Lorelei Lanford is a Film Director, who currently directing the horror feature film “Dead of Night” and has signed a deal that will have her direct 5 others films in the next 2 years.
Lorelei Lanford was recently interviewed by Famo Celebrity Magazine and below is the Q&A session we had with her.
What inspired you to become a Film Director?
My father was in the film industry, so I have been in the milieu my whole life. I started out as an actress but did not think I was really good at it. I found out that, I enjoyed more the creating part of filmmaking.
Can you tell us about your journey from Dancing into Filmmaking?
(Laughing) My whole family was in the entertainment business. As soon as I could walk and talk, I was learning operettas from my grandmother who performed at the Royal Theatre of Belgium. When I was 10, I moved to Tahiti. I Absolutely fell in love with the culture. I danced for many years all over the world. But that did not stop me from working in the film industry. Dancing was a hobby that I still enjoy today.
What’s your Process for Selecting Scripts or developing Original Ideas?
All day long I have new ideas that keep popping in my head. That’s why I keep a paper and a pen with me at all time.
I like to have the base of the script done and then give it to my scriptwriters. I have found that it is very hard for me to work on something that I have not written.
What’s your Approach to Choreographing scenes—do you prefer to plan everything in advance or allow for improvisation?
There is rarely improvisation in filmmaking. I do have a storyboard that I follow.
How do you ensure Fluidity?
The French Film Director Rene Clair once said “We have done shooting, now let’s make a movie”. Most of the magic is done in the Editing.
As a Director, what Techniques do you use to get the Best Performances out of your Cast?
We need to have the same understanding of the character. I am there to pull out the best out of the actor. And that is done through discussing the scene and guiding the actor.
Have you ever faced Challenges with an Actor?
In filmmaking, there is not a single day that is not a challenge. May it be with an actor, the weather not cooperating, A scene that worked in your head but does not when it’s time to execute it.
What’s your favorite part of the Filmmaking process as a Director?
Filming! We work long hours and it can be very stressful but that is when I have the most fun. I like to see the characters come to life.
According to your point of view, how has the Film Industry evolved over the years?
Filmmaking has greatly advanced. Not always for the best. I feel that Hollywood is out of ideas. It is time to showcase Independent filmmakers who come with fresh ideas.
I do watch a lot of classic films from the 30s to early 60s. I like that those films had stories. Sadly now Special Effects are more important than story telling. Time to come back to the basics.
If you could direct any genre or type of Film that you haven’t yet, what would it be?
A Film Noir.
