Aleksandra Kardalevska: Navigating Loss and Memory in Film

What are the most formidable challenges inherent to the profession of filmmaking?

One of the most formidable challenges in filmmaking is the balance between creative vision and practical constraints. As a filmmaker, you often start with a grand idea or story, but you have to adapt it to fit within budgetary limits, time constraints, and available resources. This balancing act requires a lot of flexibility and problem-solving.

Could you elaborate on the wellspring of your creative inspiration for this particular short film?

Frame of Mind is deeply rooted in my personal experience of loss and the emotional journey that comes with it. The inspiration for this film came from the poignant loss of a dear friend to breast cancer, and it is, at its core, a tribute to her memory. Losing someone so close leaves a profound impact, and I wanted to create a film that speaks not just to my own grief but to the universal experience of navigating life without those we’ve lost. In Frame of Mind, I explore how memories shape us, how the presence of those we’ve lost continues to resonate with us in the quiet spaces of our thoughts and memories.

Could you elucidate on the central thematic underpinning of your film?

The central theme of Frame of Mind revolves around the intricate interplay between love, loss, memory, and grief. At its core, the film seeks to explore how we, as individuals, navigate the emotional labyrinth that follows the loss of a loved one. It touches on the universal experience of grief—the lingering presence of those who are no longer with us and how their absence shapes our reality. Frame of Mind is a reflection on memory, particularly how memories can be both a source of solace and pain. They remind us of the love we shared, but also of the void left behind. The film delves into the idea that although time moves forward, the emotional impact of loss continues to echo, leaving an indelible mark on our psyche.

How do you navigate the task of strategizing cost-effective promotional efforts when operating within a constrained budget?

Operating within a constrained budget requires a combination of creativity and resourcefulness. One of the key strategies is leveraging the power of social media and digital platforms. These channels offer filmmakers the opportunity to reach a wide audience with minimal financial investment. Collaborating with partners and networks is another crucial aspect. Reaching out to film festivals, local communities, or industry contacts can help with promotions, especially through mutual sharing and cross-promotion efforts.

In today's dynamic marketplace, how pivotal do you consider the role of film distribution?

Film distribution is absolutely crucial. No matter how well-made a film is, without proper distribution, it risks never reaching its audience. In today’s marketplace, digital platforms and streaming services offer unprecedented opportunities to reach global viewers, but the challenge lies in cutting through the vast amount of content. For me, distribution is not just about getting the film out there, but about strategically positioning it so it can resonate with the right audience. A strong distribution plan can elevate a film from being just another project to a cultural conversation.

For individuals contemplating the path of self-distribution, what counsel or insights can you offer?

For short films, self-distribution is often a typical path, especially in the beginning. It can be empowering but requires a strategic mindset and a willingness to wear many hats. First and foremost, filmmakers should understand their audience deeply, tailoring every decision—from platform selection to marketing—to resonate with them. Building a strong digital presence is key; social media, personal websites, and email lists create direct connections with viewers, enabling more personal engagement. It’s essential to plan carefully for costs, as self-distribution involves handling marketing, platform fees, and logistics. Budget wisely and allocate resources to maximize impact. Finally, be patient; success in self-distribution often builds over time. It requires persistence and continuous promotion, but in the end your film can make the journey incredibly rewarding.

In your estimation, what level of significance do short films hold for aspiring filmmakers seeking to embark on a career in directing?

Short films hold immense significance for aspiring filmmakers as they serve as both a creative playground and a practical training ground. For directors, short films provide the opportunity to hone their craft in a manageable format, allowing them to experiment with storytelling, visual style, and character development without the immense pressures of feature-length projects. This flexibility fosters innovation and encourages you to take risks, ultimately helping you to refine your voice and artistic vision. Also, short films can open doors to film festivals, competitions, and networking opportunities, which are crucial for aspiring directors looking to establish themselves in a competitive landscape.

Reflecting on your professional journey thus far, could you share an instance of the most formidable challenge you encountered and how you surmounted it?

For me, and I believe for many short film directors, finding funding is one of the most formidable challenges. However, when you have a strong desire to bring your vision to life, that passion tends to attract amazing friends and collaborators who share your dedication. With their help, what seems impossible can become a reality. In my experience with Frame of Mind, it was the collective effort and commitment of my team that enabled us to push through the financial hurdles and move forward with the project. Another major challenge during Frame of Mind was the extreme weather conditions. We shot in Skopje during a particularly cold period, and the city was blanketed in heavy pollution and fog, which severely limited visibility. The crew’s adaptability and creativity were key to overcoming these obstacles, and their contributions were vital in making the film possible under such tough conditions.

What, in your view, are the critical factors that contribute to the creation of a cinematic masterpiece?

In my view, a cinematic masterpiece hinges on three key factors: a compelling story, emotional depth, and flawless execution. At its core, the story must resonate with audiences on a universal level, while offering a unique perspective. Emotional connection is crucial—if viewers relate to the characters, the film will have a lasting impact. Collaboration is also vital. From direction and cinematography to acting and editing, every element must work in harmony. Finally, attention to detail, whether in visuals, sound, or pacing, ties everything together to create a powerful, timeless piece of cinema.

If you could revisit the inception of your career, are there any aspects or decisions you would choose to alter in hindsight?

If I could revisit the start of my career, I wouldn’t change much, as every experience has contributed to my growth. However, if I could change one thing, it would be to trust my instincts more early on. In the beginning, I sometimes hesitated, doubting my creative choices or delaying projects until I felt they were “perfect.” Over time, I learned that there is value in trusting your vision and embracing imperfections as part of the process.