5Q's w/Tamara Bunker "Treintañera" writer, actress, co-producer

#1: Can you describe your movie and why somebody should see it in less than 140 characters?

Valentina is persuaded to have a quinceañera party on her 30th birthday to find a man. On the same day, she gets offered her dream job.

#2: What do you want the Borrego Springs Film Festival audience to know about your film that isn’t obvious from its title?

It’s a short comedy about women in general, but more about what it means to be a young woman today - the social pressures that still exist, the barriers, the problems women have to face in order to reach their goals. I have friends who want to get married and have children, and some who don’t; all paths have to be acceptable and possible for women. It’s also about the culture and the importance of family in Mexico. The quinceañera party just seemed to be a perfect setting to show these amazing facets. 

#3: What is your movie making background?  Tell us about yourself.

I’m half Mexican, half British. I have a BFA in theatre from Mexico, and from there I went on to study special effects makeup in London, and then moved to Los Angeles to get an MFA in Acting. This is my first short film - my thesis project. I love acting, but all aspects of filmmaking inspire me tremendously. 

#4: What was the biggest lesson learned in getting your film made?

Always try and work with people you trust, and enjoy working with - I had an incredible cast and crew. 

Always listen to people, seek advice but in the end follow your gut - it’s normally right. I also learned that comedies are hard, but at the end of the day you should focus on creating characters that are relatable.

Always get coverage, coverage, coverage! 

#5: What does the future hold for your film and you?

The film is still doing its festival run, hopefully for another six months. Then I want to share it with people online. I am also writing the feature for “Treintañera”. 

In general my plan is to make more films with strong female characters.