Forced Perspective

The Story of Artist Derek Hess

Client: Nick Cavalier Films
Services: Cinematography

Forced Perspective is a feature length documentary which premiered in 2015. Director Nick Cavalier approached us to help him accomplish his vision and story. We spent a week in Cleveland, OH shooting interviews, capturing footage, getting to know Derek Hess, and playing with his dog Rommel. We worked as a small crew and covered every corner of Cleveland as we bounced around interviewing Derek’s friends, fans, and colleagues.

Watch Now at Vimeo On DemandiTunesAmazon & Google Play.

After our initial production week, Nick enlisted the help of the talented John Pope (Blood Brother) to help capture additional footage. For most of 2014, Nick was tucked away in his editing suite finishing up the film while collaborating with Coat of Arms, See Music, Matthew Santos and other talented artist, filmmakers and musicians. The film premiered at the Cleveland International Film Festival on Friday, March 27th 2015 and has been screened at the festivals listed in the sidebar.

Synopsis

“Forced Perspective” is an intimate portrait of iconic Cleveland artist Derek Hess by filmmaker Nick Cavalier. The film is a journey through Derek’s struggle with alcoholism and bipolar and how these demons effect the artwork, presenting a voyeur into Derek’s personal life, revealing his process and philosophy. This film showcases the evolution of a celebrated artist, his effect on music and culture while highlighting the link between creativity and mental illness.

Awards

Local Hero’s Winner | Cleveland International Film Festival | 2015
Best Cinematography | Beverly Hills Film Festival | 2015
Best Documentary | Kingston Film Festival | 2015
Best Feature Film | Reel Indie Film Fest | 2015
Best Art Documentary Feature | Atlanta DocuFest | 2015
Platinum Award Winner | Spotlight Documentary Film Awards | 2015

Director/Editor
Nick Cavalier

Cinematography
Sergio Salgado
John Pope

Color & Animation
Coat of Arms Post

Sound Mixer
Ben Stockton

Producer
Marty Geramita

Executive Producer
Chris Rentner

Music
Matthew Santos
Chisuan Yang
Joel Coan
Dustin Currier
LT Magnotto