Girls On Film

On this episode of Girls On Film, Anna Smith sits down with the creative team behind the British-Italian film Brides, which is the directorial debut of Nadia Fall. They discuss teenage friendship, the inspirations and themes that shaped the story, and they touch on the international collaboration behind the production. Brides follows two British Muslim teenagers, Doe and Muna, as they leave the UK for Syria in search of freedom, belonging, and purpose. Inspired by real events, the film offers a sensitive and gripping look at identity, friendship, and the search for meaning in complex circumstances. Joining Anna for a live Q&A panel are actor Safiyya Ingar (Muna in the film), writer Suhayla El-Bushra, and producer Nicky Bentham. They reflect on the inspiration behind the film, casting choices, and the emotional journey of bringing such an intense and thought-provoking story to life. Thanks to Vue Lumière for partnering with us on this episode. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Negin Nia Intern: Ruby Bradshaw Audio Editor: Emma Butt Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer © HLA Agency

On this episode of Girls On Film, Anna Smith speaks with the creative teams behind two strikingly different films, both exploring relationships, emotion, and identity. First, she sits down with Emma Thompson to discuss Dead of Winter, a tense new thriller directed by Brian Kirk. Thompson stars as Barb, a widow caught in a deadly snowstorm in northern Minnesota. They talk about stepping into this high-stakes role, balancing action with emotion, the challenges of filming, and the layered relationship between Barb and her late husband. Later, Anna is joined by filmmaker Sophie Dupuis to talk about her Canadian romantic drama Solo. Together, they explore the inspiration behind the story, the filmmaking process, and the themes at its core. SOLO, which is described as “a shower of glitter,” tells the story of Simon, an emerging Montreal drag queen caught between a destructive love affair and a long-awaited, complicated reunion with his mother. With the most queer cast ever assembled in a Canadian production, the film embraces queerness not as conflict, but as community, perspective, and joy. SOLO is out now in UK cinemas, go to Solofilm.co.uk for info on where to see the film whenever you are listening to this podcast DEAD OF WINTER will be released in UK and Irish cinemas from 26th September. This episode is in partnership with Peccadillo Pictures. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Negin Nia Audio Editor: Elliana Jay Hamer This episode is in part-partnership with Peccadillo Pictures Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer Sponsored by Lilac Grove Entertainment © HLA Agency

For its landmark 200th episode, Girls On Film celebrates with a very special discussion on the future of film criticism and the vital role of diverse voices. The episode begins with heartfelt, celebratory words from listeners, past guests, and colleagues, reflecting on the journey of the podcast since its launch. Host Anna Smith then unveils The Critical Gap, a ground-breaking new survey commissioned by Girls On Film and conducted by Louisa Livingston and her team at Forward Thought. Inspired by the 2018 Annenberg Inclusion Initiative research that sparked the creation of this podcast, this UK-focused study surveyed over 100 critics of all genders, addressing issues of access, diversity and pay. The findings reveal stark inequalities: women film critics earn over 19% less than men—one of the worst gender pay gaps in UK culture. The report also highlights systemic barriers and ongoing challenges faced by underrepresented groups. The full report is now available on the Girls On Film website. To discuss the findings, Anna is joined by two leading voices in film criticism: Jane Crowther, Chair of the Critics’ Circle Film Section, and Akua Gyamfi, founder of The British Blacklist. Together, they reflect on the survey, progress made, the spaces still needed for meaningful conversation, and the steps towards a more inclusive future for film criticism. Anna is also joined by Hanna Flint, co-founder of the LFF Critics Support Fund, the crowdfunded initiative offering financial aid to critics from low-income backgrounds so they can attend the BFI London Film Festival. Special thanks to Lilac Grove Entertainment for sponsoring this celebratory episode. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Negin Nia Intern: Ruby Bradshaw Audio Editor: Emma Butt Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer © HLA Agency

Host Anna Smith is joined by PAST LIVES director Celine Song to talk about her new star-studded film, MATERIALISTS. Lucy (Dakota Johnson) works as a match-maker struggling to balance financial expectations with love. Celine discusses being a feminist filmmaker, her own match-making career, and the struggle of universal loneliness. She also gives some personal advice to young women in film. Anna then speaks to Jasmin Gordon about her directorial debut THE COURAGEOUS, which follows a rebellious mother living on the edge of society who fights to keep her family together. Jasmin talks about the impact of her childhood on the film, pressure on women and mothers, and rebellion in current times. Jasmin also reveals exclusive information about her next feature film. MATERIALISTS is in UK and Irish cinemas from August 13, 2025. THE COURAGEOUS is comes to UK and Irish cinemas September 5, 2025. MOTHERBOARD releases August 15 2025. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Intern: Ruby Bradshaw Audio Editor: Emma Butt Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer © HLA Agency

For its 198th episode, Girls On Film returns to Latitude Festival, where host Anna Smith chairs a panel with four brilliant women in film and television. This is the third live Girls On Film podcast recording from the festival, and it’s absolutely fabulous! First up, Anna is joined by actor Jane Horrocks, who talks about her work on Absolutely Fabulous, on Life Is Sweet with director Mike Leigh, and on her role in Chicken Run, as well as the changes she has witnessed in the film and television industries over the course of her career. Next Anna speaks with Priya Kansara, known for her roles in Polite Society, Bridgerton, and Dope Girls, and then invites two of the driving forces behind the 2025 film Lollipop onto the stage, director Daisy-May Hudson and writer-performer Posy Sterling. Daisy-may also discusses her feature documentary Holloway. Together, the women talk about collaborating, imposter syndrome and the systemic changes they would like to see in the industry to improve access and representation for underrepresented groups. This episode was recorded at The Listening Post at Latitude Festival on Friday 25th of July 2025. Special thanks to Latitude, and to our sponsor for this episode, Lilac Grove Entertainment. Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ Or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Visit our new website www.girlsonfilm.org.uk Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Audio Editor: Benjamin Cook Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer Sponsored by Lilac Grove Entertainment © HLA Agency

We switch from movies to the stage to talk about SING STREET: THE MUSICAL. Anna speaks with iconic producer Barbara Broccoli about her approach in adapting the film into a stage show. Barbara came on our 100th episode of Girls On Film to talk about her work, the Time's Up movement, and No Time To Die. As well as producing the Bond films at Eon Productions, she has produced female-led movies such as Film Stars Don't Die In Liverpool, Nancy, Till, and Blue Road: The Edna O'Brien Story. Anna also chats with the show’s director, Rebecca Taichman, about approaching the correct tone and staging for the show. Rebecca is one of only six women to win the TONY Award for Best Direction of a Play, which she took home in 2017 for "INDECENT," by Paula Vogel. With a diverse repertoire spanning Shakespeare, contemporary plays, opera, and musicals, Taichman is a visionary director who enjoys conceiving of and co-creating new work. We're also joined by John Carney who is known for music-led films such as Once and Begin Again, and who directed and co-wrote the original feature film Sing Street. SING STREET: THE MUSICAL is running from July 8 - August 23 2025 at the Hammersmith Theatre, London. Check out the website for more details: https://lyric.co.uk/shows/sing-street/ . Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ . Or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Visit our new website www.girlsonfilm.org.uk Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here:www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast / www.facebook.com/ girlsonfilmpodcast / https://bsky.app/profile/girlsonfilmpodcast.bsky.social https://bsky.app/profile/annasmithjourno.bsky.social Watch Girls On Film on the BFl's YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX...L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Audio Editor: Emma Butt. This episode is supported by Lilac Grove Entertainment. Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer © HLA Agency

Host Anna Smith brings you a special episode of Girls On Film from the Mediterrane Film Festival in Malta, which this year celebrates 100 years of movie-making on the island. From Malta, Anna speaks with producer Susan Simnett, known for Brides, Chuck Chuck Baby, and Fadhia’s Tree. She also chats to Euphoria star Barbie Ferreira, who received this year’s Rising Star Award, and BAFTA-winning actor Monica Dolan, who presented at the festival’s Golden Bee Awards. Back in the UK, broadcaster, film, TV and culture critic Ashanti Omkar joins Anna to discuss three powerful new films: Daisy-May Hudson and Sophie Compton’s documentary Holloway, Athina Rachel Tsangari’s medieval drama Harvest, and Claude Barras’s stop-motion animation Savages. Harvest will be coming to UK cinemas on 18 July 2025. Keep an eye out for upcoming screenings of Holloway with Reclaim the Frame - championing intersectional feminist cinema across the UK. Check out their website for more details Savages will be released in the UK and Ireland on 1 August 2025. Find out more about the Mediterrane Film Festival on their website https://mediterrane.com/ Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ Or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Visit our new website www.girlsonfilm.org.uk Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Audio Editor: Cam Griffiths Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer © HLA Agency

We’re back in the French Riviera for a very special episode, as Girls On Film returns to the 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival. This year, host Anna Smith welcomed guests to the second Girls On Film Cannes Do at The Members Club. This glamorous networking event on the beach brought together filmmakers, critics, and creatives celebrating the power of women in cinema. In this episode, you’ll hear reflections from our community on what Girls On Film means to them. Later on in the episode Anna reunites with film journalist Wendy Ide who reflects on this year’s films, which she says have been of a consistently high standard. Wendy shares her standout picks from the festival, from the fiercely divisive Die, My Love, a visceral exploration of the raw edges of motherhood and mental unravelling, to Sound of Falling, a haunting meditation on how trauma echoes through time and place. She also dives into Sirât, an allegorical road movie, in which gender and disability are refreshingly incidental, not defining. Plus other titles that are already generating serious awards buzz. And finally, we’re joined by Liza van der Smissen and Nicole Lieberman, founders of the Female Film Club. This trailblazing global network uplifts women in the industry through practical workshops, seminars and a thriving, supportive community. They share the story behind their mission and how they’re helping to reshape the future of film, one powerful connection at a time. They also unveil an exciting new opportunity: a £10,000 investment in a short film, designed to give back to their talented global community. To enter from 16th June onwards, filmmakers must join their networking space. If you’re looking to join a space that champions and supports women in film, don’t miss out – click this link to join the Female Film Club: [link: https://female-film-club.mn.co/users/onboarding/choose_plan?plan_id=1818474&bundle_token=aca8b4a8f139016aca1a9fdc680a97a8&utm_source=manual] We would also like to thank our incredible sponsors for all their support: Col Needham and Karen Needham at IMDb: [link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt18211920/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_3_tt_8_nm_0_in_0_q_girls%2520on%2520film] Clare Bateman-King at Lilac Grove Entertainment: [https://lilacgrove.com/] JoJo Dye at JJD Consultancy: [link: https://jjdconsultancy.com/] Jane Owen at Jane Owen PR: [https://janeowenpr.com/] The House of Oria: [https://www.thehouseoforia.com/] Sunny Pal at Astella: [https://www.instagram.com/astellajewellery/?hl=en] HLA Agency: [https://hlaagency.co.uk/] Films mentioned in this episode: Die, My Love, Lynne Ramsay Eleanor the Great, Scarlett Johansson The History of Sound, Oliver Hermanus Mastermind, Kelly Reichardt My Father’s Shadow, Akinola Davies Pillion, Harry Lighton Romería, Carla Simón Sirât, Oliver Laxe Sorry Baby, Eva Victor Sound of Falling, Mascha Schilinski The Secret Agent, Kleber Mendonça Filho Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold, who also produced this episode Audio Editor: Benjamin Cook Intern: Hattie Morris Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer © HLA Agency

Host Anna Smith brings you an exclusive conversation with the women of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, recorded live at London’s Ham Yard Hotel. This latest instalment in the high-octane Mission: Impossible franchise sees Ethan Hunt and the IMF team race against time to confront the Entity, a rogue artificial intelligence threatening global destruction. Joining Anna for this special panel are two talents at the heart of the action: Pom Klementieff, who takes on the role of Paris, and Angela Bassett, returning as Erika Sloane, the President of the United States. Together, they delve into the challenges of working on one of cinema’s most physically demanding franchises, explore the critical role costume design plays in shaping their characters, and reflect on the powerful, real-world impact of casting a Black woman as the US president in a fictional universe. Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Intern: Anna Swartz Audio editor: Alex Jones Sound recordist: Erin Millican House band: MX Tyrants This episode is in partnership with Netflix © HLA Agency

In this star-studded episode, Anna Smith and co-founder Hedda Lornie Archbold delve into two exciting new films led by complex and captivating women. First, Anna chats with Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Geraldine Viswanathan, stars of Thunderbolts*—the latest Marvel Cinematic Universe film. Together, they discuss their first meeting, stepping into a superhero world alongside Florence Pugh and bringing depth and humour to their roles. Then, Hedda speaks with producer Rosie Fellner and actor Elizabeth Reaser about The Uninvited—a darkly funny and deeply poignant film that explores gender, aging, and identity in Hollywood. Reaser portrays Rose, a once-famous actress whose life is upended by a mysterious guest at a glamorous Hollywood gathering. The film also stars Walton Goggins, Lois Smith, Eva De Dominici, Pedro Pascal, and Rufus Sewell, and is writer-director Nadia Conners’ debut feature. Thunderbolts* landed in UK cinemas 1 May 2025 The Uninvited is in UK cinemas 9 May 2025 http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Intern: Hattie Morris Audio editor: Benjamin Cook House band: MX Tyrants Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer © HLA Agency

In this special episode recorded at the Glasgow Film Festival, Jessica Lange joins Girls On Film host Anna Smith to reflect on her extraordinary career across stage and screen. She discusses her latest film, Long Day’s Journey Into Night, which premiered at the festival, and shares insights into her rural Minnesota upbringing, early years studying mime in Paris, and her upcoming role as Marlene Dietrich. Jessica also revisits some of her most iconic roles, from portraying Frances Farmer in the heartbreaking biopic Frances to starring alongside Dustin Hoffman in the genre-defying comedy Tootsie. She also explores her more recent work on American Horror Story, which not only cemented her status as an acting legend but also introduced her to a new generation of fans. Beloved by Gen X and Gen Z alike, Jessica’s performances continue to captivate audiences across film, television and stage. Acclaimed as one of the greatest actresses of her generation, Jessica is the 15th Oscar winner to appear on Girls On Film. The conversation was recorded on 1 March 2025. http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Intern: Anna Swartz Audio editor: Alex Jones House band: MX Tyrants Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer © HLA Agency

In this episode of Girls On Film, recorded at the 2025 Glasgow Film Festival, host Anna Smith is joined by co-founder and Executive Producer of the podcast, Hedda Lornie Archbold, to bring listeners exclusive interviews with some of the festival’s stars. They welcome insights from Festival Director Allison Gardner, star of opening gala film Tornado, Kōki, and two of the creative minds behind The Extraordinary Miss Flower. Allison Gardner talks about her highlights of her final year leading the Glasgow Film Festival. Kōki, the rising star of Tornado, opens up about her role as the daughter of a Japanese puppeteer in John Maclean’s thriller. And Emiliana Torrini and Caroline Catz dive into their work on The Extraordinary Miss Flower, a genre-blending love letter to love letters, set to Torrini’s dreamy soundtrack. The Extraordinary Miss Flower will be released in the UK on 9 May 2025. Tornado will be available in cinemas from 23 May 2025. Glasgow Film Festival 2025 runs from 26 February to 9 March 2025. For more information on screenings and tickets, visit the Glasgow Film Festival website https://www.glasgowfilm.org/home March is International Women’s Month, and this year also marks the 20th Anniversary of Birds Eye View Festival, now Reclaim the Frame, a charity championing women filmmakers. The festival will host a Weekender from 7–9 March 2025 at BFI Southbank and Regent Street Cinema, featuring events, screenings, and a special showing of Lollipop, which featured in episode 181 of Girls On Film. For more details, visit reclaimtheframe.org.Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Intern: Anna Swartz Audio editor: Benjamin Cook House band: MX Tyrants Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer © HLA Agency

Host Anna Smith brings you an exclusive conversation with Zoe Saldaña, Clément Ducol and Camille, recorded live at London’s Charlotte Street Hotel following a screening of the 13 time Oscar-nominated and 12 time BAFTA-nominated film Emilia Pérez. Directed by Jacques Audiard, this genre-blending musical thriller tells the story of a lawyer who becomes entangled in the world of a cartel boss undergoing a dramatic personal transformation. Starring Karla Sofía Gascón, Zoe Saldaña, Selena Gomez and Adriana Paz, the film is generating awards buzz for its bold storytelling and powerful performances. Joining Anna for this discussion is Oscar-nominee Zoe Saldaña, who plays Rita in the film. She shares her experience collaborating with versatile French filmmaker Jacques Audiard on bringing to life the story of four Latina women, citing how refreshing it was to embody a flawed woman, the character of Rita. She’s joined by Clément Ducol and Camille, the composers and songwriters behind the film’s evocative soundtrack, who share insights into the five-year-long creative process of bringing Emilia Pérez's distinctive musical identity to life. This episode was recorded live on 31 January 2025 and is brought to you in partnership with Netflix. Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Intern: Anna Swartz Audio editor: Alex Jones Sound recordist: Erin Millican House band: MX Tyrants This episode is in partnership with Netflix © HLA Agency

In this special episode recorded at the 2025 Girls On Film Awards, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of women and people of marginalised genders in the film industry. Hosted by co-founders of Girls On Film Anna Smith and Hedda Lornie Archbold, the evening features inspiring speeches, awards across 14 categories, and interviews with some standout guests. You'll hear highlights from the ceremony, including insights from Oscar-nominated directors Coralie Fargeat (The Substance) and Shiori Itō (Black Box Diaries) as well as Oscar-nominated Actress Karla Sofía Gascón (Emilia Pérez). Also in this episode, attendees reflect on the importance of women-led cinema and diverse voices in the industry. We also spotlight the sponsors and partners who made the event possible: our Gold Sponsors, CrewHQ and IMDb; our Silver Sponsor, Curzon; and our Bronze Sponsors, Netflix and Intimacy on Set. We are grateful for the support of our media partners Deadline, British Cinematographer magazine, and DDA, and to Lilac Grove Entertainment for sponsoring the reception. The awards celebrate the ongoing progress toward more inclusive storytelling, and this episode brings you right into the heart of the celebration. This episode is sponsored by Elstree Film Studios, who are celebrating their centenary in 2025. Full list of winners BEST FEATURE FILM The Substance BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE Black Box Diaries BEST PERFORMANCE IN A LEADING ROLE Marianne Jean-Baptiste (Hard Truths) BEST PERFORMANCE IN A SUPPORTING ROLE Danielle Deadwyler (The Piano Lesson) FEMALE FRIENDSHIP ON SCREEN All We Imagine as Light ENSEMBLE CAST Emilia Pérez THE GIRLS ON FILM ALLY AWARD SPONSORED BY IMDb Mike Leigh (Hard Truths) BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY SPONSORED BY CREWHQ Hélène Louvart AFC (La Chimera) BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN Judy Becker (The Brutalist) BEST COSTUME DESIGN Linda Muir (Nosferatu) BEST COMPOSER Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear (Moana 2) BEST PUBLICITY CAMPAIGN Universal (Wicked) ACTIVIST IMPACT AWARD Shiori Ito (Black Box Diaries) FEMALE ORGASM ON SCREEN SPONSORED BY INTIMACY ON SET Nicole Kidman (with Nicole Kidman, and later Harris Dickinson) (Babygirl) Full list of commendations ENSEMBLE CAST Chuck Chuck Baby BEST COMPOSER Isobel Waller-Bridge (Wicked Little Letters) BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN Gemma Jackson (Lee) BEST COSTUME DESIGN Rebecca Gore (Timestalker) Find out more here https://hlaagency.co.uk/category/projects/girls-on-film-awards/ Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Interns: Anna Swartz and Oli Fyne Sound recordist: Erin Macmillan Audio editor: Benjamin Cook House band: MX Tyrants © HLA Agency

Anna Smith takes a closer look at the poignant, BAFTA-nominated Netflix documentary Daughters, co-directed by Natalie Rae and Angela Patton. The film intimately portrays the lives of four young Black women in the United States, navigating the emotional challenges of growing up with fathers who are incarcerated. Directors Natalie and Angela join Anna to discuss their eight-year journey bringing this powerful story to life, from filming during the pandemic to building an open and compassionate dialogue with the young women seen on screen, all culminating in the transformative Daddy Daughter Dance at the heart of the documentary. Angela Patton, CEO of Girls For A Change, shares her perspective on amplifying young women’s voices, while Natalie Rae delves into the creative and emotional process of filming such a personal and moving story in this episode of Girls On Film. Daughters is available to stream on Netflix now. Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Intern: Anna Swartz Audio editor: Emma Butt House band: MX Tyrants This episode is in partnership with Netflix © HLA Agency

In this episode, host Anna Smith transports listeners to the world of Wicked. She speaks with three key creatives behind this enchanting film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, bringing this iconic story of friendship, magic, and love to life on the big screen. Hair, Makeup, and Prosthetics Designer Frances Hannon discusses how she approached creating Elphaba’s iconic green look. Director of Photography Alice Brooks explains how she updated the technicolour dreamworld of Oz through the film’s cinematography. And, Costume Designer Paul Tazewell describes how he developed a ‘language of clothing’ to reflect the world and characters of Oz. The episode highlights the significant role that Hair and Makeup Design, Costume Design and Cinematography play in bringing the story of these two complex women to life. Listeners will get a glimpse into the artistry behind the film and the collaborative effort that makes Wicked both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. Wicked is in UK cinemas now, with part two coming next year. Let us know what you think on social media - tag Girls On Film and use the hashtag #WickedMovie. Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Intern: Anna Swartz Audio editor: Emma Butt House band: MX Tyrants This episode is in partnership with Universal Pictures © HLA Agency

Girls On Film brings you a live recording from the BFI’s Art of Action season at the Exeter Phoenix Cinema in Devon. Host Anna Smith is joined by Priya Kansara, star of the genre-blending feminist action film Polite Society. Following a screening of Nida Manzoor’s 2023 film, Priya discusses her lead role as Ria, a spirited young martial artist determined to stop her sister’s wedding with an audacious heist. She describes how, despite their different heritages, she instantly identified with the character of Ria, and revealed how she worked with Manzoor to put a personal spin on the film's more comedic scenes. Priya also discusses the reality of finding a stunt double when you’re a brown girl, calling for change in this area of the industry, as well as sharing some top tips for film industry newcomers to battle imposter syndrome. Listen to hear more! The conversation includes a post-screening Q&A with audience questions. This episode is part of Art of Action: Smash the Glass, a season that celebrates the women who have advanced action cinema both on and off-screen. The season is supported by National Lottery and BFI Film Audience Network with generous sponsorship from Packexe. To find out more about the BFI’s Art of Action season, and, for our UK listeners, to see which films are screening near you, visit the British Film Institute website below. The season is running from October to December 2024. https://www.bfi.org.uk/art-action Also in this week’s episode, Girls On Film is delighted to be celebrating our sixth birthday with the Female Film Club - a global members’ club specifically for women in film - who are turning four. Together we share 10 years in the industry, and to mark the occasion Female Film Club are opening up their networking space to Girls On Film listeners who work the film industry: They offer a completely free networking space designed to help you make meaningful connections within the industry and to network with other members. With thousands of members in their database, you’ll be joining a supportive community of creatives worldwide. With free membership, you’ll get access to the FFC app, direct messaging with fellow members, and exclusive perks like special events and industry opportunities. It’s a fantastic way to grow your network, build your skills, and get real support—some members have even landed jobs through it! https://female-film-club.mn.co/sign_up?bundle_token=e2f89f5961bbb9100aff796e6b36e50c&plan_id=479915&utm_source=manual” Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Intern: Anna Swartz Audio editor: Benjamin Cook House band: MX Tyrants © HLA Agency

In this special episode from the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival, Anna Smith hosts a panel discussion on women in leadership within the film industry. In the third iteration of this panel, Anna is joined by three international industry leaders: Kirsty Bell, CEO of the Oscar-winning production company Goldfinch, international film publicity strategist Mia Farrell and Oscar-nominated producer Rebecca Pruzan. Together, they explore the pathways to landing leadership roles, the skills needed to thrive once there, and the shifting dynamics of gender and race in the film industry. Kirsty Bell shares her experiences starting Goldfinch as a family business and reflects on directing A Bird Flew In—the first film shot during the pandemic, which pioneered COVID protocols on set. She also highlights the importance of supportive men in her life, and how they’ve played a role in her career. Mia Farrell offers insights from her career as a publicist, discussing her passion for elevating films through strategic PR, as well as her advocacy for greater diversity in the industry. She tells the audience about the genesis of her impactful Screen Daily article, "Why are so few Black people in positions of power in the arthouse film PR sector?'”. Mia also shares her experiences working on The Dads, a heartfelt documentary on fatherhood and trans youth, directed by Luschina Fisher, and available on Netflix. Rebecca Pruzan discusses her transition from a career in IT and consultancy to becoming an Oscar-nominated producer. She reflects on the identity politics at play in producing her short film IVALU, highlighting the challenges of navigating cultural sensitivities in storytelling and discussing the reaction to the film on its festival journey. This episode is in partnership with Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival. You can find out more about the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival here: https://www.evolutionfilmfestival.com/tickets A reminder that you can read a transcript of our episodes on Apple Podcasts by clicking the ‘transcript’ option in settings in the episode description. Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.x.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.x/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Intern: Anna Swartz Audio editor: Benjamin Cook House band: MX Tyrants © HLA Agency

In this festival special, Anna Smith island hops across some of the most unique film festivals of the season, taking listeners from Sea Change festival in Scotland’s Tiree to the London Film Festival before ending in Mallorca to hear about the upcoming Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival 2024. First, Anna reports from this year’s Sea Change Film Festival in the Inner Hebrides. She speaks with filmmaker Jeanie Finlay (Your Fat Friend, Seahorse) and festival-goers like Reclaim The Frame’s Melanie Iredale about their time at Scotland’s only annual festival dedicated to powering women in film. Next, she heads to the BFI London Film Festival to meet actor Deba Hekmat and writer Helen Simmons, whose film Last Swim has its premiere at this year’s festival. This coming of age drama tells the story of Ziba, a young woman who celebrates her A-Level results with friends while grappling with a personal secret. With Anna, Deba discusses the authenticity of the film’s dialogue, how it captured Gen Z sensibilities almost perfectly, and how she resonated with the character of Ziba. Helen reflects on working with a translator to capture an authentic Farsi that is spoken by Ziba and her mother in Last Swim, as well as speaking about the lack of representation of driven and intelligent young women in film. Anna also catches up with some friends of the podcast when she is out and about at LFF. Finally, it’s off to Spain for a preview of the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival. Anna sits down with festival director Sandra Lipski to discuss some of her feminist festival highlights. Sandra gives us an insight into the 2024 lineup, including the festival’s plan to welcome five time Academy Award-nominee Annette Bening to Mallorca's sunny shores. Films Mentioned: Last Swim (2024) Black Box Diaries (2024) Anora (2024) Conclave (2024) All We Imagine As Light (2024) Twiggy (2024) The Extraordinary Miss Flower (2024) Las chicas de la estación (2024) The Grifters (1990) The Outrun (2024) Endurance (2024) Emilia Perez (2024) Your Fat Friend (2023) Widow Clicquot (2024) Hoard (2024) Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer Our partners for this episode: Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival You can buy tickets for Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival from the 17th October 2024 via this link: https://www.evolutionfilmfestival.com/tickets Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.x.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.x/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Intern: Anna Swartz Audio editor: Benjamin Cook House band: MX Tyrants © HLA Agency

Anna Smith speaks to Lily Ahree Siegel, director of Equal Play, a new short documentary that discusses the importance of equal access to school sports for disabled children. Anna is also joined by Lindsey Dryden, director, writer, producer, executive producer, as well as co-founder of FWD-DOC, and Clare Baines, the BFI’s Inclusion Partner, to talk about equal access within the film industry and the bigger issues touched on in Equal Play. First, Clare discusses her personal connection to the documentary, revealing to Anna how losing her eyesight at 15 affected her ability to participate in school sports. Clare also advocates the importance of educating kids about their bodies. As a disabled woman in the film industry, Lindsey highlights the inaccessibility of disabled people entering the world of entertainment. She questions the disparity between disabled stories in documentaries vs narratives and encourages more joyous cinematic portrayals of the disabled experience. Lindsey and Clare share their favourite film depictions that capture the disabled experience. They also call for a disability revolution including more on-screen celebrations about disabilities. Next up, Lily Ahree Siegel discusses her background within the arts and what inspired her to become a documentary filmmaker. Lily highlights access to PE and sports as an issue affecting kids worldwide, discusses the importance of inclusion passports, and shares her favourite moment on set. Equal Play is available to watch on Channel 4 - https://www.channel4.com/programmes/equal-play A reminder that you can read a transcript of our episodes on Apple Podcasts by clicking the ‘transcript’ option in settings in the episode description. This episode is brought to you by Harder Than You Think. Films/TV Shows/Books mentioned: The Gleaners and I (Agnes Varda) We Might Regret This (created by Kyla Harris) - available on BBC The Callers (Lindsey Dryden) Lost In Sound (Lindsey Dryden) Coda (Sian Heder) Trans In America (produced by Lindsey Dryden and Shaleece Haas) Unrest (Jennifer Brea) Patrice: The Movie (Ted Passon) - available on Hulu and showing at LFF 2024 Crip Camp (James Lebrecht and Nicole Newnham) - available on Netflix I Didn’t See You There (Reid Davenport) - available to rent on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Google Play Is Anybody Out There (Ella Bee Glendining) - available on ITVX and Netflix The Tube Thieves (Alison O’Daniel) - available on PBS Feminist, Queer, Crip by Alison Kafer Websites mentioned: TV Access - https://www.channel4.com/4producers/creative-equity/tv-access-project Sins Invalid - https://www.sinsinvalid.org/blog/10-principles-of-disability-justice FWD-DOC - https://www.fwd-doc.org/ TripleC - https://triplec.org.uk/ DANC - https://triplec.org.uk/danc/ Deaf and Disabled People in TV - https://www.ddptv.org/ Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Charlotte Matheson Assistant Producer: Jade Evans Intern: Anna Swartz Audio editor: Benjamin Cook band: MX Tyrants © HLA Agency