Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Klimovski's storytelling dares to present queer characters as complex and unapologetic, challenging traditional narratives.
- Filming in unconventional locations like Chinatown added an authentic, dynamic energy to the film's atmosphere.
- The choice to shoot on 16mm film reflects a dedication to capturing the gritty essence of classic cinema.
Meet Klimovski, an innovative filmmaker whose latest short film, ATTAGIRL!, is set to premiere at this year's HollyShorts Film Festival. Known for creating bold narratives that feature complex queer characters, Klimovski has crafted a story that defies conventional storytelling. Featuring a stellar cast including Leyna Bloom, Amanda Lepore, Violet Chachki, Uglyworldwide, and Marcos Pedraza, ATTAGIRL! promises to be a cinematic experience that challenges norms and celebrates authenticity.
Q&A Interview
What inspired you to create "ATTAGIRL!"?
The drive behind ATTAGIRL! was this deep frustration with how queer characters get flattened into sanitized versions of ourselves. I wanted to create space for beautiful trans and queer women to be complicated and messy, without having to justify their existence. The timing felt urgent because our community is under siege right now, facing legislative attacks. The only response that feels honest is making art that's unapologetically loud and bold.
"When I look at what's happening, the only response that feels honest to me is making art that's unapologetically loud and bold."
What was surprising during the filmmaking process?
We were stealing shots all over Chinatown, and it became this spectacle. I worried that all these stares would shatter the sense of submersion, but then I realized it was amplifying what we were capturing. Our lead's magnetic presence was bending reality around her, and we leaned into that.
Is there a moment in the film that feels distinctly yours?
The entire world I've built where queer and trans characters exist outside conventional boxes. Siren isn't the tragic queer or the comic relief; she's a badass bookie. These characters feel aged-in and authentic, not performing queerness for straight audiences.
"Start with what you have and make it work for your vision, not against it."
What was the hardest creative decision you made?
Committing to shooting on 16mm film was the hardest. Every frame matters when you're burning through celluloid. It was challenging to convince everyone it was worth it, but it gives ATTAGIRL! that tangible quality akin to classic R-rated gems.
What do you hope audiences take away from your film?
I hope audiences walk out feeling they have permission to take up space and demand what they deserve. If you leave ready to challenge a system that's kept you small, then I've done my job.
"I want this film to remind people of that power."
What's next for you and ATTAGIRL!?
I'm developing my first feature, a crime thriller where queerness is just the fabric of the world. ATTAGIRL! has shown there's an appetite for this storytelling approach. I'll be hitting the festival circuit hard because that live audience energy is irreplaceable.
Cast & Crew
Experience ATTAGIRL! at HollyShorts and witness a narrative that pushes boundaries and redefines who gets to be powerful on screen.
