Black and Paper interview with filmmaker Philipp Jedicke, his first film, “Shut Up and Play the Piano”  a mockumentary following the life of Musical Artist Chilly Gonzales premiered at the Berlinale.

Why did you choose to make a documentary as your first film project?

I interviewed Chilly Gonzales when I was a journalist. As I learned more about him the more I wanted to know. My curiosity was peaked. I saw his many facets, I asked if anyone has produced a portrait or film on him. He said, “no!” He told me to do it. I had a lot of ideas about making a film but none came to fruition until this project.

You were not worried about working with an artist who is talented but a bit egocentric?

Not at all! I met him person. I knew the whole Chilly Gonzales mode he goes into was really a stage persona. Behind all of that is gentle, emotional, and nice guy. As Chilly he is erratic and in rage but for him as artist it is a wall of protection. The two are linked, but totally different mind sets.

What type of humor is employed in the film?

We tried to mirror Gonzales’ humor. I hope we managed. There is a lot of irony, sarcasm, and the “HA HA Jokes”.

How much footage did you shoot, the film is 82 minutes.

We filmed a lot over the 30 shooting days, much is on the cutting room floor. This is my first film so I gave myself complete coverage. I interviewed a number of people for the film but I had to cut them which made me sad, but as a director but I wanted to stay focus on Chilly.

How long did it take you to make the film?

From the first shooting day until now, premiere at the 68^thBerlinale February 2018, three and half years. We did not have the end credits finished when the film was chosen only a few weeks ago. The producers were very supportive of me, giving a lot of control.

The camera work is really good, there was a good relationship with the production team?

My team was familiar with Chilly Gonzales’ work. I was lucky because I worked with an experienced Director of Photography, Michael Winterbauer. My first DP, Marcel Kolenbach, had to leave because of a schedule conflict. The editor, Hank Drees has been in working on documentaries for 20 years and Carina Mergens. They all knew the character I was working with as well they had great enthusiasm.

What are your future plans?

I would like to make film about another musical artist. I am in talks. My site is on The Austrian Music Scene, fascinating, a lot is happening there; many artists producing techno and indie sounds.

Music influences your work?

Yes! I was a member of 2 bands, but now only one. Music has always been an important part of my life. I never tried to make a living as a musician, I wrote about music, but the saying is “Music Journalist are fustrated musicians”. I think this is true in many ways.

Shut Up and Play The Piano was screened at the 68^thBerlinale. 

Check local listing for release dates and screening times.

This interview is from our #thisberlinale18 coverage sponsored by Canon Camera and Pringle of Scotland.