Growing up, Sinead Aphrodite was constantly inspired by life – to understand it, embrace it, creatively express the intricate depths and layers that she felt or witnessed around her. A great part of this was thanks to her beautiful, creative mum, Kerry. From a very young age Sinead’s life was full of art, crafts, nature, all genres/era of music and film… her eyes were wide open, creativity was all around her and it was limitless.
#SineadAphrodite #SFX #MAKEUP #ACTRESS #Writer #Director #Hairdresser #FILMCrew #Lyricist pic.twitter.com/SOyxGKI6gv
— Sinead Aphrodite (@SineadAphrodite) September 9, 2016
Sinead was encouraged to ask questions, dream big, know her value and have larger than life conversations, to her this is a sense of home and anywhere else she felt out of place, as she often did in school. After school Sinead studied psychology – which fascinated her but long term she would have felt stifled – well that bombed out… so she dusted herself off and moved to the next idea, acting. Sinead started on some short films, which she loved mixing with the crew and bringing the vision to life. Not long after she got to be a part of Schapelle and San Andreas; this was a great turning point for Sinead. During filming she was next to Ioan Gruffudd in the earthquake scene. Sinead was amazed after talking to him and seeing how he prepared himself for each take, She decided at that second to be comfortable in her own process – “I will never forget the moment he turned around and looked at me genuinely concerned to see me crying and terrified.” says Sinead
Sinead Aphrodite alongside Ioan Gruffudd in San Andreas (The Earthquake scene)
indieactivity: Did you study what you do?
Sinead: I have studied here and there, although I believe the best foundation comes from not over thinking, saying I can do this and focusing on the moment of each scene – embrace it, hear it, feel it and let yourself react – It feels more genuine.
indieactivity: What is your filmmaking process?
Sinead: I’m not a believer in any one technique. As my thoughts and mood adjusts, so do my techniques. The Meisner/ method technique I use in small doses; it tends to help me express anger and aggression. I often opt for more subtle techniques that don’t take such a toll on you to be in and constantly stay in character – I believe it’s healthier for me and I enjoy playing a wider range of roles when I’m not constantly consumed by it. Sense memory for me often brings out more introvert feelings of vulnerability. I draw a lot of my inspiration from listening to different music playlists purposely created to get to the heart of my emotion I’m searching for – Once I feel it, the flood gates start to open… It becomes sincere. Last but not least – I’m a huge people watcher … Yep I officially sound like a STALKER, But seriously I find it intriguing. When you see a mother and daughter walk the same or two strangers that share the same trait – It’s about embracing the similarities and differences within us; using those specific characteristics and habits identified to express your characters life and choices.
indieactivity: Tell us about the work you have produced?
Sinead: My work is completely focused on the growth of the story. There is no room for ego, everyone is working hard within their roles – I think it is important to have an understanding of each role and it’s process to produce the best quality of work for everyone involved.
indieactivity: Do you take courses to improve your craft?
Sinead: I have taken a few workshops and believe they’re great to get you out of that comfort zone. Currently I have just finished one with Matthew Barry in LA and have since done training in the field of Stunts and Stage Combat, Hairdressing, Cinema-graphic and SFX makeup
indieactivity: How did you get into the film business?
Sinead: My love of writing was never enough; I want to bring it to life. Acting is not enough; I want to set the emotional tone of music. Music is not enough; I want to reveal the story from the angle of my lenses to soul of yours… I guess Directing will one day be on the horizon.
indieactivity: How do you turn an idea into a screenplay?
Sinead: Connect with the characters. What is the feel of their surroundings and environment? What is their home like? (Dark, light, cluttered, filled with books and well travelled artifacts), Are their family and friends Close or distant? What are their values? Is the neighborhood cultural, suburban pleasantry separated by white picket fences or rough and shadowed over with the smog-filled thick air? The more parts to the puzzle the clearer the image, only then will you find the characters voice. Find the journey and create a strong timeline.
indieactivity: Explain your writing process?
Sinead: When I was little I used to watch Disney’s Fantasia, a story painted by the imagination to the colours and movements within the feeling of music. All creative journeys run alongside each other – you just need to feel it, let it resonate with your imagination and share your world of creation and wonder outwardly. Inspiration is in a film, a piece of music, nature or a stranger’s individual style; the instant it makes you feel, you write… It’s about harnessing your passion to express what you see and feel to those that never had the chance to. Also focus on your writing time line – beginning, middle and end; growing up I was so swept away it was all beginning, complex middle and never end!
indieactivity: What writing tip or idea can you share with writers?
Sinead: Be fearless; don’t be afraid to express any shade of life and the emotions that come with it… People may not understand and some may be opinionated and not like it – but your vision grows from being true to it and openly expressing it.
indieactivity: What do you want to change about the film business?
Sinead: I want people to be encouraged, not discouraged. To collaborate and make something diverse and great – opposed to fearing competition. I would also like to see more female directors.
indieactivity: What do you want to be remembered for?
Sinead: Being honest to my vision, having the courage to embrace my passion – no matter how scary at times it may be and having a great team by my side.
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