Q: What inspired the story behind your short film?
A: I was researching Sylvia Wynter’s life in London in the 1940s and happened to learn that Funmilayo Ransome Kuti came to London in 1947. I wondered if they met and began to think of all the people who could potentially have met during that period and what might have become of these meetings.
Q: Can you discuss any unique challenges you faced during production?
A: The main challenge was working with narrative fiction for the first time. This involved coordinating a larger crew, working with actors, writing a screenplay, and collaborating with the art department to create a convincing world.
Q: How did you approach character development within the limited runtime of a short film?
A: The main development was with the character’s subtle transformation. She doesn’t give much away and is primarily observant. For key elements of the film, I wanted the audience to understand her change through gestures and body language, reflecting her impulsive decisions.
Q: What message or emotion do you hope the audience takes away from your film?
A: I want the audience to feel ignited and see themselves as part of a history that still has the possibility of unfolding.
Q: How do you see your short film fitting into your broader body of work or future projects?
A: This film marks a new departure for me and serves as a proof of concept for a feature film I hope to make next.
Q: What’s the most unexpected or funny thing that happened on set?
A: Spending the night guarding our equipment for two nights in a house without central heating in the middle of winter was definitely unexpected.
Q: Why are festivals like the FAME Shorts Film Festival so important?
A: I’m excited to screen my film to audiences in South Africa and grateful for this opportunity. Festivals like FAME are essential for showcasing diverse narratives, empowering independent creators, and fostering a vibrant filmmaking community through networking and professional development opportunities.
