On Talk Is Jericho, new AEW signee Jon Moxley gave major praise to filmmaker Matt Burns (also once known as “Sick” Nick Mondo on the wrestling scene) for the work he did on both Mox’s “prison break” trailer after leaving WWE as well as the “time’s up” trailer teasing a presence in NJPW. I reached out to Burns who was gracious enough with his time to answer a few questions I had about his career in film-making, his relationship with Jon Moxley, his big inspirations as a filmmaker, and who in wrestling he’d love to work with on future projects.
Who were your overall filmmaking influences (directors, producers, other outside aspects)? Big inspirations that got you into the film world?
“My number one influence, for style, flair and overall tone is David Fincher. There’s a level of smoothness he brings to every aspect of his films that consistently blows me away. I often say Fight Club is my favorite film. But the original Alien film (1979) is also right up there. I also feel like Ridley Scott knows exactly where to put the camera. His confidence really inspires me. And early Spielberg… Jaws?? Man, I could go on. But dark genre films with a really solid story tend to be my favorites.”
Can you touch a little bit upon how your relationship with Jon started?
“Jon and I both wrestled for CZW, which is known for it’s ‘ultra-violent’ product. We also both competed in CZW’s annual Tournament of Death shows. We didn’t cross paths in that company, however. …it was actually years later, when I recorded a 4 hour shoot interview with Smart Mark Video that Jon and I first talked. A preview for my shoot was released online (Sick Nick Mondo Shoot Interview Preview). At about 2:30 in that video, I discuss my idea fora a film project dealing with the ‘why?’ behind death-match wrestling. That was what ended up becoming my bio film The Trade, which is now on Blu-ray/DVD or streaming. But Jon was interested in this project, and it was what started our friendship! He reached out to ask about this film, and ended up offering me some funding to help get it done.”
Any particular inspirations that you used when creating the first Moxley trailer? I know it was noted that the Venom trailer (from Sony’s film with Tom Hardy) was a big aspect, but any film style in particular influence some of your input? How about the NJPW trailer?”
“For the ‘prison break’ video, I was mimicking again, David Fincher’s shooting style. In particular, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (remake) is what I had in mind. Dark, moody, and incredibly smooth photography. I of course don’t have the luxury of taking as much time as Fincher can when he shoots, but I do everything in my power to mimic his bold and and very confident / controlled camera movements. For the ‘Time’s Up’ video, it might sound funny but I was referencing some of Wong Kar-Wai’s work. He does mostly romance, but films like In the Mood For Love, and even My Blueberry Nights have some gorgeous, intimate shots of people in richly lit bars. And you can really feel the film grain in his work. We added film grain in post production, to dirty up the ‘Time’s Up’ video a bit. I wanted that one to feel a bit seedy.”
Any particular aspects of your experience in the wrestling business that help add something special to your career into film-making?
“I am very comfortable with directing and capturing body movements. Pro-wrestling is so much about communicating with your body, and it’s helped me to know how to direct talent, on screen. This goes beyond action scenes, too. Simply knowing how to convey emotion with your body is very important in filmmaking / acting.”
What are some future projects you’re working on?
“I’m working on two separate action / thriller (feature) films, which are both in the script stage. One of those I am developing specifically for / with Jon Moxley. We both really hope to shoot a full length film together. I’m working on it!”
What genres in film-making do you further want to challenge yourself in down the road?
“I’m less about genre, and more about a good, solid story. If the dramatic core is strong, I can be interested in almost any genre. But I do tend toward dark, intense dramas and action / thrillers.”
Did working with Moxley get you inspired to get more invested with AEW as a viewer and fan?
“I am very intrigued by what AEW is doing, and working with Jon for sure added to that. Their PPV was the first one I’ve bought in ages, and the last 3 matches especially had me very entertained. I’ll be watching their product closely as it unfolds.”
Favorite movie? Favorite actor? What wrestlers that you’ve worked with do you think has a good hand for film-making or acting?
“Films – Alien, Fight Club, Sunset Boulevard, Being There, The Professional. Favorite actor – Gary Oldman, Peter Stormare, Robin Wright. As for wrestlers – I haven’t worked with him, but Cody (Rhodes) has a very good presence to him. Joey Janela I’d love to work with. Sasha Banks, too, if she ends up being available… Anybody with dreams, innovation, passion, bring it on!”
Want to know more of Matt Burns / Nick Mondo? Check out the trailer for his 2017 film The Trade.
RELATED: Jon Moxley On Talk With Vince McMahon, Says He Was Leaving WWE ‘Whether AEW Exists Or Not’
