How did you get into making movies?
I grew up in LA and wanted to be an actress. I thought that's what girls did in movies. I finally started taking photos, then making short films, when I was 17 after an inspirational trip to Rome. I went [to Rome] to be an actress. An agent who represented Nastassja Kinski brought me there. I watched her and thought she was a star. My personality type liked looking instead of being looked at.
How do you do what you do? Describe your process.
I love preparation. Research is one of my favorite things about making a film. Researching the characters, the location design, the look for a film, everything about it. I come really prepared, then try to stay in focus and free to let anything happen once I start filming. I only work with producers that can shield me from the slings and arrows. Not ones that fling them in my direction.
How many people are involved in the films you make?
On small things, just a few [people are involved], but on a movie you have to give direction to over a hundred people. I rely heavily on the talent of others. I highly encourage your best actions. If directing was just telling people what to do, I wouldn't be a director; I'd be a dictator.
What do you like/dislike most about your job?
I dislike the long hours I spend away from my husband, home, animals, garden and playing. But I'm glad to be "on" and work hard, then have time off.
What was high school like? Were you into filmmaking?
I feel like I became a different person in every grade. I started as a straight-A student and by the eleventh grade I had dropped out. I did eventually enroll myself back into school for college and this time I was ready to learn. I am now constantly trying to educate myself. It gives me more [experience and knowledge] to pull from everything in life. I always loved films and found them a great escape from everything.
What other kinds of things do you do? What else would you like to try?
I cook, I read, I do yoga, I garden, I fix up my LA and New York homes. I'm also really crafty. I also like to relax and travel. I'll try almost anything once.
Where can we find out more about your work?
You can find out more about "Crossroads" by checking out the production notes here.
