In the filmmaking industry, many of us know what it is like to be bitten by the creative bug. In my own experience, being on set sparks a creative zeal - an undying craving for collaboration and storytelling that cannot be quenched.

This "creative bug,” especially in regards to horror, is a concept that personally resonates, as I got my own start behind the camera on the set of a horror movie. Films such as Mike Sarcinelli’s horror short “The Appointment” capture that calculated build-up of intensity, nostalgia, sound design, and haunting imagery that horror junkies crave. ZIFA had the honor of interviewing Mike about this gem, which stars horror iconic scream queen Linnea Quigley (Return of the Living Dead, Night of the Demons, Silent Night, Deadly Night). The Appointment won the following awards for the ZIFA summer season: Best Actress (Linnea Quigley), Best Horror Film, and Best FX Makeup (Tatjana Bluchel). Additionally, the film will qualify to compete for the coveted “Grimstone Award” at the annual in-person festival in 2024.

ZIFA: What inspired you to create this enthralling short horror film? Any influences?

Mike: Nothing specific that influenced this one other than being bitten by the creative bug. I wanted to create something in the horror realm.

ZIFA: Where did you film it? How long did it take?

Mike: Los Angeles, CA. It took a few weeks with pre production and getting everything ready to go but the actual shoot was only one 8-hr filming day.

ZIFA: What was it like filming with iconic scream queen Linnea Quigley?

Mike: Amazing! Linnea is a genuine soul. She really loves what she does for a living and brings that warm welcoming energy to set with her.

ZIFA: What was the biggest challenge you faced during production and/or post-production?

Mike: About 2 hours into the production, one of the businesses at the location we rented had a problem with us shooting. They didn't know it was approved prior and decided to take matters into their own hands.... and that caused a delay in time that we were already short on. We made up the time after settling the issue. Our crew was incredible.

ZIFA: What was the most memorable moment on set?

Mike: We have a scene where the door gets slammed shut, but we needed it to appear as if the door shut itself. Our key grip got on the floor hidden from the camera, donkey kicked the door and slithered away. We had to shoot that scene a few times because we just all couldn't stop laughing.

ZIFA: Any lessons learned or things you would have done differently?

Mike: Lessons learned... Just keep the permits on you and not in the production van so that when confronted by anyone, you can prove your validity quickly and do not have a set delay.

ZIFA: Any advice for aspiring filmmakers?

Mike: Put together a small team of trusted people who all want to create for the love of it and get out there & do it. Create!

ZIFA: Any upcoming projects?

Mike: Yes! I have a comedy feature film, Plan B, that I play a small featured role in coming out in 2024. The film features Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite), Jamie Lee (Ted Lasso, Crashing), Kate Flannery (The Office) and many more talented actors!

ZIFA: How can we find you and follow your work?

Mike——-

Website: www.mikesarcinelli.com

Instagram: @mikesarc

Facebook: www.facebook.com/mikesarc