Q&A with Filmmaker Max Scherr
Max Scherr
Max Scherr, a director from Russia. I am a 2021 Harvard College graduate in Visual & Environmental Arts with 7+ years in film production. I've done it all — from feature film screenwriting and live show production to assistant camera work and directing. I have an ultimate portfolio consisting of multiple music videos, numerous screenplays of various lengths, short films and other productions. I feel comfortable leading a team of creatives, bringing the best out of the people to realize the vision — whether it is my own or someone else's.
This Q&A is part of the Bushwick Film Fest
Hodge-Podge (2025)
What do you hope audiences will take away from watching your film?
We don't need language to understand each other.
Tell us an anecdote about casting or working with your actors
I put up a bunch of flyers in New York's Chinatown, translated into Mandarin, looking for an inexperienced actor. You see, I wanted an authentic person who actually couldn't speak English, but could give me that real, raw performance. One person reached out. Still using the translator, I scheduled a time for an audition. He came in and suddenly a big problem presented itself — we couldn't understand each other. So I guess we do need language after all.
Why is filmmaking important to you? Why is it important to the world?
It's a vanity thing.
How do you feel about your film being screened in front of a festival audience?
Terrified!
What three things do you always have in your refrigerator?
Greek yogurt, berries and salmon.
This Q&A is part of the Bushwick Film Fest Filmmaker Q&A series