Raul Gasteazoro Discusses The Protector and Collaborating with Graham Greene

Raul Gasteazoro, a seasoned producer, cinematographer, and director, has been an influential figure in the film industry since 2008. Known for his work on films such as The Narwhal’s Wake (2015), Paris Window (2018), and Moon Manor (2022), Gasteazoro’s latest directorial venture, The Protector, is a post-apocalyptic sci-fi action film starring Marguerite Moreau and Graham Greene. The movie is now available on major digital and cable Video On Demand platforms.

In an exclusive interview, Gasteazoro shares insights into the making of The Protector, his experiences working with the cast, and his passion for the post-apocalyptic genre.

The Vision Behind The Protector

When asked why he chose The Protector as his next project, Gasteazoro explained, “I felt I had to make this film. After years of being a commercial director, I wanted to do something meaningful and tell a story that hadn’t quite been done yet.” He emphasized the importance of creating a film outside the constraints of traditional studio systems, focusing on female empowerment and environmental themes.

Gasteazoro’s decision to feature a female lead was driven by a desire to challenge norms and promote the idea that “Mother Earth” needs protection. “The story was gifted to me over the years through cultural osmosis and my existential fears about our planet’s health,” he remarked.

Filming in Reality

Filming The Protector was a logistical challenge. “We shot ultra-low-budget, using about 10-12 locations,” Gasteazoro said. The team utilized real and found locations, including the Casa Grande domes in Arizona and Cold War-era nuclear missile silos, to create a convincing post-apocalyptic world.

Gasteazoro drew inspiration from films like Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior and Children of Men, aiming for a realistic depiction of a dystopian future. “We wanted a world that looked familiar but destroyed, with color palettes reflecting a dry and lifeless environment,” he explained.

Casting and Collaboration

The casting process for The Protector was unique. “This entire film was cast with friends,” Gasteazoro revealed. Marguerite Moreau and Chris Redman, long-time friends of the director, were pivotal in shaping the film’s cast. Graham Greene joined the project after a previous actor became unavailable, bringing a sense of gravity and authenticity to the film.

Gasteazoro praised Greene’s professionalism, stating, “He showed up on set ready to work, bringing his own ideas and a no-nonsense attitude.” The director also highlighted the contributions of Edgar Feliciano, whose real-life tattoo added depth to the character of Key.

Challenges and Triumphs

Creating The Protector was not without its challenges. Gasteazoro faced financial constraints, even mortgaging his home to fund the production. “Raising the funds was the hardest part,” he admitted. Despite these obstacles, the film was completed with the help of dedicated executive producers and a committed team.

Reflecting on the filmmaking process, Gasteazoro noted the similarities to his previous work, 10,000 A.D.: The Legend of a Black Pearl. Both projects were marked by limited resources and a reliance on non-professional actors, yet both conveyed powerful messages about the future.

Looking Ahead

Gasteazoro hopes The Protector will inspire audiences to “protect what is left” and believes the film’s message is more relevant than ever. He is eager to expand the story into a trilogy, with a sequel titled The Dirt Jouster in mind.

As he looks to the future, Gasteazoro remains committed to pushing the boundaries of filmmaking. “The post-apocalypse genre allows you to talk about the future in a captivating way,” he said, expressing admiration for filmmakers like the Wachowski Sisters and Denis Villeneuve who have similarly challenged the status quo.

The Protector is available on all major digital, Video On Demand, and cable platforms starting May 23rd, 2025. For more information, visit the official website.