My Fiona: Meet Kelly Walker
My Fiona promises to be a movie that will have everyone talking. It is a beautiful story of loss, pain and bonding that screams OSCAR 2022!
TVGrapevine recently talked to director Kelly Walker about the movie. Check it our below.
Tell me a bit about yourself and career.
I grew up in Brisbane, Australia, and moved to Los Angeles after school to chase my Hollywood dream, which in no way turned out the way I anticipated. And I mean that in the best possible way. I thought I would be an actress first, filmmaker second, but I can’t stay away from my obsession with behind the camera no matter what I do. I’ve been a video editor for about fifteen years and in the last six or so years writing and directing took priority, and the acting game took a back seat.
How would you describe My Fiona?
I love this quote from a review – “My Fiona will break your heart and put it back together again.” I think that sums it up perfectly!
In what ways do you relate to any of the characters?
There’s a little bit of me in all three women. I relate to Jane’s search for identity, how reactionary she can be, and her fierce love for her friends. Gemma’s strive for vulnerability and Fiona’s need to put others before herself and sometimes to her detriment.
What was it like working with such an amazing cast?
I got SO LUCKY! It was so important to me to cast emotionally intelligent actors. I knew if our actors understood and empathized with the characters’ flaws, they would do the story justice. Also, I was friends or had previously worked with about 80% of the cast, and I think that helped create a very safe space on set that was mutually respectful and, at the same time, just a bunch of friends hanging out and making stuff.
What were some challenges of directing the movie?
Ohhhh, the usuals. Not enough time, not big enough budget… Although, I tend to believe that with constraints comes creative magic. I was lucky that my producers did their best to shield me from the big dramas so that I could focus on the day’s work. If the sky was falling, I didn’t know about it, and that’s a testament to great producing. Go team!
What are some of your favorite memories from working on set?
You know, for a drama piece, the set was very light-hearted, warm, and a ton of fun. Elohim Nycalove (Bailey), brought joy and levity to the behind the scenes. If he wasn’t playing nerf guns with Ryan Garcia (Alec), he was doing impersonations and cartwheels with Jeanette (Jane) or making the crew giggle with hilarious stories. Also, my Mom flew in from Australia to help out on set. There was something so special about being in a stressful moment and looking over and seeing my Mom. There’s nothing like a Mom hug on a heavy day, and I so appreciated that she was right there.
What else are you working on?
I’m really into writing biopics at the moment. I also have a couple of books I’m hoping to adapt. As long as there are messy characters, female empowerment, relationship-driven stories, and grounded humor, I’m in!
Tell me a fun fact about yourself.
I’m left-handed, I despise ketchup, and I’m a little bit/ a lotta bit psychic.
What are you watching on TV these days?
I am on a doc kick at the moment. I can’t get enough! This week’s recommendations are Ahead Of The Curve, The WeWork Doc, and Some Kind Of Heaven.
Anything else you want to share?
Follow @myfionafilm for updates and screenings!
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