Review Fix chats with Undercover Wrestler director Roe Moore, who discusses the film and so much more.
About Roe Moore:
Roe Moore is more than your average director. The owner of PIPIE productions, Moore’s extraordinary cinematic resume includes previous experience as an actor, in production, and as a script supervisor, each a steppingstone that eventually led to her passion for directing. Throughout her career, she’s been drawn to opportunities that delve into the comedic side of the human experience, harness captivating performances, and experiment with blending classic film with technical intricacies behind the camera. Moore desires to make the entertainment world much funnier by creating cinematic magic that leaves audiences dazzled and laughing.
Moore’s long list of accomplishments spans film, theater, and television, including directing the award-winning dramedy play, “Recess.” Other credits include associate director and script supervisor for HBOMax’s “Fresh Prince of Bell Air Reunion” show, VH1’s “RuPaul Drag Race,” Disney+ talk show “Earth to Ned,” and CW’s magic-based variety show “Masters of Illusion.” Recently, Moore was selected to participate in The New Hollywood Collective and the Women in Film’s Directing Mentorship. Her work has been celebrated in featured publications, including ScriptMag, Backstage, and Final Draft.
Review Fix: What makes PIEPIE Productions different from other production companies?
Roe Moore: PiePie Productions has a knack for weaving heartfelt narratives into high value comedy and dramedy films and television series.
We proudly champion communities that have often been overlooked in the world of entertainment – People of Color, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and those with diverse gender identities. A prime example of this commitment can be seen in our project Undercover Wrestler where we assembled a predominantly female camera crew, an all-women stunts team, and ensured the inclusion of multiple LGBTQ+ individuals in key roles.
Another core principle within PiePie Productions’ mission is an emphasis on education and mentorship within the entertainment industry. We’re the friendly open door for those itching to dive into the entertainment industry or switch gears within it. Let’s face it, breaking in is tough, but we’re here with that all-important first “Yes!” – and a side of experience to go with it. Recognizing the challenges faced by newcomers, we are dedicated to being the catalyst that offers that crucial first “Yes” and the chance to gain invaluable experience in their desired roles.
I have previously mentored within the Producers Guild of America’s Diversity and Inclusion program and am a speaker at various industry related events. So this passion for education and mentorship is something that I wish I would’ve had early in my career.
Review Fix: Tell us about Undercover Wrestler. What made you get this project going?
Moore: When I read the script for Undercover Wrestler, I knew right away that it was something I wanted to direct. I mean, who wouldn’t want to be part of an absurd WWE style wrestling match breaking out in a diner over three crinkle cut fries? That had my creative juices flowing and I had some of the visuals I wanted to make happen at that point.
When the table read happened, Joseph Dailey, the talented Whoops! Comedy writer and lead in Undercover Wrestler, already had the title sequence song ready to go. His passion and enthusiasm for the project was on fire! And that’s when I was like, “Okay. I’m hooked. We’re making this!”
After that, it was putting the crew and other logistic pieces together. I enlisted my friend and fantastic stunt coordinator Anne Westcott to deep dive into the wrestling moves assisted by Women of Wrestling member Alyssa Ratto. Once we got to the filming of Undercover Wrestler, it was an amazing cast and crew collaboration.
Review Fix: How is it different from your other work?
Moore: Stepping into the director’s chair for Undercover Wrestler marks a significant change from my previous film and television endeavors. While I’ve previously script supervised projects involving stunt work, this project demanded a whole new level of preparation. With seven stunts occurring in less than five minutes, it involved deliberate blocking and stunt rehearsals to ensure not only a smooth shoot day, but that the final film would feel absurd yet make the hits feel real.
The style of the film is one of the notable distinctions that sets this project apart from my previous work. My previous projects were based in reality and therefore, have a more modern real life feel. When I teamed up with the skillful Director of Photography, Rachael Hastings, we opted to mirror the kinetic camera work synonymous with WWE matches. To top it off, we included a dynamic shift from reality to the heightened absurdity within the world of wrestling. This transition necessitated a unique approach to capturing the action. This strategic choice gives Undercover Wrestler a visual dynamism and intensity that distinctly sets it apart from my prior body of work.
Review Fix: What have you learned from previous projects that helped this one?
Moore: One project that really influenced Undercover Wrestler was my time working on the show Lucha Underground. I was the Script Supervisor/Associate Producer for multiple seasons on the scripted segments in between all the live wrestling action. Watching Skip Chaisson, the director, work his magic was something special. He had this knack for blending storytelling with stunts that tied everything together. Additionally, working with the stunt coordinator on the show was eye-opening, too. I learned the art of nailing those camera angles to make the action feel real. It’s like putting together a puzzle, finding just the right moves to keep everyone on the edge of their seats.
Review Fix: What are your goals for this one?
Moore: I would love for someone like The Rock to see this short. I would get the biggest kick of his reaction. Also, I would love for this project to establish PiePie Productions as an industry go-to for comedy and action film production. It’d be awesome, too, if this somehow got me into directing Dodgeball 2 (should that ever come to fruition!).
Review Fix: Who do you think will dig it the most?
Moore: This film will undoubtedly strike a chord with enthusiasts of WWE wrestling and action-packed entertainment. Joseph Dailey is deeply passionate about WWE and how it formed his childhood. In fact, WWE legends like Hulk Hogan and The Rock were familiar figures in my household, as they held a special place in the hearts of my dad, mom and brother. In many ways, this project is our way of paying homage to these iconic influencers.
There exists a niche audience who relishes the idea of justice prevailing over minor infractions, and I’m confident they’ll find Undercover Wrestler to be right up their alley. This film embodies a unique blend of high-stakes action and a touch of nostalgia, making it a treat for a diverse range of viewers.
Review Fix: What’s next?
Moore: For Undercover Wrestler – we’re looking to have our World Premiere at Slamdance or SXSW. Once we’ve had our fun in the film festival circuit, we do anticipate it making its way to viewers through one of the short film distribution avenues.
In the meantime, PiePie Productions is looking forward to completing our first feature film! Currently, we’re deep into the script development phase for a comedy-driven feature set predominantly in the vibrant backdrop of Las Vegas. Alongside this exciting venture, we have a roster of four other short films making their way through the film festival circuit. One of these gems titled How We Met, a delightful rom-com sketch, is set to grace the screens at the upcoming BlackMagic Collective’s Film Festival in December, 2023.
Review Fix: Anything else you’d like to add?
Moore: We’ll keep you updated as things progress!
Review Fix: Where can people find out more?
Moore: Folks can find out more about Undercover Wrestler and our upcoming projects by visiting:
· Our website at www.PiePieProductions.net
· Instagram: www.instagram.com/PiePieProd
· Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PiePieProductions/
· Twitter: www.Twitter.com/PiePieProd
And please check out the comedy chops of Whoops! Comedy. They have a monthly show at the Pack Theater in Los Angeles, California. More information can be found on their Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comedywhoops/.
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