We spoke with one of the co-producers of Asia A Jake Katofsky to discuss his collaboration with Andrew Reid, what attracted him to Asia A and his upcoming projects.

Hi Jake, how are you doing?

I get to wake up every day and make movies, so I am doing well!

Congratulations on ASIA A. How did the collaboration between you and director Andrew Reid start?

Thank you. Last March, after some development of the script, Andrew and Eric decided they needed one more creative force on the ASIA A team. We met to discuss the project and immediately melded creatively. The rest is history.

What was your reaction when you first heard the incredible story of Andrew and also at the same time the story of this movie?

I was instantly taken by Andrew’s story – but how could you not? His ability to persevere is inspirational and lays the groundwork for a moving cinematic experience.

What was the thing that attracted you to making this film?

The story and my creative partners. In a market overrun with content, the story is key. And ASIA A had that something special that we have really never seen before – an inspiring yet dramatic tale of a paraplegic making that choice to give up or face adversity head-on. But, just as important as the story is the team that brings you that story and I knew working with Andrew, Eric, and Roberto would make a moving film. I believe we succeeded.

How long, from start to finish, did it take to make ASIA A?

ASIA A, from the time I joined the team, took just over one year to complete.

What do you hope people will take away with them after seeing the film?

The ultimate hope is that a viewer not only enjoys the film but can take inspiration from Marquise’s struggle to persevere. We also want to create awareness for the ASIA test and what it means to be told that your life will never be the same, but the refusal to let that redefine you.

What advice would you give to filmmakers and producers who also want to work in film?

As someone clawing every day to break through in this industry, I tell myself that while there are a lot of factors outside of my control, what I can control is my work ethic and my attitude. Be dedicated, hungry, personable, and respectful.

Just one more question: Do you already have more upcoming projects?

Of course! On top of ASIA A, I have another short, Duvall et al., moving along the festival circuit, having premiered at the Brooklyn Film Festival in June and then at the LA international Shorts Film Festival in July. It is moving piece about an old curmudgeon reconciling with the reality of his son’s suicide in his own way. A third short, a period boxing film entitled The Bare Knuckle Gentlemen, looks to make a splash in festivals in 2019. A fourth, a horror proof-of-concept entitled The Shadow, looks to do the same.

In terms of development, I am working with various talented filmmakers to bring a number of feature films and shorts to the screen, including feature adaptations of all four short films listed above. A few exciting projects are about to go out for financing and hope to move into production next year. More to come soon!

Liselotte Vanophem, Just Celebrity Magazine’s Film and Celebrity Reporter