Carol Brandt’s films have been shown at the New Orleans Film Festival, Milwaukee Short Film Festival, and the Beloit International Film Festival where her feature “Things Found on the Ground” won the Audience Choice Award. Her other credits include “Give It Up For The Girl” and “Dear Coward on the Moon.”
“Pet Names” will premiere at the 2018 SXSW Film Festival on March 10.
W&H: Describe the film for us in your own words.
CB: “Pet Names” is a story that follows two ex-partners who go on a camping trip together and hash out old wounds in the woods. I like to think of it as the “Blue Valentine” that doesn’t ruin your life after you watch it.
W&H: What drew you to this story?
CB: The realness of the characters, the humor, the raw emotions within the story. I laughed a lot while reading the script.
W&H: What do you want people to think about when they are leaving the theater?
CB: That people are messy, and that people will always be messy, but that’s kind of why we love them half the time.
W&H: What was the biggest challenge in making the film?
CB: The hardest part was exploring the very real emotions within a script that I didn’t myself write.
W&H: How did you get your film funded? Share some insights into how you got the film made.
CB: Our film was funded entirely by private donors and investors. And all of them were women.
W&H: What does it mean for you to have your film play at SXSW?
CB: It honestly means the world to me. I think most if not all filmmakers dream about premiering their film at SXSW. So it’s definitely a dream come true. Cliche, but true.
W&H: What’s the best and worst advice you’ve received?
CB: Worst advice: If you’re not working in the industry full-time, you’re not a filmmaker.
Best advice regarding filmmaking: If it terrifies you, you should probably do it.
W&H: What advice do you have for other female directors?
CB: You’re not a female director. You’re a director. You should hold yourself to the same standards and caliber that all directors are held to. You are equally as talented and equipped and have just as much of a right to make the movies that men make.
W&H: Name your favorite woman-directed film and why.
CB: “Certain Women” because Kelly Reichardt is a quiet genius, and I am waiting for her to get nominated for an Oscar.
W&H: Hollywood and the global film industry are in the midst of undergoing a major transformation. Many women — and some men — in the industry are speaking publicly about their experiences being assaulted and harassed. What are your thoughts on the #TimesUp movement and the push for equality in the film business?
CB: I think it’s way overdue and can only propel us forward.
