QUESTION#1: What excited you the most when making this film?: The incredible cast and crew!

QUESTION#2: What was the most significant film you've seen AT THE THEATER in 2024, and how did it influence your filmmaking?: Perfect Days - This film is simply glorious. The gentle pacing, the mediative cinematography and the focus on character to deliver the story / themes truly inspired me in 2024. It reminded me that when we stay true to our vision and respect the audience that's when something special can be created.

QUESTION#3: What's an obvious and not-so-obvious question someone might ask about your film?: Q: Why is the opening scene shot so abstractly?
A: I want the scene to feel like a memory to allow the audience can experience the connection between mother and son,

QUESTION#4: A magic movie genie is giving you an unlimited budget for another movie! However, you're only allowed to use it on either "above line" or "below line" resouces. Which do you choose and why?: I would have to go with below the line. May be cheating a bit but being a writer/ director I worry less about putting the budget there for myself. The "below the line" crew are the folks that bring the creative vision to life for the film. I have learned the importance of surrounding myself with talented and kind people and EVERY person on set has a big impact on the final picture. AND I believe in taking good care of everyone whether that is reasonable length of work day, time to recover and great food - it all matters!

QUESTION#5: What is it about your current movie that will influence your next film?: Taking time to set up special shots is TOTALLY time well spent (ie the overhead shot at the end of the film - thought I would only use it for one shot and used it multiple times in final edit).

Social media tags to share with our readers: instagram: LalaHalsema