How did your journey from actress to director begin?
I was invited to direct one of my friend’s creations, and I’m glad I said yes.
What inspired you to step behind the camera?
To be honest, back in Brazil and here in California, I had a tendency to hear the same kind of feedback about my acting from directors I worked with: “Great job, Gica, but you do have a director’s vein, you know? It could be fun, you should try directing”.
At first this felt like an insult to hear that as an actress; like “why are you telling me to switch careers? Did I do something wrong?”. Once I finally tried directing, it became an invitation to be one of them.
Can you share what “The Duet” is about in a few words?
“The Duet is a wearying symphony between oneself and the battle within” is how Kristina Perez, our main actress and creator of “The Duet” describes the piece. “Every person who has battled with self doubt, fear, anxiety or depression can relate to this constant battle. It’s the duet that is within us all.”
How did your acting background influence your directing style?
It’s great to be able to tell your actors what you wished you’ve heard from your directors in the past. A director needs to be an inspiration to the actors; a leader that the crew and cast trusts to guide them through a story. Directors, just like actors, need to be good listeners on set.
What was the biggest challenge you faced while directing your first film?
Since I started, I’ve never directed a screenplay I wrote myself. And it was all about learning what to provide and how to communicate with the creators to make sure their vision is turning into reality like they dreamt about it. That’s a challenge I constantly face as a director who is involved in pre-production, shooting and post-production.
How did it feel to see “The Duet” recognized at international festivals?
It’s rewarding to know the story is reaching the public. A recent screening was the annual “Wildgarden Film Festival” where “the Duet” was part of the official bouquet. Kristina and I were able to attend the event with some friends. It was a great experience where we met incredible filmmakers. Now we are excited for our European festival run that is coming up for “The Duet”!
Do you prefer being in front of the camera or behind it?
I love directing, I’m so grateful for discovering another path within the art of filmmaking, although I still have fun with my acting career. “Born by Ash” and “Simple Thieves” are film titles I acted as a lead and are now in post-production. Soon, out there in the world.
So the acting is still there, but directing is so much fun too. They are just different positions in the art of filmmaking.
Which role taught you the most as an actress?
Well, since “Last Encore” I’ve been working with Micha quite a lot as an actress, and in “Born by Ash”, I played a blind ex-veteran. That was probably one of the most amazing challenges I faced as an actress. I felt like “Toph”, from the animated series “Avatar: The Last Airbender”.
Who are the directors that inspire your work the most?
Robert Eggers, Darren Aronofsky, Julia Ducournau, Luca Guadagnino, Halina Reijn and Jennifer Kent are personal inspirations.
What’s next for you after “The Duet”?
I’m currently working on a few new projects I’m directing: “Waistline” just finished shooting;
“Perspectives” and “Invisible Strings” are being pre-produced and, fingers crossed for a recent studio pitch I got invited to direct, going through coloring as we speak. You can check some of my film material here: https://www.gicapucca.com
