Local independent filmmaker Connor McFarlane is preparing to release his latest project, a crime-comedy action film titled “Thrifters.”
“It's a comedy, crime, kind of fun action thriller, and it'll be here in theaters in Rexburg, Idaho Falls area on October 3rd,” he said. “It's one of my favorites I've ever done.”
The film stars local actor and stuntman, Hondo Hendricks and features many local businesses.
“A lot of the locations in this film are my favorite restaurants, my favorite antique and thrift stores in the Idaho area, in the Rexburg and Idaho Falls area,” McFarlane said.
McFarlane, who wears many hats in the filmmaking process, took on multiple roles in the production.
“I wrote, directed, filmed. I was the cameraman. I've edited the film. I wrote some of the soundtrack,” he said. “And I've been the producer and all over the distribution and publicity for it as well. I run the Instagram and yeah, I'm getting it in theaters and all that stuff.”
Working in many different roles is something Mcfarlane believes will set him up for a future in the industry.
“It is a lot of work, but I love doing it because I think it's preparing me to one day when I can do just one of these roles,” he said. “I love directing because of the connection that you get to make with people.”
His passion for film began at a young age when he began experimenting with his mom’s professional camera equipment and creating LEGO stop motion videos.
“I love independent filmmaking. I love doing it here in Eastern Idaho,” McFarlane said.
McFarlane encourages others with creative ideas to get out and make films.
"You know there are people they’re so much more talented, so much more creative than me, and I wish that they would just get out and film something,” he said.
“Thrifters” is set to premiere on Oct. 3 in theaters across Rexburg and Idaho Falls. For more information visit the film’s website.
To hear more about McFarlane’s creative process and other projects, listen to the full interview on BYU-Idaho Radio’s podcast on Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.