THE BSFF

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5Q's w/Maureen Giblin "Remembering Kochendorf" Director

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

My film is a story about reconnecting with friends and places from the past. I hope it inspires people to reach out to an old friend.

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

This film is about a memory that becomes an experience. The writing of a letter, that leads to a phone call, that leads to a reunion with childhood friends. There’s the potential for a life changing experience when you reunite with someone from long ago.

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

I’ve worked in live-action and animation for over 25 years. This is my first independent film, which I directed, edited, and produced.

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

In a film such as mine, there's a tendency to get too close to our subjects, especially when they are family members. Having objective viewers to give feedback was key to bringing this specific story into focus.

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

This has been an incredible learning experience in every way imaginable; from the technical aspects of editing, to making storytelling decisions, to getting permission to use archival material. Discovering more about the history of Kochendorf and my mom’s life in Germany was the most meaningful part. Everything I learned during this production will help me when I make my next film!