Improvisation plays a big role in your films. What does it give you that a conventional script can’t?
It allows honesty and truth to flow in a way that forces the actors to bring so much of themselves to the table. The magic of actors simply listening and being present creates an environment where overthinking and playing at emotions fall away, leaving something very raw. It’s integral to the process of exploring the truth.
The London jazz scene is an integral part of your film Next Life, which just debuted at the Tribeca Film Festival. What role does music play in your filmmaking?
It plays such a huge role in allowing the audience into the POV of the characters and sets the tone for the world. For Next Life, which is essentially a musical, for lack of a better term, was such a fun next landscape to explore. Music has and will always be a character in all my films. I love the process of putting music on the page and into my films and always listen to music while writing and shooting.
What do all great films have in common?
Truth. Humanity. Relatability.
What three films had the biggest influence on you becoming a filmmaker?
Breaking the Waves, Y tu Mama Tambien, A Place in the Sun.
What does good taste mean to you?
It says so much about a person's view of the world. It’s constantly evolving for me and changing. I love being inspired by new films and music and all art forms.
Quick Fire Five
Favourite restaurant: Barafina
Favourite holiday destination: Spain
Favourite musician: Peter Gabriel, Bjork, Depeche Mode, David Sylvian, Frank Ocean, Wild Beasts, Paul Simon, Cocteau Twins, Doves.
Prize possession: My daughter’s books
Biggest indulgence: Fortaleza Blanco Tequila
