The short film Healing Plan directed by Samantha Joia deals with real nightmares. The sort Matilde Silva (the creator) still remembers. Yet, our protagonist, Luna, exists in a much advanced society than Matilde. As Luna’s journey peaks, she realizes her chase for approval is partially influenced by social media. And casts a shadow over her inner voice. She grasps that a person life’s canvas should a painting of choices, and not dictated by societal norms.
Samantha Joia paints the film Healing Plan as a heartfelt plea to take charge, embrace our individuality. And step to the beat of our unique life’s melody. The nightmares mirror the universal fears of a new generation grappling with identity and exploitation.
Logline: Plagued by insomnia, a Portuguese girl’s search for sleep through a radical therapy unearths unsettling memories of her move to America, blurring the line between dreams and reality.
indieactivity: Now that “Healing Plan” is complete, what are your feelings about the entire project?
Samantha Joia (SJ): I feel immense pride that we were able to gather a dedicated group of artists to breathe life into this story. I am profoundly grateful for the chance to collaborate with each and every one of them, especially with Matilde, who entrusted me with such a deeply personal experience. Healing Plan tackles the complex issue of assimilation in the United States, which is something I had grappled with growing up in an immigrant household. It felt extremely cathartic to work on a film that delved into such a defining aspect of my life.
Watch The Official Trailer for Healing Plan Directed by Samantha Joia
Casting is one of those steps in film production that you just have to get right. How did you get through it?
Samantha Joia (SJ): We were incredibly fortunate to have Matilde, our brilliant lead actress, who also co-wrote and conceptualized the project. Casting this film proved to be a unique challenge since we were seeking Portuguese-speaking actors. In addition to traditional avenues like Actors Access, we harnessed the power of social media within our networks to identify potential talent. Before finalizing any selections, we had each candidate read with Matilde and engaged in thorough discussions about their respective characters, ensuring a profound grasp of their roles.
Tell us a bit about the script. How did you get the idea?
Samantha Joia (SJ): Matilde had developed the original concept for the story based off of the recurring nightmares she experienced as a child after moving frequently. When I was brought on to direct, we worked closely together to polish a version of the script that would be feasible within our budget, but still captured the emotional potency of the original.
Who is “Healing Plan” for? Who do you think would enjoy it the most?
Samantha Joia (SJ): I believe this film will resonate with anyone who has experienced isolation when moving to a new place, irrespective of their age or cultural background.
How long did it take to shoot the entire film?
Samantha Joia (SJ): “Healing Plan” was filmed over the course of a single weekend, a feat made possible by discovering a versatile house that, through set design, could be transformed to replicate all the locations featured in our film.
How did you work with actors to get the best performances? Give us a typical on set direction at direction?
Samantha Joia (SJ): Prior to production, I conducted multiple rehearsals with our actors to establish a strong rapport and ensure they felt completely immersed in their respective roles. Given the emotionally demanding nature of Matilde’s character, I frequently held one-on-one rehearsals with her. During these sessions, we delved deep into character development and explored her personal connection to the script.
Healing Plan had talents working behind the scenes. How did you handle creative differences?
Samantha Joia (SJ): Throughout pre-production, we maintained extensive communication with our department heads to ensure a unified vision for the film’s visuals and atmosphere. If anyone presented a suggestion that deviated from my initial instincts, I welcomed a thorough discussion, always prioritizing what was ultimately best for the film.
What techniques do you use to ensure a film is cohesive and flows well throughout the story?
Samantha Joia (SJ): It boils down to having a well-defined understanding of your characters. In our film, Luna embarks on a journey through her own mindscape, revisiting past traumas. However, because we had a vividly clear sense of who Luna is as a person, the audience can readily connect with her and remain anchored throughout her transformative journey.
What shots and camera angles do you prefer for particular scenes and why?
Samantha Joia (SJ): I especially appreciate the handheld panning motions used in the sleepover scene. I believe it’s a brilliant technique for depicting Luna’s fragmented mental state in that particular moment.
What’s next for you? What are you working on right now?
Samantha Joia (SJ): I’ve recently completed shooting a science fiction short film centered around a synthetic human who ultimately destroys her creator. Excitingly, I’ve also been enlisted to direct two additional short films – one a dark comedy and the other a coming-of-age story.
How do you tackle projects with very tight timelines or challenging locations?
Samantha Joia (SJ): I make a conscious effort to engage in thorough planning, but I’ve come to realize that even the most meticulous planning cannot replace the importance of selecting capable department heads who truly grasp the vision. In the case of “Healing Plan,” I was incredibly fortunate to have a team that exemplified this understanding.
How has technology changed filmmaking and in what ways have you adopted new methods in your productions?
Samantha Joia (SJ): I came of age during the social media era, so I can’t attribute a significant shift in my personal approach to filmmaking due to it. That being said, I do count myself as fortunate to live in a time where there’s increasing opportunity for women and Latino creatives to step into the director’s chair and have their voices heard.
What tips would you give to aspiring filmmakers who are just starting their careers?
Samantha Joia (SJ): If you’re interested in directing, make sure to learn the ropes of each department. Knowing what they do will help you chat more easily with the crew. And consider taking acting classes too! It’ll give you a good feel for different acting styles and help you connect better with your actors.
Tell us what you think of the interview with Samantha. What do you think of it? What ideas did you get? Do you have any suggestions? Or did it help you? Let’s have your comments below and/or on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
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