Interview with Filmmaker Mark Schwab

Filmmaker Mark Schwab wants people to “know what you are getting into in regards to online dating apps” via his new thriller Crisis Hotline.


The film is being marketed as a horror. Is it fair to say it’s much more than that though?

I think so, yes. The events are horrifying for sure but it’s also a revenge thriller and a psychosexual drama. “Crisis Hotline” isn’t that easy to categorize and I think that’s a great thing.


How long ago did you start work on it?

I began writing the script in June of 2017 and we finished the movie in January of 2018. I should say we finished our cut of the movie. Once we had our distributor (High Octane Pictures) on board, then we went headfirst into the world of deliverables and the quality control process which takes a lot of time to get right.


And what was the appeal of this story?

It’s a subject matter that hasn’t really been tackled yet. Especially in the little seen LGBT/Thriller genre. It allowed us to create that unique atmosphere. I knew we had a great script as soon as we attracted a top notch cinematographer (Dante Yore) and crew. That gave us the confidence to really up our game as filmmakers.


Is there a personal element to all this- maybe an experience you had on an app?

Thankfully no! I wouldn’t wish the events of Crisis Hotline on anyone. I have heard some strange stories from friends of mine about their dating app experiences but this tale is made up purely from the demented recesses of my creative mind.


What do you hope audiences take away from the film, sir?

First and foremost, I want them to be absorbed into a great thriller. To see a movie that is truly different and unpredictable in both story and execution. Also to know what you are getting into in regards to online dating apps. Don’t be cowering in fear but be diligent and trust your instincts when something feels off about someone you meet.

Crisis Hotline arrives on digital and DVD June 11.