Advertisements
Director/writer Kelly Blatz’s (“Senior Love Triangle”) latest partly grew from his own love for motorcycles. “One Fast Move,” however, is not just a story filled with motorcycle races. The feature, which Blatz penned, is a celebration and exploration of mentorship as we witness the maturation of Wes (KJ Apa), a young man in need of direction. Blatz talked about his inspiration behind “One Fast Move” and elaborated on how past mentors (he specifically mentions “Senior Love Triangle” actor Tom Bower) have shaped his life.
As a motorcyclist, Kelly Blatz wrote his “One Fast Move” from a genuine place. Wes (KJ Apa) travels to a small town to meet his irresponsible motorycle racer dad (Eric Dane). Needing mentorship and support, Wes gradually builds a relationship with his dad as well as the nurturing owner (Edward James Olmos) of a local bike shop. Maia Reficco is a watiress who catches Wes’ eye, and their blossoming relationship is one of the feature’s subplots.
“It came from from my own life and lives of friends and family members over, over the years, but especially the time between your late 20s coming into closer to 30,” said Blatz. “There’s a transition that happens with young men into manhood where they’re pulled in many different directions and they’re looking for mentors. (What does it mean) to be a man in the modern world. Is it to be a family man? Is it just to pursue your dream at all cost?”
Mentors can be found everywhere you look, especially on film sets. Tom Bower, a celebrated character who passed earlier this year, was an influence on Blatz.
“(Tom) was a wonderful man and became a wonderful mentor to me throughout my career after I worked with him,” said Blatz. “I was so lucky to be able to work with with so many talented, incredibly experienced actors throughout my career. I’m always seeking mentors, whether that’s in books, mentors who have passed on, you know, a thousand years ago or people in my own life.”
