Get to Know Alyix, and Her Journey More in This Exclusive Interview
What Got You Into Filmmaking?
As a kid I always had a creative mind, and would write a lot, but one of the most notable memories that got me into filmmaking is when I first watched Jaws as a child. I sat there fascinated and thought, how did they do that? The Avengers came out and I thought the same thing, and the thought of I want to do that. I started watching a lot of behind the scenes, and when I finally got my hands on a camera, it just took over. All the creative things I love in one.
You mention you wrote a lot, and continue to, how do you get inspiration for your stories?
I get inspiration from a lot of things around me. I grew up hearing a lot of stories about my family, which has gone into some of my scripts. I'm also interested in a variety of things from folklore, history, ghosts, psychology, and the list continues. So I pull from elements that intrigue me. Even a song lyric, or a line from a movie or show could spark an idea. I actually keep a notes on my phone of all the ideas that come to me, and always carry a pen and little notebook. I hate when an idea comes and I lose it.
Do You Have a Signature Film Style?
I can't say I have a signature style. I do try to do as much practical effects as I can. This comes from my FX background, and love for classic films. A lot of what I do isn't very saturated colour. I love pick up shots, and pre-planned shots.
What is One Thing About Your Films That Audiences May Not Know?
With a lot of my characters, thought goes into the names. The underlying meaning of the names can relate to the characters a lot of the times.
Speaking of Your Characters, How do You Work With Actors to Get the Best Performance?
Trust. Trust that you know your characters, and trust your actors. I love hearing actors thoughts on what their character would do. We don't always agree, but it helps grow the character even more. On Roan Creek, I had an amazing cast, and they truly brought these characters to life, and had the freedom to do as such.
Do You Ever Step in Front of the Camera?
I don't that often. I do have a theatre background, and I love and appreciate the craft, but I can get very nervous in front of the camera.
How Do You Prepare For Set?
A lot of paperwork. Weather that is on my own sets, or preparing to be on someone else's. It's a sea of papers and emails.
What Are Some of the Biggest Challenges You've Faced on Projects?
That is a loaded question. No set ever goes smooth. I think the most challenges I've faced were on Roan Creek. Pre, post, and shooting all brought challenges. Communication, extreme heat, having to change plans last minute, corrupted files. I learned a lot from that set that I take with me to my future projects.
Where Would You Like to be in the Future?
My ultimate goal is to have a home base and be able to travel to work. To be able to support independent filmmakers, and grow as a company. I'd love myself to do a film with Disney, or Universal. I grew up watching them, and am 100% a Disney adult.
Lastly, What Advice Do You Have for Other Aspiring Filmmakers?
Always learn from what's around you, whether that is school or hands on experience. Be open to feedback, it could make your project even better. Don't let set backs knock you down. Most importantly, stay true to who you are. Everyone has a story to tell, or a way to tell it, and you have to believe in yourself. You will always have someone who says you can't do something, I have myself, but if you believe in yourself, you can go far.