For the past near on 24 months, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with the baddest of ass women to see through the delivery of a little queer indie feature we call Under the Influencer.
To say the journey from conception to giving birth to this creative baby has been littered with hurdles would be an understatement. That’s the nature of low-budget filmmaking though. The potential pitfalls are nigh on infinite and relentless. That’s why it’s truly a miracle that any immaculately conceived film ever gets made at all.
But, we did it. In the words of Andrea Caulfield, our film’s antagonist, “I push, you deliver”. My co-pilots, collaborators-in-chief, work-wives if you will, are a sterling, talented, undefeatable bunch.
Jill Bennett, my producing partner, work soul mate, is the stuff of lesbian legend. I’m in awe at not only her track record of work, but her generosity, humility, grace and humour. She’s taught me everything I now know about producing well.
Bryn Woznicki, my darling friend and kindred spirit, our positivity champion, who led the set with politeness and respect, pioneering a compassionate production approach. Directress unrivalled.
Skye Emerson, who’s words I’ve quoted in this blog piece, who gave voice to our leading duo, articulating their passions, motivations, ambiguity and complexity into thematic bliss on the page and then beyond. Brava!
And Lauren Neal. Words are not enough. A well of inspiration to us all, whose commitment to the vision and aspiration of what is possible within the most minimal of resources is nothing short of remarkable. She brought us over the finish line with a final flourish.
Now we turn our baby over to you, as we plan to screen at festivals and beyond. We look forward to your engagement, responses, questions, answers.
Katie M Hall 