Exclusive interview with Anastasiya Sergienya – Filmmaker
NY Glam: How long have you been making films and videos?
I have been making videos for about 7 years, but I made my first film last year.
NY Glam: What film was your directorial debut?
My directorial debut is Soyka.
NY Glam: What is your recent film about?
“Soyka” is a short indie film based on a true-story. It shows a day in the life of a young woman from Belarus living in NY. The viewer follows her on the way to work, and on the way home from work. The story details the young woman’s vision of having a better life. While the film is a story for one person, it is truly a story for millions of people who have a similar experience which is what makes it so enlightening and repetitive. The film highlights the difficulties immigrants face, issues of self-realization, loneliness, happiness and hope.
NY Glam: How did you go about casting for the film?
I found the main actress myself. She is very popular in Russia. I just emailed her, and the rest of cast I found via Backstage.
NY Glam: What was the most important lesson you had to learn that has had a positive effect on your film? How did that lesson happen?
I believe everything that happens, is all for the best. During pre-production I lost my AD and DP. That was very stressful for me. But the people who came to their place were amazing. Honesty, I can’t imagine how I would make my film without them.
NY Glam: What role have film festivals played in your life so far?
My short film is on a festival running right now, and I think it’s going pretty well for the first time as director.
Of course, I wish personally to go to film festivals, to meet people, talk with them about my new projects.., but it is what it is. I think that successful festival run can be good for your resume and portfolio.
NY Glam: Is it harder to get started or to keep going? What was the particular thing that you had to conquer to do either?
For me it is much harder to start. You need to gather yourself, get rid of fear and start working.
NY Glam: How has your style evolved?
I think I am still developing my style. And honestly, I think I should make some more movies to see what my style is.
NY Glam: What has been your personal key to success?
Hard work.
NY Glam: What are you thinking about doing next?
I am working on a feature script.
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