The Time of Your Life is a short film about a significant day in the life of Kyra, a young New Yorker who is happy to have her job, her close friends, her boyfriend, and her own place. Yet a closer look reveals her job is stressful, her friends are toxic, her relationship is not great, and her lovely home haunts her.
It was our pleausure to interview the producer of the film, Mofieni Iniya for LA Indies about The Time of Your Life.
What was the inspiration behind the making of The Time of Your Life?
I've been a fan of horror and when I wrote this script, I was shifting my writing to focus on screenwriting. I remember going to dinner with friends and saying I was going through such a time. The phrase came to my mind, and even though the phrase usually means a good time, it doesn't exactly say so. I decided to put a spin on the phrase, to play around with it so it can be taken as "the best time of your life" or "the worst time of your life."
What were some of the challenges of making the film?
I approached Frank Juarez to direct and shoot this film. Everything was planned and went so well! The only challenges were needs that we were able to take care of, I got a special effects make-up artist. I prepared the slime on set. Also, I got a costume while on the way to the set!
When did you realize that you wanted to make films and what was the first film project that you created?
I realized my love for the film when I was watching E.T. in the theater as a child with my family. It was the first film I remember seeing. I knew I loved the story, the music, the movie magic, and I just thought I had to be part of it.
The first film project was actually my reel, Help Me Rise. I wrote the script and we shot it a few months before we shot The Time of Your Life.
Which directors have been influential in your work and why?
Steven Spielberg - I am a fan of the stories and the music composed by John Williams which adds to the stories. E.T. and Close Encounters are my favorites!
Stanley Kubrick - When I watch 2001: A Space Odyssey or The Shining, there are moments of what's really going on here?
M. Night Shyamalan - I am a fan of horror and I enjoyed so many great films growing up. I remember seeing The Sixth Sense in the theater and having to see it twice! For me, it was one of those films that made me want to sleep with the lights on! I subtly pay homage to M. Night Shyamalan in The Time of Your Life by naming the main character, Kyra. And she showed up to the set with a red skirt, the light in the hall is red, and the blanket in the bedroom is red. The color red played an important role in The Sixth Sense and also The Village so I'm quite happy with the synchronous tribute.
What genre of filmmaking do you like to work on?
I enjoy writing fantasy, sci-fi, and comedy, yet my favorite genre is horror. I enjoy writing stories that are mysterious and spooky.
What is the most challenging aspect of making an independent film?
I'm happy I got to work with such an amazing cast and crew. I think funding is the most challenging aspect. I'm so happy everything turned out well for this film.
What is your plan for further distribution of your film?
I am interested in this film to be available on a video on-demand service.
How can cinema change the world and have an impact on society?
Art imitates life. Life imitates art. It is fun to see films become part of pop culture. Films can tell stories that bring to light topics that can be discussed on a large scale. A film with a message is a wonderful way to have entertainment and meaning.
What is your next film project?
I am working on polishing some scripts, I'm happy I got inspired to write new ones. I'm still working on horror.
Why do you make films and what draws you to the language of cinema and directing?
I love writing and creating stories I enjoy. I wrote and illustrated a little children's book titled Eye Can See by Mo Ember. I love spooky stories. Making a film is such an art. Watching a film on the big screen, being able to tell a story visually, that's very exciting to me and I absolutely love it.
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