On Your Radar: Cary J. Mason

“ON YOUR RADAR” IS A WEEKLY GRAD FILM NEWS SEGMENT THAT FEATURES A STUDENT PICKED AT RANDOM.

CARY J. MASON IS CURRENTLY A 3RD YEAR STUDENT AT GRAD FILM. WE ASKED HIM A FEW QUESTIONS, AND HERE’S WHAT HE HAD TO SAY:

1. Where do you consider home and what is it like there?

My home town is London, England. But of course having so many friends here makes it feel like home. Plus my big brother also goes to NYU. He’s always trying to follow in my footsteps. 

2. What is currently inspiring you as a filmmaker?

Thanks to NYU I have really found my voice as a filmmaker, pursuing the comedy and horror genres. I am always inspired by gothic horror novels when trying to write. I love the whole haunted house, classic monster stories, and the way they create such a spooky atmosphere. I try to capture tiny bits of that in my screenplays such as a door creeping open or a candle blowing gently despite no windows being open. As for what inspires my comedies, probably just my own amazing sense of humor. 

3. What has been your most rewarding experience at NYU Tisch Grad Film so far?

Well, having studied biology I have to say just talking about something I am truly passionate about on a daily basis is great, as opposed to mono nucleic acids, not that mono nucleic acids aren’t great. I’m lucky enough to have moved in with extremely talented friends I made on my course who I love sharing my ideas with and when I’m writing they're always sure to check my grammer. Also making movies is kind of cool.