Cannes Short Film Corner - Displaced
Displaced follows the struggle of a young Sudanese woman as she finds the courage to speak up about the violent sexual abuse she suffered while living in a conflict zone.
Interview with Writer/Director/Producer Genna Chanelle Hayes
Watch Displaced here:
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
There are millions of women being violently sexually abused around the world. The purpose of this film is to give voice to the many women suffering around the world, and highlight the continued use of rape as a weapon of war and an act of genocide.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
There are over 65 million people currently displaced globally. These are our work colleagues, our classmates, our neighbours. It's important to have an understanding of the reasons driving the refugee crisis, and it's important to be aware of the difficulties these people face.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?
This was originally going to be a doco, but developed into what you see today.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
We've enjoyed a wonderful response in Cannes this year. We also held a Womens Refugee Awareness event in Sydney a month ago, and it was very well received.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
I hope people discover this film and that it can encourage more discussion surrounding these issues.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
We are open to anyone and everyone. We are currently working on our upcoming feature film Akoni, which also deals with the refugee crisis.
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
I would like people to walk away with a more positive perception of refugees. I'd like more discussion to be had about the violent sexual abuse of women, and the fact that the rape of countless women is being used as a method of ethnic cleansing. I'd like societies to become increasing compassionate, empathic and understanding to those displaced and seeking refuge.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
I think there are many. But I guess...How do we create a world where women live free from fear and exist as equals, where their bodies are respected as being the divine temples that they are? Where young girls are seen as equally important and worthy as young men?
Would you like to add anything else?
Thank you for being interested. And thank you to anyone and everyone who shares this message. And thank you to the amazing team that came together to create DISPLACED.
What are the key creatives developing or working on now?
Genna Chanelle Hayes is in production for her debut feature film, Akoni. Andy Ryan is starring in Love Child and Janet King.
Interview: May 2017
_________________________________________________________________________________
We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series and music video. If you have just made a film - we'd love to hear from you. Or if you know a filmmaker - can you recommend us? More info: Carmela
_________________________________________________________________________________
Displaced
Length: 10 minutes
Director: Genna Chanelle Hayes
Producer: Genna Chanelle Hayes
Writer: Genna Chanelle Hayes
About the writer, director and producer:
Genna Chanelle Hayes is a dedicated storyteller with a focus on universal human rights.
She works both in front of and behind the camera, as an actress, writer, director and producer.
A passionate advocate of human rights, Genna also works with local non-profit organisations to catalyse positive change within the global community.
Key cast: Andy Ryan, Nyawuda Chuol, Genna Chanelle Hayes, kit esuruoso, moreblessing mature, Rashidi Edward
Social media handles: onelovefilmsbondi, Akoni, gennachanelle,
Facebook: onelovefilmsbondi
Twitter: onelovebondi
Instagram: onelovefilmsbondi
Other: onelovefilms.org
Funders: SoundFirm, rumble studios, ALHR, SSI