James Peniata
He is the Producer of Mark Zimmerman‘s Rest Stop Dollar Baby Film.
SKSM: May you introduce yourself to our readers?
James Peniata: My name is James Peniata and I am a Writer, Director, Actor and Producer. I have worked behind and infront of the camera in both film and television productions for over 10 years and enjoy trying new things to perfect my craft.
SKSM: When did you know you wanted to become a producer?
James Peniata: I started as an actor and from there became interested in Writing, Directing and Producing. I am very passionate about telling stories and the creative arts in general. I like to switch back and forward depending on the project. Some I like to act in and sometimes I feel more passion to direct and/or produce.
SKSM: How did you become involved in ‘Rest Stop‘ Dollar Baby film?
James Peniata: While working on a psychological thriller film I was directing called ‘Wall’ my friend Mark Zimmerman (who wrote ‘Wall’) told me he had obtained the contract to make ‘Rest Stop’ and he asked if I would produce. I had just made a film with a similar tone and was set to begin filming an action series in a few months so I was hesitant to join him. I always put too much work on myself. But after reading the script and discussing with Mark I really enjoyed his vision. And I jumped on board quickly.
SKSM: Can you tell us about your work in the film?
James Peniata: I produced Rest Stop and helped to organise some of the set dressing used in the film. I was heavily in contact with the local council and did the scheduling for the filming days.
SKSM: What was it like to work with Mark Zimmerman on this film?
James Peniata: I have had the pleasure of working with Mark on 5 occasions now and each time has been from a different role. He is a true professional and very much a perfectionist across all roles.
SKSM: Was there any funny things that happened while filming (Bloopers, etc)?
James Peniata: Our second day of filming was on location at an actual Rest Stop located out doors on a quiet highway. While we were at unit base (located near a bush trail) we noticed one or two people approach every few minutes at night time. They would hesitate and then leave. This happened across the 2-3 nights we were filming on location. We later found out that spot is a very popular place for couples to “get together”… if you know what I mean. I couldnt stop laughing when I found out.
SKSM: Are you a fan of Stephen King’s work?
James Peniata: I am a very big fan of Stephen Kings work. Salems Lot was probably my first book I read of his and when I saw the first film adaptation it reinforced the fear I felt reading the book. My all time favourite would have to be IT though. Clowns have forever scared me since.
SKSM: What are you working on nowadays?
James Peniata: I am now in post production for the second season of my action fantasy series Atomic Kingdom, which also stars Mark in one of the lead roles. It is set in an alternate future for Australia after World War 3.
SKSM: Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions. Something you’d like to tell our readers?
James Peniata: You’re very welcome! Id like to say to keep an eye on Penigma Pictures. We have produced some great works this year and we have many amazing things in the pipline. 2020 will see us begin development of our first feature film under our Penigma title and we release Atomic Kingdom Season 2.
