How did you discover your passion for film-making?
At the age of 12, I enjoyed writing short stories and at 16, while studying at Dawson College, I realized how my ideas could take form on screen and provoque emotions in people when I took video editing and script writing classes.
What kind of movies do you like creating?
Trailer and suspens to keep people on the edge of their seats. It is pretty much reflected in my productions “Battle of Souls” and “While the Village Sleeps”.
What motivated you through tough times and rejection?
I applied to Concordia University’s film production program four times in a row and was not accepted, but kept working on film making projects and produced “Battle of Souls” which was warmly applauded by the public. I took a chance and submitted it to the New York Independent International Film and Video Festival in 2008 and it was chosen as the best Feature Film, all categories. I also ended up graduating with a Spanish major baccalaureate and launched my own company Blue Infinity Films. I still have my full time job, invest in my projects and work hard to get where I want to get.
My first nomination increased my motivaion for my, now kind of ligitimized, passion. It also made me realize that if one person decides you do not fit in a program or in an industry, it’s not the end of the world. One person’s opinion certainly does not reflect the opinion of the public and should never kill your dreams.
What was your reaction when you heard about your first nomination?
I still remember when they called me to announce the nomination of “Battle of Souls” for Best Feature Film at the New York Independent Film & Video Festival in 2008. I couldn’t believe it, I thought it was a joke at first and got so distracted, I almost got hit by a car, but I was so proud, I ended up framing the letter and hanging it right next to Concordia’s refusal letter.
What do you think differenciates your work and makes your productions stand out?
My ability to choose the right actors for the right roles, my force with visual aspects and my determination had positive impacts which led to nominations, 1st place prizes and got me to Hollywood and Cannes.
How did you feel in Hollywood and Cannes?
It felt unreal. I was a couple of feets away from Steven Spielberg, Nicole Kidman, Emma Watson, Marion Cotillard and many other celebrities. All the glam made my eyes all sparkly at the beginning, but I quickly realized I shouldn’t get distracted and seize the opportunity to network and learn.
How would you compare Hollywood to Cannes?
Hollywood was very impressive, glamourous and intimidating. On the other hand, Cannes had more networking oportunities and contacts with investors.
Who do you go with to those festivals?
I attend those events alone or with actors or contributors of the nominated project.
How do you choose your actors?
I picture them as I write the scenario and pick the closest people to that image. Also, there has to be a certain harmony between friends and couples. I mean they have to look like they would get along in real life.
Who dressed the actors ? A dresser who studied in Fashion following a certain budget, personnalities of the characters and the established color palette. Clothes color is very important as it can cause hard to correct reflects or distorsions on camera.
What was the impact of your nominations and wins on your career?
It increased my credibility and brought more people to trust and collaborate with me to build their portfolios.
What are your upcoming projects?
15 min de fama, a 30 minutes interview series featuring people with outstanding accomplishements within the latin community. The show will be airing as of today Saturday February 15th, 2014, at 8:15PM on ICI , a new canadian channel (Videotron: 16 & 616 HD, Bell Fibe: 216 & 1216 HD).
I am also currently working on my next short film “Will of Fortune” that is being filmed in New York.
Lynch Series. I was approached by investors to develop a horror series based on my movie “While the Village Sleeps”.
How would you describe your style? Provocative and mysterious.
Who is your style icon? Blake Lively because she is sophisticated and chic while keeping it Young and vibrant.
Who is your favourite designer? Alexander McQueen and Francois Beauregard for their originality.
What is fashion for you? The ability to express ourselves and our personnalities through our outfits.
Link to Chloe’s awards and recognitions.
