Please introduce yourself. What do you do? Why? What do you want people to know about you?
My name is Kelly Sarri, I am an LA-based filmmaker originally from Greece. In my projects, I find myself exploring the experience of haptic vision and that is why the use of texture is very important in my works, either that is a physical texture or added in post. My work ranges from documentaries to fiction films to music videos with a focus on the underrepresented, strong female voices and experimentation with movement versus static frames.
What qualities make you different and unique from everyone else in the industry?
I believe working in a balanced environment is the basis of a nice set, good collaborations and joyful memories thus I always want to make people feel welcome and collaborate in a nurturing environment. That is why for example I start each day on set with a 5-minute meditation practice available to all cast and crew. Feeling safe and cared for is very important to me so I want others to experience when we work together so we can create, laugh and enjoy our work.
Describe THAT moment when you realized you’re doing what you were born to do.
I think that happens every time that someone, especially not a fellow filmmaker, reaches out to me and tells me “this film of yours really spoke to me or I enjoyed” and then we start a conversation where they share their thoughts. Those moments I feel understood and connected and make me feel whole that I was able to create something that spoke to someone in a particular way.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve had to go through and how did you grow through it?
To feel confident to put my work out there. There is not one way to overcome this, I tried reading books on it, positive self-talk, and discussing it with fellow filmmakers.
Who are the TOP 3 people you’d want to meet that could elevate your career or business? Why these specific individuals?
Ava DuVernay, Margot Robbie, and Issa Rae. I believe that these three individuals are really remarkable in their own way, but they all tell diverse, meaningful, and impactful stories as filmmakers. Through their production platforms, they have changed the entertainment industry at different levels and are great examples of female entrepreneurs. I would love to work with Ms. DuVernay and learn from her as a filmmaker. Margot Robbie, apart from being an outstanding actress, as a producer really levels up the entertainment scene. Last but not least, having a chance to work with Issa Rae would be a dream come true as her professional journey is an excellent example of how to navigate the digital space.
Drop your social media links.
Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellysarri
https://www.instagram.com/gynarchyseries/guide/gynarchy-episodes/17959221625898322/