Filmmakers Sam Pezzullo and Miles Anthony take us behind the scenes to reveal how the Hamptons brings the characters and stories of the premiere to life. Catch the film at the Hamptons International Film Festival and experience the unique charm of this setting.
Filmmaker Sam Pezzullo and fashion consultant Lisa Frohlich, Pezzullo’s stylist, walk the red carpet in the film The Premiere.
What do the Hamptons mean to you?
SP: The Hamptons is not just a geographical location... it’s a true community—and a very unique one. I feel so fortunate to live in such an idyllic place with all the beauty of Mother Nature, the charm of a small town, and the sophistication and allure of a big city. But beyond that, there is such a strong sense of community, and you are surrounded by so many successful, talented and interesting people with whom you can develop genuine, meaningful relationships because the year-round local community is so small.
MA: The land is special. The light is sacred. The people are hit or miss.
How does the Hamptons as the setting ofThe Premiereaffect the characters’ lives and choices? How does the film show insight into life in the Hamptons?
SP: Since it’s a mockumentary and the film primarily features non-actors playing versions of themselves in this universe we’ve created, you do get a glimpse into the local community and the characters who live and work in the Hamptons. From Shane, the coffee shop owner, to Jade, the tailor, it’s an ensemble of real-world-inspired characters and how their lives intersect with the overarching narrative following the main character, Sam, in comical and absurd ways. Additionally, since we filmed at so many local establishments and cleverly wove them into the story, it feels like the most extended, most creative commercial for Sag Harbor tourism.
Filmmaker Sam Pezzullo and fashion consultant Lisa Frohlich, Pezzullo’s stylist, walk the red carpet in the film The Premiere.
What was your favorite part about filming the movie?
MA: Working with Sam. He had a dream and he brought it to life. That’s a very rare thing in this world and an honor to be a part of. He was a supernova. Failure was never an option. Sam’s commitment to his vision was unwavering. His passion and energy were the foundation of the production. It’s a beautiful thing to be around a force of nature.
“I feel so fortunate to live in such an idyllic place with all the beauty of Mother Nature, the charm of a small town, and the sophistication and allure of a big city.”–SAM PEZZULLO
What does your ideal day look like in the Hamptons?
MA: Start with pancakes for breakfast. Then spend the day away from the world somewhere near the water with my beautiful wife and the two freaks (my dogs). Finally a night at home surrounded by Breadzilla sandwiches.
What type of audience do you thinkThe Premierewill resonate with the most?
SP: This film truly can resonate with a wide variety of audiences, from those who love Scream and similarly campy horror films to those who appreciate satire and dry, cringe comedy. I think this film will be popular with people who enjoy shows like The Office and Curb Your Enthusiasm as “well as classic mockumentary films like Best in Show and Waiting for Guffman, all of which served as inspiration for our film. More specifically, I know this film will be incredibly popular among those who live in or spend time in the Hamptons because there are so many Hamptons-specific Easter eggs and details for them to appreciate and relate to.
Photography by: PHOTOS BY JESSICA DALENE PHOTOGRAPHY
