The Interview is a bittersweet short film about a young female immigrant's struggle while chasing her dreams of a better life in a new country. Our short film explores themes of the immigrant experience, loneliness and self-acceptance.

Mission Statement

With this film, I hope to shed light on immigration issues that I’ve personally faced and amplify the voices of those from around the world who face significant barriers to survival, yet continue to fight on.

The Story

The Interview follows a young female immigrant who battles interviewers and her own self-doubt as she searches for a job after receiving her work authorization card. As an artist, I’m drawn to exploring different social and cultural challenges through my films. I aim to raise awareness about topics that haven’t been thoroughly covered in film. Most of my work is women-centric. I want to see more stories about women, made by women. As an immigrant myself, the subject of immigration is another theme I focus on in my films. My own challenges and experiences coming to this country play a major role in my artistry. I've spent almost ten years in the immigration process in the United States, and The Interview is a project that reflects the emotional rollercoaster I experienced during this time, and this is how I envision the film, as a rollercoaster; a feverish and turbulent journey which ends with the complete emotional transformation of my main character. It is my hope that this film will bring greater awareness to the hardships of the immigrant experience. I believe that anyone can relate to our story and feel for our main character, who had to leave her family, friends, and life behind, dreaming of a better life.

Why Our Project Is Unique

Projects like ours help to humanize the immigrant experience. They help educate the public about the challenges faced by immigrants and promote empathy and understanding. They challenge stereotypes and showcase the resilience and aspirations of people navigating new cultures while often facing significant obstacles. We hope our film can ultimately contribute to a more inclusive society.

Lived Experience & Personal Connection

The Interview is inspired by my own experiences. There still aren’t too many stories on screen covering the struggle that immigrants go through in this country. Through many encounters I’ve had with American citizens, I’ve learned that, for the most part, they are unaware of how the immigration system actually works and how inhumane it can be. In most cases people think that if you come here legally, obtaining a green card is as easy as getting your driver’s license. However, in reality, it is very different. I have met a lot of fellow immigrants since my arrival back in 2016. I can attest that most of the immigrants coming to this country only want to work and thus have a chance at a better life. I’ve witnessed the most hardworking and educated people treated horribly. They come here, leaving their families behind, not knowing anyone; they go through economic hardship, communication barriers and often become victims of prejudices. As my main character says, “It’s never enough for them. You’re never enough.” Directing this film is my attempt to shed a little light on the immigration issues that I personally faced and lift up the voices of those from around the world who are facing great barriers to survival, but who fight on nonetheless.

Our Vision

Our film is stylistically influenced by the French New Wave movement. French New Wave films featured existential themes, often stressing the individual and the acceptance of the absurdity of human existence. Filled with irony and sarcasm, the films also tend to reference other films. And just like French New Wave films, our main goal with The Interview is to challenge audiences and keep them from becoming complacent while watching.

Tone & Style

The visual style will be energetic, creative and cinematic. As it’s a mixed genre project containing elements of drama, comedy and sci-fi, there will be a lot of camera movement, snappy transitions and color contrasts. I received a great amount of inspiration from Noah Baumbach’s Frances Ha, which was directed with a free-and-easy vibe reminiscent of the French New Wave's most spirited films and which combines persuasive naturalism and a fantasy/fairytale. I see a lot of parallels to my story with Frances Ha, even in showing sad moments through comedic and awkward situations.

Why Our Project Seeks Additional Funds

While we were able to secure some funds toward this production, we're still missing a decent chunk of money in order to actually film it. We've been awarded the Illinois Arts Council Creative Projects Grant and The Puffin Foundation Grant which will help cover some expenses in our budget. Additionally, we are working with a local camera rental house that will support this production with equipment. The requested $10,000 will help cover the missing amount of funds in all categories of our budget such as cast and crew compensation, catering, locations, props, costumes, post-production and festivals fees.

By pledging to our project, you will not only support a dedicated and talented team of artists working in an industry that has faced many challenges in recent years, but you will also become part of a compelling narrative that resonates with diverse audiences and highlights the human experience. Your donation will help amplify the voices of those who are often unheard, ensuring that their stories are shared. This is vital for fostering understanding among all people and contributing to a better world. We believe that stories like ours are particularly important right now. With projects like The Interview, we can effect positive change in our communities, and it is your support that makes this possible.

Besides donations, there are other ways you can support our project:

Every donation means the world to our team!

Thank you so much for supporting our project!