Bus Stop

“My initial interest in Bus Stop was to make a film that explored the idea of what strangers around us are thinking. The more I spoke of this, the more I found everyone 2 had experienced the personal curiosity of the thoughts of people around us, especially on public transport. I originally had the idea riding the New York subway while I was living there, by moving home to New Zealand again, I realised the concept translates not only a range of vehicles, but that it is universal and translates to any society. Its about how the public around us, and who we speculate we might be. I was also drawn to the idea of it primary being a silent film, with visuals speaking of memories, and the role of sound being quite abstract. Also, it was appropriate situation to examine a wide  range of characters. A range in age, race and how their thoughts reflect what is important to them, at that stage in their lives. The other commentary I was interested in making was that we never get a chance to see within the driver’s head. This is a statement on how most people assume that since his occupation is apparent, there can’t be much more to him. His actions state the opposite. Bus Stop is really about people in society, anywhere, and the game we play, in wondering who the  strangers that sit next to us are.”

Chris Graham

Director