Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Use Constraints to Your Advantage: Jessie emphasizes the importance of adapting to challenges in independent filmmaking, turning setbacks into creative opportunities.
- Tonal Shifts Reflect Real Life: She explores the unpredictability of life through storytelling, mixing genres to mimic sudden shifts in reality.
- Teamwork and Trust: Jessie credits her dedicated team for the film's success, highlighting the importance of building a supportive and collaborative environment.
Jessie Komitor is making waves with her directorial debut, Chasing the Party, at this year's HollyShorts Film Festival.
The film, a raw exploration of girlhood and identity, features a talented cast including Lucia Ryan and Kitana Turnbull, with cinematography by Zach Kuperstein and production by notable figures like Sam Rockwell and Mark Berger.
Jessie, a Tisch School alumna, draws from her personal experiences in New York's early 2000s party scene, capturing the bittersweet transition from youth to adulthood.
Q&A Interview
What inspired you to tell this story now?
Chasing the Party is based on my personal experience as a young suburban kid drawn to the Lower East Side's underground party scene. It was a unique moment in New York, pre-Instagram, when indie sleaze was at its peak. This story is about the exchange of childhood fantasies for the realities of adulthood.
Did anything unexpected change your perspective during production?
Switching to handheld for the kitchen scene was transformative. Working closely with my cinematographer, Zach Kuperstein, we captured a raw moment with the character Melissa. It was gut-wrenching and impactful, created spontaneously on set.
What element of the film feels most personal to you?
Growing up as a dancer, I view the world through that lens. The dance sequence, especially when the dancers walk into the wall, reflects my humor and perspective as an outsider.
"This film is about the female experience... for the girls that don’t even get to look him in the eye because they were scared."
What was a significant challenge during the editing process?
With my editor Julian Joslin, I made tough cuts to maintain the film's energy, crucial for the slow pace of the second half. It's the classic kill your darlings scenario.
What message do you hope audiences take from the film?
This film speaks to the female experience and the complexities of feeling preyed upon. It's for those who couldn't confront their fears due to manipulation or shock.
"At the core of all my work is a desire to bring the inside out."
How has this project influenced your future storytelling?
I’m interested in mixing genres; life's unpredictability fascinates me. This film's tonal shift reflects that, and I plan to continue exploring such storytelling methods.
What resources were invaluable during production?
My team was my greatest resource. From my editor and DP to my AD and choreographer, each person brought creativity and support, crucial for the film’s success.
"Build a team you trust and rely on them."
What does being selected for HollyShorts mean to you?
Being at HollyShorts is incredibly validating. It’s a dream to share this film with audiences at such a prestigious festival, especially at the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Where is "Chasing the Party" headed next?
We’re excited to continue on the festival circuit with SXSW Sydney. The film serves as a proof of concept for a feature, blending tones of Romy and Michele with Trainspotting.
Cast and Crew
- Joe Swanberg, Staten: A pioneer of the mumblecore movement with films like "Drinking Buddies."
- Zachary Spicer, Producer: CEO of Pigasus Pictures and founder of Pigasus Institute.
For more on Chasing the Party, visit IMDb.
