5Q's w/Paula Rossman "The Red Lotus" Executive Producer
SUNDAY BLOCK J | 1:00 PM
#1: Can you describe your movie and why somebody should see it in less than 280 characters?
It is a story of sisterhood and a woman's determination to stand for herself and her vision of her own future. THE RED LOTUS takes a prescient look into what can happen if we lose the rights to our own bodies and choices...it's about definining who gets to choose how we each live our lives.
#2: What do you want the Borrego Springs Film Festival audience to know about your film that isn’t obvious from its title?
This is a story about standing for one's own truth. About taking control over the agency of one's life choices.
#3: What is your movie making background? Tell us about yourself.
I have been working as an actress, director and producer for over forty years. The majority of my work was in live theater - and among my favorite opportunities has been the work of character creation and performance, teaching, directing and park management that I did for Disney Parks and Resorts, as well as my work in new play development at various venues including Orlando Shakes. Upon moving to NYC over seven years ago, I began exploring how to go about creating my own content. In 2015, I directed and produced my first film, and I have been at it ever since!
#4: What was the biggest lesson learned in getting your film made?
Other than patience and the power of meditation for de-stressing?!?
Being flexible - always open to ideas, while still holding true to one's own vision.
To honor my fellow creatives. The importance of strong conflict management skills. Respect. And keeping a sense of humor.
#5: What does the future hold for your film and you?
We have The Red Lotus submitted to several more festivals through next year. After that, my co-EP and the film's writer, Shara Ashley Zeiger, has a feature she has been working on based upon elements of the story...so after the festival run, this film's future path will be up to her.
As for myself, I am currently partnering with several of the other producers of this film on a new "all shorts" film festival, opening next September, The Berkshire Short Film Festival (just in time for the glorious autumn leaf change!)
I am also part of the production team working on an exciting feature film now in pre-production: TEST, by Brock Yurich.
And while still performing, on occasion - much of my time is now focused on working on three projects (two plays and a novelette) in the process of being adapted into films.
