PAGAN VIRTUES, 5min., Australia
Directed by Kaylia Jade McGarry
This is a very selfish experimental film reflecting on my lust for shiny things in every way, shape or form. This project explores the virtues of divinity, devotion and despair; natural forces worshipped religiously in the human condition. I aimed to capture the energy of a pagan fire ritual. The film is carnivorous, grotesque, elegant and sinister; celebrating what becomes after the death of innocence. This is also a tribute to the last three years of oscillating between enemies and soulmates with someone until an ill-fated end midway through production, giving the film a personal depth. All footage was shot on my iPhone with me and a tripod. I intend to haunt and hypnotise viewers regardless of my lo-fi production methods.

https://www.youtube.com/@kayliajade
https://www.instagram.com/kayliajade/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?

• There were a number of factors that evolved over time to create this film. My love of experimental film was evoked by my film teacher at school who taught me about surrealism and how to defy conventional narratives. Covid took away my class's opportunity to make an experimental film project, so now that's what I desire to create the most. Ideas for this project started over a year ago when I entertained the thought of making a music video for one of my favourite songs, Say The Name by Clipping. The visual inspiration of fire, gore and a young female's corrupted innocence were derived from the lyrics. Fast forward to this year and I was motivated to finally make this film just with my iPhone and a tripod in my apartment. I initially intended it to be somewhat of a twisted romance film, as I was living with a partner at the time. Our history resonated with a lot of the spiritual and sadistic themes present. They were featured in a few scenes, however, certain tragedies post-production caused me to remove them, giving the film a slightly vengeful context. Some of the film's visuals, like the drawings and heart stabbing, were ironically filmed before events occurred. Nevertheless, this film was made purely for creative merit with the grotesque, surreal aesthetic I admire. I wanted to defy all the polished short films my film peers make on expensive equipment with large teams. Film is my favourite medium of art.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?

• The idea for it was brewing in the back of my mind for over a year. From initiating a plan to the finished product, it took approximately two months for my life to turn on its head and finish the production.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?

• Sadistic pleasure

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?

• The life events that made editing this film my only therapy. Starting my adult life, Isolation, living alone, managing my final year of uni, work, family grief and then heartbreak.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?

• I was absolutely thrilled, particularly the feedback outlining its sense of danger, disturbing atmosphere and resemblance to watching a murder. This is the highest form of compliment for me. I intend to keep people awake at night.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?

• I knew I wanted to become an editor from the moment I first used iMovie in class, likely before I was 10. Over the years I expanded my craft into a career and soon a degree. I maintain my work-life balance by juxtaposing my corporate content with cryptic experiments.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?

• I prefer short-form content over feature films. My most watched is likely the Netflix series Love, Death and Robots, particularly the short Jibaro; which inspired the dancing scenes in this film. Midsommar is also a great film with themes that inspired my production.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?

• I couldn't ask for anything more, the feedback video is more than I could've asked for and I'm so grateful. I'm merely an insect emerging into the world of film so my satisfactions are small. I'm very happy to have my first laurel.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?

• Pretty decent, I found out about FilmFreeway in an editing class in uni, so I thought I'd try my luck on it with Pagan Virtues. I have discovered that purchasing film entries is my favourite form of gambling. I just wish I realised everything was in USD rather than AUD, whoops.

10. What is your favorite meal?

• Pad Thai will always be a winner.

11. What is next for you? A new film?

• My plan for the year; graduate, scream, and then seek inspiration for my next experimental piece whilst I enter the real world beyond education. I am looking forward to finding new opportunities in the creative industry.