Jim Amatulli brought on an all-star cast that includes Billy Ray Cyrus, Heather Locklear, and Patricia Neal to tell the story of a successful businessman who decides to pursue his teenage dream of being in a rock & roll band, all the while knowing that his marriage, family and business are at risk.

Q: How do you feel about your film screening at the 2009 International Beverly Hills Film Festival? 
A: This is an opportunity for visibility in the heart of the business, where it is difficult to differentiate yourself. Since we shot “Flying By” in San Diego, many of the actors and key production people live in the LA area, so they have a chance to see the film in a quality venue.

Q: Can you say a few words about your film?
A: Most people can identify with a story of someone questioning what they are currently doing in their work or life, and even wishing they’d taken another path, followed their dream. It’s a “What if…?” scenario. “Flying By” follows George Barron (Billy Ray Cyrus) as he deals with life complexities- in his real estate development business, his relationship with his wife (Heather Locklear) and daughter (Olesya Rulin). Attending his 25th high school reunion unexpectedly sparks his real joy, music, as his old band convinces him to give it another shot. George’s mother (Patricia Neal) is the voice of reality, encouraging him to enjoy life…. It’s flying by.

Q: Any interesting “behind the scenes” items you want to mention for viewers?
A: This was a very tight shoot and it went smoothly. The only “unique” experience was the unexpected sounds of machine guns and rifle fire from right outside the studio. We were unaware that the marines we training in a replica Iraqi village on the lot day and night for the first week.  After traveling across the country, Billy Ray Cyrus was exhausted, and working with Patricia Neal his first day on set, but he was shocked awake by the sound of gunfire. We had forgotten to warn him.

Q: Anything else you’d like to add about the film?
A: We were fortunate to have a cast with such great experience and broad audience appeal. Since most we supporting roles, their professionalism made it a pleasure to come to the set each day. The crew and studio staff in San Diego really pulled together between our crazy Thanksgiving to Christmas schedule to make everyone feel at home.
  
Q: Why do you think independent film is important?
A: Independent Film is the closest a filmmaker can get to the “heart” of the art, by allowing the control that only a select few can get in the studio world. The satisfaction of starting with a blank page, watching ideas grown, finding talented people to collaborate and bring the diverse elements together, and after a couple of years have passed, watch it on the screen. That’s the success.  Getting it done when no one expected you to and without enough money or time, Satisfying.

Q: Why do you think the Beverly Hills Film Festival is important?
A: This is a unique venue with a manageable number of films, so it is possible not to be overwhelmed by confusing choices. You could actually see all the films. They filmmaker, guest and audience will have opportunities to talk in a more intimate setting than in a multiplex. The festival team has to be extremely committed to film as they face challenges since entry fees don’t cover expenses and sponsors are harder to attract without huge audiences. Plus their selections are right out there and it’s a subjective business and not everyone will like every film. Smaller festivals showcase the filmmakers and Beverly Hills is positioned to do that in the place.