Dream and reality becomes blurred as a unique fashion model prepares for her runway debut.

Interview with Writer/Director Kevin Vu

Watch Splendona here:

Congratulations! Why did you make your film?

Why thank you! Splendona was conceived as my pre-thesis film for NYU. But it was also an idea I was passionate about as it explored a few personal themes (which I’ll discuss below). I don’t know if I had a "lightbulb moment" but naturally my heart is predisposed to dabble in something surreal and dreamlike. I was drawn to the incongruity of a woman who doesn’t quite conform to conventional notions of beauty and tries to navigate a world she cannot comprehend.

Imagine I’m a member of the audience. Why should I watch this film?

You should watch if you’re interested in exploring a heightened and dreamlike world that isn’t your own. And there’s a possibility you might see a bit of yourself in the lead character. Also, Alison Midstokke, who plays the lead, is a talented, lovely actress & model whose real-life story is just as fascinating if you care to give a read: www.alisonmidstokke.com

How do personal and universal themes work in your film?

I’ve always been drawn to characters who are misfits, specifically ones who yearn to be someone other than themselves. Usually, it’s driven by their desire for escapism or acceptance. Within the film, there are general universal themes which are drawn from my own personal experience – being misunderstood, loneliness, the inability to assimilate, to name a few. Of course, as a straight, cis-gendered, able-bodied male, I’ll never grasp what it must be like to experience life as a woman with body image concerns – especially in a culture that has unrealistic standards of appearance and perfection. But I certainly hope those themes resonate on a personal and emotional level for viewers as well.

How have the script and film evolved over the course of their development?

I remember the first draft of the script having an abstract, experimental narrative. It was during post-production and feedback from trusted friends and mentors did I realize we needed to lay down the rules of the world and have viewers connect to the story. That way, they wouldn’t be left scratching their heads. And I’m glad I listened cause afterwards, people were left scratching their heads, but in a good way!

What type of feedback have you received so far?

It’s been quite positive and seems to have lingered in people’s minds long after watching.

Has the feedback surprised or challenged your point of view?

I was pleasantly surprised how much viewers identified with the lead character as it sparked an interesting dialogue about representation, thematic elements, and the ambiguous ending. I always enjoy listening to other people’s interpretation.

What are you looking to achieve by having your film more visible on www.wearemovingstories.com?

To share with a larger audience and have an opportunity to connect with them.

Who do you need to come on board (producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists) to amplify this film’s message?

Any and all fanatical believers in the project. Come join us, we have jackets!

What type of impact and/or reception would you like this film to have?

I’ll openly and happily accept polarizing reactions.

What’s a key question that will help spark a debate or begin a conversation about this film?

I think I’ll leave that one to the audience.

Would you like to add anything else?

I hope the film makes your day a bit more interesting and you find it to be a unique experience! Also, I’m terrible at articulating answers, so thank you for your patience and kindness, We Are Moving Stories!

What other projects are the key creatives developing or working on now?

I’ll be directing a 20 minute short film in a few months called “Perfect As Cats” which follows a bizarre relationship between two sisters. I also have an experimental short called “Mata Laya Pata” which is currently making its festival rounds. Laura Valladao (cinematographer) recently shot an Oscar-nominated short “My Nephew Emmett” (2018), and she’s still out there making things look good. Lead actress Alison Midstokke is acting in a few feature films and has a very bright future ahead.

Interview: August 2018

We Are Moving Stories embraces new voices in drama, documentary, animation, TV, web series, music video, women's films, LGBTQIA+, POC, First Nations, scifi, supernatural, horror, world cinema. 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

Splendona

Dream and reality becomes blurred as a unique fashion model prepares for her runway debut.

Length: 10 minutes

Who is being interviewed for this article? Kevin Vu

Director: Kevin Vu

Producer: Artemis Shaw

Writer: Kevin Vu

About the writer, director and producer

KEVIN VU is a New York-based filmmaker from Southern California. He is completing his MFA at NYU Tisch School of the Arts and preparing to direct a new short film.

ARTEMIS SHAW is a film director, producer, and educator from New York City. She holds an MFA and MBA from NYU Tisch School of the Arts’ Grad Film and Stern Business School.

Key cast: Alison Midstokke, Angela Dee

Looking for: producers, sales agents, buyers, distributors, film festival directors, journalists and supporters for future projects

Facebook: Kevin Vu

Instagram: @kevvu

Other: www.kevinvufilm.com

Funders: Crowdfunding through Indiegogo and self-financed

Made in association with: New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts

Where can I watch it next and in the coming month? Well, as a matter of fact, you’re more than welcome to watch it now on Vimeo Staff Picks, and perhaps through other festivals in the next few months.