After watching Reel Montauk, people will gain an insider’s knowledge about “The End” and a newfound appreciation of one of America’s greatest towns.
When people mention the Hamptons you tend to think of summer beach shares, celebrities, Puff Daddy Memorial Day white parties and Billy Joel.
Having grown up in Long Island I’ve done my share of heading to the Hamptons for summer and even The Gurney’s Inn at Montauk but, there’s much more to the Hampton’s than that summer fun.
When the last bbq grill is cleaned and packed and everyone heads back home after Labor Day, life in the Hamptons continues for those that live there year round.
Independent film maker and local resident John Barrett sets out to show daily life in the Hamptons. His first focus is Montauk and the history of how it came to be in his upcoming documentary “Reel Montauk”.
Hosted by long-time resident Tom Bogdan of Montauk Adventures, “Reel Montauk” uses old footage, animation, original music and insightful interviews of long-time local residents to explore the natural beauty and rich history of Montauk.
The documentary is set to premiere in October but while you wait, you can catch the trailer right here followed by an interview with director John Barrett.
Interview w/Director John Barrett
When did you first become interested in making films?
I have always been interested in films and I worked in TV production in the 1980s as an independent producer.
What influenced you to become a director?
I became a director of “Reel Montauk” because I wanted to have more creative control over my film projects.
How did “Reel Montauk” come about?
“Reel Montauk” grew out of my experiences as a karaoke singer at Liars’ Saloon in Montauk, NY.
Tell us in 30 words or less why we should see Reel Montauk?
I wanted to capture the beauty of Montauk, NY before gentrification and development completely destroy its rich cultural heritage.
Is this going to be a one shot documentary or are you looking to develop it into a series?
I am interested in producing and directing other films about the Hamptons, NY, an area where I have lived since the early 1980s.
What has been your biggest challenge putting this documentary together?
The biggest challenge in putting “Reel Montauk” together is working with other individuals on a spec project and balancing their other careers with this independently financed documentary.
Where can we catch the premiere of ‘Reel Montauk’?
“Reel Montauk: is scheduled for release in late Fall 2014. My next project is to begin researching Sag Harbor, NY for my next in-depth Hamptons documentary. John B.
For more information about the Reel Montauk Documentary, please visit http://reelmontauk.com/
