Filmmaker: Truen Pence
Film: The Build
1st Annual MFF 2013: Winner Short Film
Q: What’s the name of your film in the MFF?
A: The Build
Q: What’s it about?
A: Three custom motorcycle builders in Portland, Oregon discuss how life fits in with their obsession of building and riding bikes
Q: What inspired you to make this movie?
A: I love to ride and am continually fascinated by the people and culture surrounding bikes. I build a bike a few years ago and was fascinated by how simple it was and took me back to feeling like I was a kid again. I wanted to explore this subject further and luckily, we live in a place where building unique bikes is celebrated. Aside from the bikes, however; were the builders whose personalities all inspired me. Their personalities, drive and overall philosophy on life seemed to be unique and different enough that they all seemed to resonate with me and I thought they could stand alone as their own pieces. Luckily all three of them were game and willing to talk, ride, and wrench in front of the camera.
Q: How did you find the MMF? Have you made any other films, and if so, is there a common theme throughout your films?
A: Yes and no. Most are commercial and documentary in nature but hopefully my theme is just authenticity. Stupid word but if there is a better way to say “capturing the root of the subject without a lot of other bullshit getting in the way,” that is the word I’m looking for.
Q: Do you ride a motorcycle? If so, tell yes a little about what you ride, and why?
A: I like the combination of craft and adventure and Moto films seem to capture that sense of adventure better than some other mediums.There is that perfect balance between machine and nature. It’s not just about the adventure, you have to respect the machine as well. There is something to be said for the craft and laborious pursuit that is involved in the building or maintenance of a bike as well.
Q: Have you had a chance to attend the MMF yet?
A: Not yet but want to make it to the next. Bring it out West!
Q: Possibly impossible questions: Favorite bike movie?
A: I recently watched the Burt Munro documentary, “Offerings to the God of Speed” for the first time and was blown away at that. We all know the story from World’s Fastest Indian but that dude was a legit thrill seeker and fascinating craftsman. It was good to hear the story through his own words. The cinematography on it is pretty solid for the time as well. If you haven’t seen it, find a copy of it and check it out.
Q: What’s next for you as a filmmaker?
A: I’m fortunate to be able to make films that excite me and continue to explore fascinating content here at Instrument. We recently released a short film and website around the Oregon Coast called “This Place,” http://thisplacejournal.com/ that you can check out if you haven’t experienced it for yourself.
more on the filmmaker here: http://truenpence.com/
The Build Film from Instrument on Vimeo.