Grant Hunker works for Truly Nolen Pest Control, but you're more likely to see him with a video camera and boom mic than protective clothing and bug spray.
The 29-year-old Mountain View High School grad makes training videos for the company.
He also studies film at Pima Community College.
He teamed with classmates in a semester-long project to create the 8-minute short "Esteban's Ride," which played at the Arizona International Film Festival in April.
The movie follows a man who is told he must care for his elderly father, a rancher with dementia who goes off alone for one last horse ride.
Hunker sees the film as the start of what he hopes is a long filmmaking career. To check out his work, visit www.youtube.com/user/redlens
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Tell me where you got the idea for your film.
"The film 'Esteban's Ride' was written by Dave Wing (who teaches film and digital arts at Pima's West Campus).
"I wanted to try directing a project that I didn't write. I think that is one of the best ways to learn. Dave is great as a producer/teacher because he really encourages and gets everyone working in their production roles. I wanted to work on this film in particular because of the subject matter."
What's next for you? "Writing a sci-fi, action drama and hoping to begin production on it in September. Continue producing shorts for the Loft First Friday Shorts."
What was the toughest thing about making your film?
"Thinking that you have every detail planned out. When you're shooting you never have time to think on set; you can never plan enough. Also working with a larger crew for the first time can be a little overwhelming; you learn how to communicate through the process."
What are your plans after you've finished at Pima?
"I plan on continuing work at Truly Nolen. I really enjoy it here. (It's) a great company and aside from producing training videos, I get to shoot fun projects for them as well, and make my own independent projects."
What would you like to accomplish in your career?
"It would be great to produce a feature-length film or even work on a few. But as long as I can continue writing, shooting and learning, I am happy."
What is Pima's film program like?
"Pima's program is great. Very hands-on, covers every aspect of filmmaking. Even going into the digital age of filmmaking you still get to shoot 16mm film projects that are a lot of fun. The teachers bring a wealth of knowledge and great teaching styles that motivate you to think and work hard.
"It was a long road back to school after many years, and I am happy it happened when and how it did. It's never too late to realize your dreams."
If you're involved in filmmaking and would like to be featured in a Q&A, write to pvillarreal@azstarnet.com
