally a truck load of questions and decisions that must be made on a moment by moment basis. They all feel even more massive by the very nature of the ticking clock that sits next to you, counting down the time in which you have to answer.

What props/items did you and/or Nick Cage keep from this movie?

BRETT: You will have to check eBay in a couple years! LOL. But here is a picture of a gift I gave everyone at wrap, including Nick: https://imgur.com/fS258VT

That’s awesome. Appreciate a good behind the scenes momento or two. It’s all about the stories!

MICAH: I've been using mine around the house!

well i know Brett kept a blanket

MICAH: He must've watched HATEFUL EIGHT and knew how cold it was going to get this year!

This is always the first thing I wanna know

MICAH: Always ahaha

Will you be answering any questions about the movie Rampart?

MICAH: I mean, hey, yeah, we were mostly just hoping for questions that focused on RAMPART.

Wow my first answered AMA question lmfao 🤣

MICAH: This might be my first Western but it ain't my first rodeo haha

Brett: What makes this movie different from other Dad-young daughter go on a self discovery trip flicks?

BRETT: To say I had a bias when I first picked up the script would be an understatement. Westerns are one of my favorite genres and I had just spend six months in China prepping a sci-fi Western before Covid shut us down. However, it wasn’t just the homage this script paid to rich plot traditions of loss and revenge in classic Westerns. It was the fresh take of showing this story through the father and daughter relationship of Colton and his daughter Brooke. The journey we go on discovering the relationship between this retired gunslinger and his daughter and the story of two people on the spectrum learning about themselves and each other. I have never seen a Western like this! As someone who is a huge advocate for the disabled (I grew up interpreting for the deaf) and the misunderstood of our society, I found the story of a father and daughter caught in the solitude of their own loneliness, their isolation from a world they don’t fit in, inspiring, moving and irrespective of genre, a story that had to be told. As a father myself of three daughters, the journey of Briggs and Brooke as they find common ground with their disability and learn to find love as a father and daughter makes this a movie that I hope will both touch the viewer and inspire us all to take the journey of discovery and understanding with our friends and family. As Cage describes, these characters are a mystery and it is my hope this will compel the audience through the story, not just to see what happens with this revenge journey but more importantly what will happen to the relationship between Colton and his daughter Brooke. As they are both seemingly emotionless individuals, it is the journey and discovery of this disability and the commonality of how father and daughter view the world that allows them to open up, to communicate with one another, and hopefully find love in the midst of tragedy and pain. This relationship to me is what the entire film is about.

A western with Nicholas Cage? You have my attention.

MICAH: Nick delivers! Definitely worth checking out on the big screen. Score is amazing.

When a polished script is packaged or partially packaged but stuck in development, what are some common reasons for it getting stuck in development in this type of scenario?

MICAH: I'm an independent producer (working primarily outside of the studio system) so I can mostly speak to the obstacles that projects face in our orbit. We work with a lot of producers and directors who are bringing us their packages / partial packages in the hopes that we will finance them.

1) The polished script is usually... not that polished! It's very common to encounter scripts that have some major issues, even if they are from veteran screenwriters. They may be too long (longer than 120 pages). They may have weak dialogue. They may not have a role that is strong enough to attract a major name (a requirement for financing) and that role needs to be revised to attract talent.

2) There's no director attached, or there's a director who doesn't have a track record of being able to attract talent. Name actors want to work with talented directors.

3) There's a potential sales problem with the script. Maybe there is some highly controversial political storyline that 50% of the country is guaranteed to dislike. Maybe the subject matter is too niche. Certain genres are more popular worldwide than others - which is why you see more action movies and thrillers than, say, movies about a guy who never leaves his mom's basement. Foreign is a major part of a movie recouping and getting into profits, so the worldwide market has to be considered.

4) It's just too expensive to make. Some scripts are just so big, so expensive that ONLY a major studio can finance them. They get stuck in development until the writer or producer realizes this, and starts to revise to work on a lower budget.

And many more! :) Happy to answer any specific questions along these lines.

Thanks for the answer. As a follow up to 1., what causes an unpolished script with problems such as you laid out, to be fast tracked to a packaging position while it's still unpolished?

MICAH: Many reasons why. Sometimes producers/directors just honestly aren't aware of the issues. Sometimes they have a name actor interested or even attached, but with an expectation that the script will be rewritten before shooting. At the end of the day, everyone has to eat, and every studio/producer has to make SOMETHING, so scripts that are less than perfect get traction. But that doesn't mean they'll get across the finish line.

Is Nicolas Cage nice? He seems nice.

MICAH: The nicest. A really pleasant guy to work with.

What inspired this movie? Can’t wait to see it!

MICAH: You will have to ask the screenwriter. I'm trying to get him to do an AMA this Friday.

Were you star struck when you saw him / interacting with him for the first time?

BRETT: There is a level of respect that I give to all humans but having been in this business for so long and have had “famous” friends. I don’t really get “star struck”. I would actually categorize it more like a kid on Christmas morning. I am excited and in my ADHD crazed artist self I am just thrilled I get to create art with someone I admire and will bring their A game.

What's your least favorite part about making movies?

BRETT: The down time between not making them.

MICAH: Running out of craft service coffee.

BRETT: The down time between not making them.

When shooting, how do you keep yourself in a healthy routine with food, sleep, exercise etc?

It always seems like a challenge to take care of your body/mind while working such long and unusual hours.

BRETT: haha! I am not sure this is possible or even reasonable. I mean, hey, it may be on a large studio picture or maybe on the set of the iconic (and my number one hero) Clint Eastwood who refuses to shoot for more than eight hours a day. But my life is far less glamorous as I tend to work at least 20 hours a day. Eat when and if I have time and emotions allow. The exercise I received consists of my ADHD pacing and running around set all day for 12-15 hours because i find it impossible to sit in one place and love being in the middle of the action. On a serious note as I have gotten older, I have learned the benefits of intermittent fasting and between films I try my best to eat healthy and stay in shape as much as possible. I was just in Budapest, one of my favorite cities, scouting for a future project and now am in Cairo. This past month, I have been getting back in shape for the next show and eating extremely healthy, so it's definitely more of a cycle for me. One of the my favorite parts of myth life is that I can work my ass off for six months and then have time off between movies to see the world and get back in shape.

MICAH: My approach is somewhat different. I insist on shooting ONLY in cities that have the finest pizza delivery options known to man. Bonus points if Krispy Kreme is nearby.

Were there any westerns that were especially influential when developing The Old Way? If so, what about them helped influence the final result?

Answered here: https://old.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/101jjhe/i_am_brett_donowho_director_of_the_old_way_with/j2oc7a3/

Hey man, super cool for you to chat with us normies. Appreciate it. I've always been so intrigued by directing. How do you even break into that industry? Not even to mention get good enough to make it to the big leagues? Given it's essentially anonymous behind the scenes nature. I've always wondered how you even break in and start making connections etc... not even for only filmmakers but actors aswell. Do you have to "know somebody" to get your foot in the door? If starting completely from scratch. Thank you in advance!

MICAH: Too much emphasis is placed on nepo babies. Neither Brett nor I knew anyone in the film industry before we started our careers. I lived way outside of the industry and it seemed very far away. I'd say about 95% of the people I've worked with in film are not nepo babies.

That said, you do have to get to know people. Your network has a great impact on how far and how fast your career grows. But most people build their networks will working in the industry. They get in at the bottom and work their way up. The film industry works on an apprenticeship system, so you will need to have many mentors along the way. Try to get as close as you can, make friends, work hard in any capacity you can, and keep moving. You're career will grow.

Is your name pronounced like “Don’ know who” or “Donohue” or something else? I’ve never seen this last name, or variation on spelling. Is this a change that you did to make your name stand out?

BRETT: I certainly am not on here pretending to be famous but I do love my name! I am proud of my Irish heritage. My last name originated as an O’Donoghue from County Cork, the famed Irish lineage. As my grandfather told me years before passing, when our clan came over to Ellis Island and came off with their Irish brogue, no one could understand them and so they literally wrote “Do..no…who” pronounced DON….O…WHO, as it sounds. What is more interesting is that anyone that spells it this way is directly related to us. That's how I found my cousin and “brother” Ryan Donowho by looking up our family genealogy after seeing his name in the credits one evening.

Why are craft services so important?

MICAH: Food and coffee make everything move. Good catering and good craft services are essential to good morale. And it can be difficult to find good food when you are shooting out in the middle of nowhere, like we were on THE OLD WAY! I remember so many days when I was coming up where I'd had almost no sleep and my brain was frozen like molasses in winter. But, there waiting for me when I arrived on set was a freshly brewed cup of coffee. It means a lot.

What was the funnest thing that happened while filming?

BRETT: One of the best stories and a true testament to how amazing Nick Cage really is: on one of the hardest shoot days of the entire production, Nick came to set cracking jokes with me and lightening the mood. He knew the stress I was under. While I am not gonna share the jokes, what made it poignant was how the star of the show was so empathetic. He knew my stress level and chose to lighten the mood with jokes. And they definitely made me laugh!

Does he spell his name 'Nic' or 'Nick'? I thought it was the former.

MICAH: He prefers "Nick"

How can you expect to make money in theaters when everything is streamed now?

MICAH: This is actually a great question. The truth is that most independent films are financed so that they work WITHOUT a theatrical release. There's no doubt that theatrical took a big hit during COVID, but it's hard to look at the massive success AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER is having right now and think that theatrical is dead. It's really not. People still love going to the movies, in particular when it's something special. And a Western starring Nicolas Cage is pretty special!

A theatrical release also requires the support of distributors that believe in the movie. We're honestly very fortunate to be working with the good people at Saban, Lionsgate and Capstone, all of whom have been so wonderfully supportive of THE OLD WAY. When a film like THE OLD WAY gets a theatrical release, it's really a blessing. One I'm personally very thankful for.

The what now? How did I not know this was coming out?

MICAH: There's been a little independent film called AVATAR that's been dominating the media for the last month LOL!

What timestamp contains your favorite frame of the movie?

MICAH: ooooo. Great question. I will have to go through and find it for you!

Is this going to be a terrible as the last 100 films nick cage has been in? He went from A list to C list in 10 years.

MICAH: I think it's an entertaining sit with some memorable characters. Definitely worth the watch. Also, Cage has been A-List since the 90s. Never left.

Was it hard directing Cage? Or was he pretty open to direction? He seems a bit eccentric in real life, so I was just wondering how that translated to his work ethics. Thanks!

BRETT: I think I may have touched on this already, but I wanna take the opportunity here to say that our entire cast from Cage, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Dean Armstrong her dad, Noah LeGros, Clint Howard, Abraham Benrubi, Shiloh Fernandez, Nick Searcy, Kerry Knuppe, Boyd Kestner, Adam Lazarre-White, Sklyer Stone, Corby Griesenbeck, Beau Linnell, Jeff Medley…. seriously all of them and some I am missing I know but everyone that my casting director Farrah White and I found were not just exceptional actors but were collaborative and open and part of the “big top” company as I said earlier coming to be a part of the artistic endeavor that is The Old Way. If you ask you will definitely find out that I am Texan and not afraid to share my opinion but I come without ego and strictly to try and lead everyone to make the best possible artistic endeavor we can make for the budget and time allowed. And hopefully better than either allow!

MICAH: Some people might have this perception that Nick is an eccentric, but on set, he is an absolute pro. He knows how films are made, he's directed his own films! If you haven't seen his film SONNY (2002) which stars James Franco and the legendary Harry Dean Stanton, then please do yourself a favor and check it out. It's really wonderful. And Nick has worked with the greatest directors of the last 50 years. So I'm sure he has a deep well of filmmaking knowledge. And every day, he brings his A game to set.

How are the pyramids? They're definitely on my bucket list to see one day.

BRETT: Categorized as one of the seven wonders of the world and I would agree. If not just for their magnitude… for their mystery.

MICAH: A visit is on my bucket list too!

Got Milk?

MICAH: I truly wish I had some.

I would like to ask three questions:

How is it like to work on a filmset?

How would you advise one on how to start in the film industry?

How to focus and follow through with a creative projekt?

MICAH: I'll do my best to answer! I discuss these topics a lot on Tiktok though, so feel free to ask followup questions there.

How is it like to work on a filmset?

It can be stressful, primarily because of the long hours, but it's also exciting and it feels like you're really doing something special that people will have the opportunity to enjoy 50 years from now.

How would you advise one on how to start in the film industry?

The film industry works on an apprenticeship system, so you have to take an entry-level position and work your way up.

How to focus and follow through with a creative projekt?

I think the real key to this is making sure that you absolutely LOVE the project you've chosen to work on. It's not enough to think "I might like to make that!" You have to really love it and want to see the project through to the end. It's not difficult to make that decision, but it is difficult to follow through on it.

How far from fame has Nic fallen, or is it that he is so buried in debt, that he has to make these low budget movies on repeat forever!?

MICAH: None of this is true LOL

How bored and simple are you, that you think this is a valid question?

MICAH: The internet is like a bridge: there's always a troll underneath haha

Someone should make a movie about hunting trolls.

MICAH: We can call it THE TROLL WAY.

Bahahahaha

MICAH: LOL. I do this for a living, believe it or not.