The Reel Girls Club

In this episode of The Reel Girls Club, I'm joined by Swiss/French Writer & Director, Julie Magnaudet, whose work shines a light on the complexities of women's lives. With a background in both writing and filmmaking, Julie brings a sharp eye for storytelling that blends intimate character work with broader social themes,Her latest short film, The Contraception Fair - produced by Candid Broads Productions - offers a witty yet poignant look at contraception, autonomy, and the cultural narratives that shape women's choices.In honor of World Contraception Day, Julie shares the inspiration behind the project, her creative process as a writer and director, and the importance of telling stories that challenge stigma and spark conversation.It's an engaging discussion about cinema, reproductive rights, and the power of women behind the camera,Learn more about Julie's work here: juliemagnaudet.comWatch The Contraception Fair trailer here; The Contraception Fair — Candid Broads Productions

In this episode of The Reel Girl's Club, I'm joined by Canadian-Italian, filmmaker, writer and creative producer Issabella Orlando, to explore her stunning short film, Topos - a poetic reflection on place, heritage, and the archeology of identity.Blending ancient myth with visual storytelling, Topos meditates on what it means to be rooted in a place, to inherit memory, and to make art that honors cultural lineage.Issabella and I discuss how material culture, language and sound shape narrative - and how a short film can carry deep emotional and historical weight. We also touch on Issabella's background in Classics and archeology, and her broader vision for storytelling that bridges the past with the present, and much more.You can discover more of Issabella's work here and here.

In this special bonus episode, I'm joined by Oscar-nominated (The Edge Of Democracy) filmmaker Petra Costa to discuss her powerful new documentary Apocalypse In The Tropics, now streaming on Netflix.The film explores the rise of evangelical power in Brazilian politics and the erosion of democracy through a deeply personal lens. Petra shares the story behind the making of the film, her creative process, and what it means to document history in real time.A short but essential conversation with one of the most fearless voices in contemporary documentary filmmaking today.Watch Apocalypse In The Tropics on Netflix hereDisclaimer: This conversation includes discussion of religion and its role in politics.

In this episode, I sit down with multidisciplinary talent, Ella Dorman-Gajic, English-Serbian writer, performer, and filmmaker - to explore her powerful short film Back of the Net, a multi-award-winning short film directed by Klara Kaliger and written by Ella Dorman-Gajic.Back of the Net is more than just a sports film - it's a moving portrait of girlhood, power, and persistence and is the perfect film to see right now as excitement builds in the run up to the Women's Euros in July!Synopsis: 'Maya, a passionate young footballer, is given an opportunity that could offer her the future she’s always dreamed of. But now, the one person who inspired her pursuit of this dream, her grandmother, is the only thing holding her back. A heartfelt, bitingly human story of care, female aspiration and the evolution of women’s football in a male-dominated world.'It has been selected for 20+ film festivals globally (including BAFTA and BIFA-accredited festivals) and picked up 5 awards, including ‘Best Screenplay’ (at Healdsburg International Festival, judged by Tom Waits) and ‘Youth Jury Prize’ (at Women X Festival).It stars Ella herself, and Maureen Casey alongside Emmy-nominee Tom Goodman-Hill. It is Executive Produced by Lewes Depot Cinema, Declan Lowney (director of TED LASSO), Sandro Monetti, Football scholar Jean Williams, Rob MacDonald, Sushant Sharma Bhattarai, Ella Dorman-Gajic.We dive into the inspirations behind the project, the creative process from script to screen, and the deeply personal themes it tackles - from identity and belonging to resilience on and off the pitch.Ella shares insights into her journey as a storyteller, the importance of platforming underrepresented voices in British film and advice for aspiring writers and creatives alike. We also unpack the challenges and joys of blending poetry, performance, and activism through visual storytelling.You can review Back of the Net on Letterboxd HERE.For more information about Ella's work, visit her website HERE.KEY DATES mentioned in the podcast:4th-6th July: 'Off The Chest' poetry performance during the 'Love Supreme Festival'7th July: Poetry headline performance at 'Everything Poetry Night'19th July: LA Premiere, Lumiere Cinema Beverly Hills27th July: Screening at Lewes FC, including match and screening of Women's Euro FinalsIn July (TBA): Online premiere of Back of the Net during the Women's Euro Finals

In this special bonus episode, I'm joined by directors and writers, Vickie Curtis and Doug Anderson, from the US, to discuss their powerful new documentary 'COMPARSA', which will be premiering at the Sheffield DocFest 2025.Set in Ciudad Peronia, Guatemela, the film follows sisters Lesli and Lupe, whose activism is ignited by the 2017 fire at a state-run children's home that killed 41 girls - a tragedy emblematic of Guatemala's wider crisis of gender-based violence. Told through the eyes of young women who have survived and endured, Comparsa captures a powerful journey of healing and resistance. Through music, dance, and collective protest, Lesli & Lupe lead their community in reclaiming space, voice, and dignity.The filmmakers share how they approached this deeply sensitive story, the role of creative collaboration, and what it means to bear witness to the strength of girls rising up.Comparsa premieres at the upcoming Sheffield DocFest on the following dates:Sat 21 June 20:45 - 22:24Curzon - Screen 1English Subtitles ThroughoutQ&A with directors Vickie Curtis and Doug Anderson, and protagonists Marta Chicoj, Lesli and Lupe Perez. Moderated by Mathy Selvakumaran.Sun 22 June 12:45 - 14:24The Light - Screen 9English Subtitles ThroughoutQ&A with directors Vickie Curtis and Doug Anderson, and protagonists Marta Chicoj, Lesli and Lupe Perez. Moderated by Amy Bryant.To book your tickets, follow the link HERE.Disclaimer: the sound drops out at 1:44 (the word intended was 'teenagers'), at 3:18 (word: seamstress) and again at 8:11.

In this special bonus episode for the Sheffield DocFest, I sit down with UK-based filmmaker and writer, Jessi Gutch to talk about her deeply personal and beautifully crafted documentary, Blue Has No Borders.Set in the port town of Folkestone, the film explores themes of migration, identity, and community through a hybrid documentary style that blurs the lines between filmmaker and subject, observer and participant. Jessi reflects on the power of collaborative storytelling, the emotional complexity of borders - visible and invisible - and the importance of vulnerability and humour in her creative process.Synopsis: 'A young filmmaker is determined to know her neighbours in the port town of Folkestone. But in the aftermath of Brexit, building new relationships isn’t easy. In Folkestone, which refugees attempt to reach from France on a daily basis, tensions are rife. Old traditions die hard, voices struggle to be heard and the notion of British identity is regularly asserted and contested. In the face of mounting pressure, Jessi Gutch sets out to do the unthinkable: seek common ground. Honest conversations with six people, grappling the divisions surrounding race, class and politics, give way to a rumination on how make sense of our present moment, in spite of all the uncertainty and fear. An ode to participatory filmmaking and forging messy friendships in your own backyard, Blue Has No Borders illustrates how spending time with people from all walks of life is in itself an act of hope.'Blues Has No Borders will be screening for the Sheffield Doc Fest on the following dates:Fri 20 June 21:00 - 22:47Showroom - Bertha DocHouse Screen 3Audio Description (AD)Q&A with director Jessi Gutch, and protagonists Heba Arab and Neil Jones. Moderated by Joan Parsons.Sat 21 June 10:15 - 12:02Curzon - Screen 3Audio Description (AD), Descriptive Subtitles (Open Captions)Q&A with director Jessi Gutch, and protagonists Dita Garbo and Josie Carter. Moderated by Dan Weldon.Sun 22 June 15:30 - 17:17Curzon - Screen 2Audio Description (AD)Q&A with director Jessi Gutch. Moderated by Hope Cook.Don't miss your chance to experience this powerful documentary film on the big screen!To book your tickets, click HEREYou can follow Jessi on Instagram @jessi_gutchPlease subscribe, share and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode and follow @reelgirlsclub on Instagram for updates, behind-the-scenes content and more.Disclaimer: Apologies for the imperfect sound, all is recorded over Zoom. Furthermore, I mention the Sheffield Doc Fest screenings in the interview, which had actually not yet happened at time of recording :)

From Cosmopolitan to the Cutting Room: Louise Ford on Editing Robert Egger's VisionIn this episode, I sit down with UK-born, NYC-based, Louise Ford, A.C.E., a dynamic creative force whose career journey has taken her from the fast-paced world of magazine journalism as a former Deputy Editor at Cosmopolitan UK to the immersive realm of film editing - where she's become a trusted collaborator of visionary director Robert Eggers (Nosferatu, The Witch, The Lighthouse, The Northman).In this episode, you'll learn:How Louise transitioned from print media to film post-productionWhat it's like editing for a filmmaker known for his atmospheric intensity and historical precisionThe creative and technical challenges of cutting films like NosferatuHer approach to storytelling through editing - and why rhythm, intuition, and trust are everythingHow she collaborates with directors and maintains her creative voiceAdvice for aspiring editors and her own inspirations in film editing... and so much more!Whether you're a filmmaker, editor, or just a lover of behind-the-scenes movie magic, Louise offers insight, honesty, and wisdom about the art of shaping a story frame by frame.Tune in and be inspired by a career that proves reinvention is not only possible - it can lead to your most fulfilling work!

In today's episode of the podcast, I'm joined by Oscar, BAFTA, Critics Choice & Emmy nominated (and Emmy winning!) set decorator, Regina Graves, the creative mind behind the richly detailed world of A Complete Unknown, The Irishman, Fallout and other major film productions. Regina is US-born & NYC-based.From her early days as an interior design student, to becoming a set decorator on one of the biggest films in the awards circuit this year, Regina shares her fascinating journey, the craft behind recreating historically authentic sets, and how she goes about finding the perfect pieces to decorate a film set.In this episode, you'll learn;How Regina & her team recreated Bob Dylan's NYC apartment in A Complete UnknownThe behind-the-scenes stories of sourcing authentic furniture, props, and materialsHow she builds a visual narrative across different time periodsThe inspiration and influences behind the sets of The Irishman...and much more!Whether you're a film buff, a budding set decorator or production designer, or just curious about what makes a movie come to life, this episode offers a rare look into the behind the scenes of set decorating.Disclaimer: I keep referring to decorating as designing in this episode, so just know the majority of the time, I meant decorating! ;)

In this bonus episode of The Reel Girls Club, I dive into the hauntingly beautiful short film Diary of a Ghost, directed by Caroline Hajny and written by Maren Koenigs. The film, which stars Genevieve Chenneour, Mia Rodgers, and Alfie Noble, explores love, loss, and grief with a deeply atmospheric and evocative approach.I'm joined by director Caroline Hajny and actor Alfie Noble for an insightful conversation about the creative process behind bringing this poignant story to life. They discuss how they captured the film's unique atmosphere, the challenges of telling such an intimate and emotional story, and what makes Diary of a Ghost such an important story to tell.You'll learn about:How Caroline Hajny and Maren Koenigs found the perfect cast for the film.The process behind capturing the film’s rich atmosphere, and the artistic decisions made to evoke such a strong emotional response.Insights from Alfie Noble on his role in the film and the experience of working on such a moving project.Tune in to hear all about this incredible short film and the talented women leading the charge behind it.CherryPick Presents:Event: Screening & Panel Discussion: Actors On ActingAn intimate screening of the short film Diary Of A Ghost followed by a Q&A with SAG-nominated actress Genevieve Chenneour (Bridgerton), Alfie Noble (Witness For The Prosecution) and Mia Rodgers (The Sex Lives Of College Girls) hosted by presenter and actress Zainab Jiwa.07 April 2025Clos Up Cinema Londondoors: 5.30pmstart: 6pmFollow @ReelGirlsClub on Instagram for more updates & content.

In this episode of The Reel Girls Club, I chat with Canadian (& a part Scottish!) costume designer Linda Muir. Known for her long-standing collaboration with director Robert Eggers, Linda takes us behind the scenes of her incredible work, particularly on the 2024 Nosferatu remake, which earned her both a BAFTA and Oscar nomination for Best Costume Design.You’ll learn about the challenges and rewards of designing costumes for a film that blends horror with artistry, as well as Linda’s unique approach to storytelling through costume design. From collaborating with Eggers to her creative process and techniques, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone passionate about film and design.What you'll learn in this episode:The creative challenges and process behind designing costumes for NosferatuHow Linda’s collaboration with Robert Eggers beganThe importance of costume design in conveying character and atmosphere in filmThe role of research and historical accuracy in her design workTips for aspiring costume designers working in the film industryTune in for a fascinating conversation about the intersection of art, history, and design in cinema!

In today's episode, I'm joined by two-time Oscar-nominated production designer, Judy Becker, from the US, whose work includes Brokeback Mountain, American Hustle, Carol and most recently,The Brutalist. Judy takes us behind the scenes of these iconic films, sharing her creative process and the challenges she faced in designing their unique worlds. We discuss how she collaborates with directors to bring their visions to life, as well as her approach to visual storytelling and 'method' production design. Judy also offers invaluable advice for aspiring production designers looking to break into the industry.In this episode, you'll learn:How Judy approached the production design for The Brutalist and other films such as American Hustle, Carol & Brokeback MountainThe process behind collaborating with directors to visually shape and bring their vision to lifeWhat she means by 'method' production design and an organic processValuable advice for aspiring production designersTime was limited, but I've included links below to other fascinating articles and interviews with Judy if you want to dig deeper intop her remarkable career and creative process. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the business!Watch the trailer for The Brutalist hereInside the Set | The Brutalist | Patricia Cuccia SDSA & Judy Becker - YouTubeMaking The Decision To Be A Production Designer and Nothing Else by Judy Becker of CAROL - YouTubeBrady Corbet, Mona Fastvold, Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, and More on The Brutalist | NYFF62 - YouTubePart 1/3 Review - Reframing “The Brutalist”: Exploring Bauhaus and Marcel Breuer’s Hidden Influence - YouTubeSBIFF 2025 - Variety Artisans Judy Becker Discussion (Production Design - The Brutalist) - YouTubeTHE BRUTALIST Q&A with Mona Fastvold and Judy Becker || Sag Harbor Cinema - YouTubePodcast edited by Christopher Breckon.

In today's bonus episode, I'm joined by Audrey Diwan, the French-Lebanese filmmaker and writer behind the Venice Film Festival Golden Lion-winning Happening and now her latest film, Emmanuelle, starring Noemie Merlant. Emmanuelle will be released in UK and Irish cinemas on the 17th of January 2025, followed by a digital release on the 24th of January.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Croatian make up & hair designer, Ivana Primorac - one of the most renowned in the film industry today. From creating iconic looks in Atonement andThe Hours to her work more recently on Barbie, Lee & We Live In Time, Ivana's artistry has brought countless characters to life.We dive into her creative process, the challenges of balancing historical accuracy with artistic interpretation, and her experiences working with some of the biggest names in Hollywood.Whether you're a film buff, a budding makeup artist, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes magic of movie-making, this episode is packed with inspiration and insights.What you'll learn in this episode:How Ivana approaches character design and storytelling through makeup and hairThe role of collaboration in the filmmaking processStories from her career working in award-winning films alongside the likes of Margot Robbie, Kate Winslet, Greta Gerwig, Nicole Kidman & Florence PughAdvice for aspiring artists looking to break into the industry...and so much more!Enjoy & thank you for listening!

In today's episode, I'm joined by British Director, Writer & Activist Ruby Phelan. Ruby trained as a dancer and worked both as a choreographer and dancer across Europe, before attending the Fontainebleau School of Acting in France. She then studied an MA in Directing & Writing at RADA. Ruby worked on several sold-out London stage productions, as well as working as a Director's Assistant on the hit Netflix series 'The Crown'. With her producer, BAFTA-nominated & BIFA-winning, Cheri Darbon, of June & Stella Productions, she is the inaugural Activist in Residence at the Feminist Centre for Racial Justice. For their short film, The Woman In The Wardrobe (made during their residency), Ruby & Cheri have partnered with the UN to fundraise for birthing kits to be sent to labouring women and health professionals in warzones.In today's conversation, we talk all about Ruby's days at acting school in France, to her experience on set of The Crown, what inspired the making of her short film, The Woman In The Wardrobe, her plans for the future, and much more!You can find more info about Ruby here: Home | Ruby Phelan

TW: The following discusses themes of SA.Today, in a BFI London Film Festival Special Bonus Episode, I'm joined by Japanese Journalist, Filmmaker & Women's Rights Activist, Shiori Ito.In this short but insightful conversation, we discuss her recent documentary 'Black Box Diaries', which recently premiered at the BFI London Film Festival and will have it's UK cinema release on the 25th of October 2024.Shiori is known for her role in challenging Japan's legal and cultural attitudes toward sexual violence. In 2015, Shiori accused high-profile journalist Noriyuki Yamaguchi of raping her while she was unconscious, a case that brought significant attention to issues of consent and sexual assault in Japan. After the authorities declined to prosecute, Shiori filed a civil lawsuit and won in 2019, becoming a symbol for the MeToo movement in Japan.Her work has sparked broader conversations about gender inequality, victim-blaming, and the need for legal reforms in Japan's handling of sexual violence. In 2020, Shiori was named one of TIME magazine's 100 Most Influential People, recognising her bravery in confronting Japan's culture of silence around sexual violence.Shiori is also author of 'Black Box' (2017), a memoir detailing her personal experience of sexual assault and her fight for justice.In 2018, Shiori also directed the documentary 'Japan's Secret Shame', which aired on the BBC.Shiori continues to advocate for survivors and raise awareness through her investigative journalism and public speaking.If you or anyone you know is affected by the themes discussed above or in the podcast, here are some useful resources:National Hotlines - Victim Connect Resource CenterNational Sexual Assault Hotline: Confidential 24/7 Support | RAINNSexual Assault and Rape Resources | Joyful Heart FoundationFind Help | National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)Want to talk? | Rape Crisis England & WalesHelp after rape and sexual assault - NHSThe national domestic abuse and sexual violence support line - 3919 - is now available in 185 languages - Women For Women FranceInformation and support - MindSamaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen

In today's episode of the podcast, I'm joined by Domee Shi. Domee is a Chinese-Canadian Director & VP, Screenwriter & Storyboard Artist at PIXAR Animation Studios (pinch me!)In this interview, we talk all about how Domee's childhood love of drawing, manga and anime turned into an education at Sheridan college starting out in storyboarding then finally, into a career at one of the biggest animation studios in the world.She started out as an intern, storyboarding on Inside Out & The Incredibles 2, to name a few, and has now gone on to make her Oscar-winning short Bao and has also directed her first feature length, Turning Red. She's currently co-directing on an upcoming feature-length, Elio, due for release in 2025.You can stream both Bao & Turning Red on Disney+ now!

In today's episode, I'm joined by Weronika Tofilska. Weronika is a Polish Director & Screenwriter based in London. Following studies at the Krzysztof Kieślowski Film School in Poland before later graduating from the National Film and Television School in England, she's gone on to direct the hit Netflix miniseries Baby Reindeer this year. She was also recently nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for her work on the series' fourth episode. Weronika also worked as co-writer alongside Rose Glass on the romantic thriller, Love Lies Bleeding, starring Kristen Stewart.We chat about her studies both in Poland and the UK, her creative process when directing and the differences when working as a co-writer on a feature film, and much more!You can find more info about her work on Weronika's website hereFollow Reel Girls Club on Instagram hereThanks for listening!

In today's episode, I'm joined by Desiree Akhavan. Desiree is an Iranian-American Director & Writer.You may have heard of Desiree from her award-winning film The Miseducation of Cameron Post starring Chloe Moretz or her critcally acclaimed Channel 4 TV series, The Bisexual - where Desiree explores identity & the queer experience.In this episode, we talk about how her love for playwriting put her on a path towards a career in filmmaking, how music is inspiring her latest project, how she's finding her voice, what inspired her upcoming book 'You're Embarrassing Yourself: Stories of Love, Lust & Movies' & much more.To pre-order Desiree's new book head to this link:You're Embarrassing Yourself by Desiree Akhavan: 9780399588501 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: BooksPraise for the memoir: 'I laughed, I cried and then I laughed again' LENA DUNHAM'The film-maker's memoir is a smart, funny, painfully honest account of a 'loser' finding success.' THE GUARDIANGIVEAWAY!I'll be giving away one copy of Desiree's new book so follow @reelgirlsclub on Instagram to be in with a chance of winning!Disclaimer: this episode contains some swearing and some sound issues, but overall very wholesome and inspiring content!

In today's brand new 1ST episode of season 3 of the podcast, I'm joined by Ninna Pálmadóttir.Ninna, from Iceland, is a Film Director & Writer. Her filmography includes short films Paper Boy, which was the winner of the Edda Award for Best Short Film in 2020, & All Dogs Die. Her debut feature film Solitude, premiered at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival. Solitude is a multilayered and heartfelt story about an old farmer who has to relocate to the city and forms a bond with his local paper boy and neighbor.In this episode, we chat about Ninna's formative years in Iceland, studying at TISCH in NYU and how she came to direct her first feature and much more!For more info check out Ninna's IMDb HERE!

In this BONUS episode, I'm joined by .Catherine Hardwicke! Catherine is an American Screenwriter, Director & Production designer, most famously known for having directed Thirteen & Twilight!I feel very lucky and grateful to have interviewed her, even if it was only for 15 minutes! In this short but sweet conversation, Catherine tells me what inspired her to make Thirteen, how she brought her own creative vision toTwilight, what it was like having imposter syndrome when working on Vanilla Sky as a production designer for Tom Cruise plus some advice for aspiring filmmakers.I've never really interviewed someone so quickly before, in such a rapid-fire style, but I really hope you enjoy it and find the conversation inspiring and helpful.PS. At the 11.34/35 time mark, Catherine showed me some of her story boarding/photographs for future film projects, incase there's any confusion to what we're referring to! I also think I may ask the same (ish) question twice as I'm clearly quite excited and nervous sorry!