LISA HAKOLA & MARCUS ROSE

THE NEW FACES AT QUITE FRANKLY

LISA

“I like to imagine that one day I’ll look back on my life and say, “well Lisa, that was quite a gamble.” And no, I don’t mean that kind of gambling…

As I stumbled out of the February rain into the warm embrace of the Quite Frankly Production office, the stress of looking for a job, in the hustle that is London, was finally over.

But let’s get one thing straight. This is more than just a job. After all, I didn’t haul myself across the globe to simply sit at a desk. Although to be fair, there are days when that happens too.”

“Joining the QF team in a role that hadn’t quite existed before, didn’t feel as intimidating as it might have earlier in my career. Embracing the challenges of a creative environment has never not been worth it. This attitude has led me from Australia, to Finland, and finally the UK. It’s amazing what can be achieved when you set no limitations on the growth that can happen, even in the shortest amount of time.

We’re closing in on day fifty now, and the amount of projects I’ve worked on, range of the skills I’ve witnessed, and wonderful people I’ve met has been staggering.
Without droning on, I’ve come to realise over the years, there’s a wonderful freedom in taking big, bold risks. And quite frankly, this seems like a damn good one.”

MARCUS

“I had been freelancing for very long time, so starting at a new place like Quite Frankly wasn’t a scary thought for me. I see it as a step up, a new challenge, and a chance to contribute to the reputation they have already achieved.

When I was first applied for my role at QF I had a look at the website to see films they’ve made previously, and the style they use I felt was very similar to my own.

I have always believed in the power of film, whether its a feature, documentary or scripted. Film is designed to entertain you, to take you places you’d never see, and meet people you’ve never meet.

To entertain is to give attention or consideration to an idea or feeling. To find a story you want to tell, and to tell it in a way that is engaging to an audience. This can be assisted through a style or soundtrack. I’ve had always believed a good soundtrack is key to the pace, and feel of a sequence.

I’m not arty in any way, but I like to try to give films a certain individuality, with over arching themes.”

“At university I was introduced to a director called Chris Cunningham was great at mixing visuals with great soundtracks. People mainly remember him from his ‘Mental Wealth – Alien Girl Playstation’ Advert.”

“But my favourite of his was a Gucci Commercial. A girl in a field of flowers moving with the wind to the song “I Feel Love’. I think this emotes a feeling that draws audiences and allows them to feel part of the film.”

“I have a way to go but I like to give films meaning and feeling.

Since Ive been at QF, I have been introduced to various clients and attended multiple shoots.

I have had the chance to meet and interview, interesting and influential people such Ramon Calderdon (former Real Madrid President), and Hilary Heilbron QC. As well as chatting to young minds who’s skills in cyber security will one day be protecting us all.

I’ve enjoyed engaging with these people and helping them tell their stories and teachings with the films we’ve made, but it’s only just the beginning.

Anyways, I feel I’m rambling, usually i’m a man of few words, but this is what happens when you’re under pressure! So, in summary, its nice to be here!”