Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Real-life experiences and research enrich storytelling: Gerardo Coello Escalante emphasizes that using genuine experiences and research is vital to create resonant narratives, avoiding caricature and parody.
- Adaptability is the strength of independent filmmaking: The ability to rethink and refine every aspect of the film until the moment of shooting is a lesson Gerardo shares with fellow filmmakers.
- Collaborative environment fuels creativity: Trusting and admiring collaborators is crucial, as it influences everything that unfolds on set.
Gerardo Coello Escalante, alongside Amandine Thomas, brings Susana to this year's HollyShorts Film Festival. As creative partners under Thumper Films, they have a history of making impactful films, with previous works showcased at Sundance and other prominent festivals. Susana, their latest short, explores themes of tourism and gentrification in Mexico City. Their Director of Photography, Andrea Gavazzi, brings a unique visual style, while Bonnie Hellman leads the cast with her extensive acting experience.
Interview with Gerardo Coello Escalante
What drew you to make this film? Why this story, and why now?
Susana was inspired by elderly British tourists in Oaxaca and their contrast with younger tourists. As a Mexico City native, I've seen my hometown transform due to tourism. Our experiences in Mexico highlighted the impacts of tourism and gentrification, often recognized but with little self-reflection.
What surprised you most about the filmmaking process this time?
Scouting and securing locations ourselves made us realize how these themes directly affect people's lives. Locals were eager to participate. The actresses' first visit to Mexico added authenticity, blurring the lines between fiction and documentary.
"The script is a living document and is informed by any and all decisions you make in pre-production."
Was there a moment in the film that feels uniquely yours?
Yes, when the fourth wall breaks, bringing the subtext to the forefront. This moment, added during location scouting, synthesized our thesis on the film's themes.
What do you hope audiences take away from your film?
We avoid being prescriptive. We hope audiences take away whatever resonates with them.
"Working with collaborators you trust and admire is the most important part of filmmaking."
How has this film shaped the stories you want to tell next?
Susana, though fictional, is grounded in real experiences. We've learned that truthfulness avoids parody, and we're excited to continue exploring new stories in all genres.
What was the hardest creative decision you made while making this film?
Finding the right creative team was challenging. Trusting collaborators is crucial as it informs everything on set.
"Independent filmmaking is a space where an idea can be tried or considered without having to jump through any hoops."
What does it mean to you to have your film selected for HollyShorts?
It's incredibly meaningful. HollyShorts has hosted our previous films, and we're excited to share Susana with its audiences.
Main Cast and Crew
- Directors: Amandine Thomas & Gerardo Coello Escalante
- Director of Photography: Andrea Gavazzi
- Producers: Thumper Films, Violeta Films, Ataria Pictures, Asterion Pictures & Azzurra Films
- Starring: Bonnie Hellman, Christine Spang, Keenan Macwilliam, Parth Shah, Andrea Raggio & Richard Laite
Catch Susana as it continues its festival journey and looks forward to an online release.
