Rhode Island International Film Festival - Penitence
A man recently released from prison confronts the dying woman he believes set him on the path to ruin.
Interview with Writer/Director Carol Conley
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Congratulations! Why did you make your film?
I'm a 12-year cancer survivor. Every year I challenge myself to try something I've never done before, either physically or creatively. As someone who has worked on the business end of filmmaking for many years, writing and directing my own piece has definitely been on my "bucket list".
Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?
It's a very dark, topical film with an unusual twist. it will make you think.
How do personal and universal themes work in your film?
Although it seems pretty straightforward, there are many layers once you examine it. The audience's reaction will be based on their own personal experiences with the themes of the film.
How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development and production?
I wrote the piece about 10 years ago but never was able to solidify it until I met the venerable actress, Marlyn Mason, I wanted for my lead. Once I had her in mind as the character Maggie, it all fell into place.
What type of feedback have you received so far?
Straight men, in particular, feel very uncomfortable watching it. The women I'm shown it to have generally found it very powerful.
Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?
Yes, I was surprised at the reaction by the men who have seen it.
What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?
I think it deals with an important subject matter and want to encourage discussions regarding the theme.
Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?
My biggest goal at the moment is getting it into additional film festivals. I think it could be an interesting addition to unconventional festivals.
What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?
Like I mentioned earlier, I'd really like to see it encourage discourse. Also, the writer/director/executive producer (myself) and the two female leads are all women over 60. We grew up in an era, unlike today, where it wasn't unusual to keep dirty little secrets. This film brings that into play, showing how the secrets of the past affect... and infect... the male lead.
What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?
Was Bobby there to hurt Maggie or help her? Did he act out of love or hate? Or both?
Would you like to add anything else?
I appreciate the opportunity to talk about this film, which has been a true passion project for me. I was able to exorcise some of my own personal demons through the process.
What are the key creatives developing or working on now?
I'm not currently working on anything else right now, but if the right property comes along, I'd like to direct again.
Interview: August 2016
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PENITENCE
A man recently released from prison confronts the dying woman he believes set him on the path to ruin.
Length: 11:45 minutes
Director: Carol Conley
Producer: Tom DeNucci, Jon Schermerhorn, Orlando Santos (Executive Producer), Carol Conley (Executive Producer)
Writer: Carol Conley
About the writer, director and producer:
Carol Conley (writer/director/executive producer) has worked in the business end of the film industry since surviving cancer 12 years ago. At the age of 60, this is her first film.
Tom DeNucci and Jon Schermerhorn are associated with Woodhaven Production Company. They are currently developing a horror script entitled ANDERS MANOR.
Orlando Santos is the writer/director/executive producer of CHANGE OF PLANS: GOD'S WAY, a successful Christian film. He is currently working on his next faith-based film.
Key cast: Maryln Mason, Don Marton, Ellen Becker-Gray
Looking for (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists):
Film Festival Directors
Funders: Go Fund Me campaign, Bea Wright (Associate Producer)
Made in association with: Woodhaven Production Co.
Release date: August 10, 2016
Where can I watch it in the next month?
PENITENCE will screen tonight at the Rhode Island International Film Festival and the weekend of October 21-23, 2016 at the 401 Film Festival, also in Rhode Island.