Cannes Short Film Corner - Crimson Love
A New York City escort conducts business as usual at an in-call apartment. There’s an eerie sense of familiarity with the arrival of a mysterious man who she believes to be a client. His ability to disarm her makes her uncomfortable at first, but by the end of the night she realizes who he is.
Interview with Writer/Director Tanya Muir
Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
Thank you! This was a story I wanted to tell for a long time and I knew I wanted to tell it in a big-hearted way. In 2016 I had a stirring in my spirit to do something about it. In a sense, I felt a responsibility to make this film.
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
I think if you enjoy stories about transformation, you’ll get that from Crimson Love.
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
It’s the heart and soul of it. Personal because I drew from my own experiences to create the protagonist, which was not the easiest thing to do. Universal because it deals with the human soul and Divine Love.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?
Attempting to portray a human Jesus isn’t something I took lightly. I had to be very delicate with writing for Him so there was a lot of back and forth, constant referencing to the scriptures and prayer. In fact when it came to writing His character I wouldn’t touch the script unless there was a moment of clarity, out of respect. Those moments were incredible and it made writing the script deeply satisfying. Creating a character centered around events that happened in my life was also challenging to say the least but I was able to create an inner world for her that made her feel distant enough.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
I’ve been encouraged by it. Several people here in Cannes and back home have different interpretations of the film, which is the best reaction to me. Male, female, young, old…everyone is able to take something different from it. Some people connect more to the protagonist and her sadness, even men! Others love Jesus’ character even before realizing who he is, they recognize a special chemistry between Him and Mariah. It’s the universal need for love that everyone has connected with. For some they see it as romantic, others, the need to love yourself but for most it’s about redemption and the love of God.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
I would say I’m pleasantly surprised. Since this was my first film, I didn’t know what to expect. It’s such an odd thing to watch people watch your film, especially one so personal. I’m glad that people are getting something positive from it.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
I hope to diversify the Christian voice in cinema, as well as pique the interest of like-minded artists for future collaborations.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
All of the above with special emphasis on film festival directors, journalists and distributors.
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
The only reaction I hope for is discussion about the film that is inquisitive and compassionate. People will come to their own conclusions.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
How would Jesus relate to individuals of the world in 2017?
Would you like to add anything else?
Thank you for featuring Crimson Love on wearemovingstories.com
What are the key creatives developing or working on now?
Stay tuned for other shorts and a feature in the near future.
Interview: June 2017
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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
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Crimson Love
A New York City escort conducts business as usual at an in-call apartment. There’s an eerie sense of familiarity with the arrival of a mysterious man who she believes to be a client. His ability to disarm her makes her uncomfortable at first, but by the end of the night she realizes who he is.
Length: 14:30
Director: Tanya Muir
Producer: LoJ Films
Writer: Tanya Muir
About the writer, director and producer:
Tanya Muir is an award-winning actor, writer and filmmaker based in Brooklyn, NY. "Crimson Love" is Tanya’s directorial debut as well as the debut project of LoJ Films, Tanya’s new creative endeavor. LoJ Films is a collaborative development production collective in its infancy. Its purpose is to create raw, inspiring projects that tap into the soul and spirit of the human condition. Ultimately, it’s to spread the message of Love.
Key cast:
Anthony Bisciello
Sean Borderes
Tanya Muir
Looking for (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists):
Film creatives and directors
Social media handles:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Crimsonlovemovie
Instagram: @crimsonlovemovie
Where can I see it in the next month? Narrow Way Film Festival hosted by the University of Pennsylvania on July 14th