STARS AND SUNS Written and Directed By Sarah Soquel Morhaim

Indie Express: Tell us about your film?

Sarah: It’s the story of a teenage girl and her younger brother, both fantasizing about escape. It’s a drama with bits of humor and magical realism.

IE: How did you come up with the idea for the film?

S: The story grew from some visuals that were floating around my head.

IE: How did you find your cast? 

S: LA Casting and Breakdown Express offer great, free casting services. I also ended up casting a friend in one role.

IE: How long did the film take?  (From conception to final edit)

S: About a year.

IE: What was the most difficult part of the shoot for you?

S: Remembering to slow down once the shot is setup and camera is actually rolling.

IE: Tell us about the films festival experience so far?

S: It’s been great to see the film with audiences. It’s what has truly made the film feel finished. Also it’s fun to share camaraderie with fellow filmmakers.

What are you most looking forward to at the festival?

S: I’d like to meet Dennis Hopper.

IE: What films or filmmakers inspire you?

S: Heat, Rushmore, Apocalypse Now, La Notte, Kings and Queen, Klute, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Together, Y Tu Mama Tambien, Amelie, The Beat that my Heart Skipped, The Son, Darling, Boys don’t Cry, To Kill a Mockingbird, Code Unknown, Sexy Beast, and many more. 

IE: What made you decide to become a filmmaker?

S: I love the experience of seeing films and telling stories. It’s my favorite kind of art.

 IE: What is next for you?

S: I’m finishing a feature script, taking photographs, and making some music videos.   

IE: What is next for the film?

S: Palm Springs International Festival of Shorts and Philadelphia Independent Film Festival. Hopefully it will play at other festivals through the year, then get distributed online in some way.

IE: If asked to give one piece of advice to a new filmmaker making their first short film… What would it be?

S: This is my first film, so I’m a new filmmaker myself, but I would say tenacity is key. Set your shoot dates, work like crazy, and it will come together. And have fun.