September 30, 2024

Rebecca Rütten: Shedding Light on Refugee Stories Through Film

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

As times change, reaching an audience has become harder due to the saturation of content and cuts in budgets for distribution and media channels. Filmmakers now depend heavily on networks and connections to get their work seen, but with everyone having access to filmmaking tools, competition is fierce. The collaborative nature of filmmaking remains a strength, but standing out in an industry where “everyone is a filmmaker” is more difficult than ever. Despite these challenges, the reward of creating a compelling story that resonates with audiences continues to drive the craft forward.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

The inspiration for “Across the Sea” stems from witnessing the stark contrast between the European Union’s commitment to human rights and the tragic loss of life at its borders. My encounters with the civil sea rescue organizations, particularly Sea-Watch, were pivotal. Their relentless efforts to make the invisible visible moved me to document the realities faced by refugees and the rescuers themselves. The testimony of a refugee, shared immediately after a rescue, profoundly shaped the direction of the film.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hide and Seek | Poster
Karolina Belka

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

The film also highlights a lesser-discussed issue: the narrative of many refugees is deeply intertwined with the narrative of human trafficking. This is a proven reality, backed by reports from organizations like Human Rights Watch, but it’s often overlooked in mainstream media. Through a personal story, the film exposes both the human cost of governmental inaction and the ongoing exploitation of refugees by human traffickers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Personally, I fund my social projects by working in advertising, which allows me to finance passion projects like this. It’s nearly impossible to find sponsors for these types of films, so I rely on my own resources and use social media platforms to promote the work and raise awareness. This approach makes it possible to share important stories despite limited external support.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Film distribution is absolutely pivotal in today’s marketplace. Without proper distribution, even the most powerful stories may struggle to find an audience. With traditional media channels facing budget cuts, filmmakers must rely more heavily on alternative distribution methods like digital platforms and social media to reach viewers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

For those considering self-distribution, I recommend focusing on building a strong community. Understand your target audience and leverage social media platforms to foster a direct connection with them. Collaborating with like-minded organizations can amplify your reach and create a supportive network for promoting your work. Additionally, utilize film festivals and online screenings as launchpads for visibility.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Short films are more accessible to produce and can serve as a calling card to showcase a director’s potential to a wider audience. For me, “Across the Sea” is less about personal career advancement and more about raising awareness about critical issues.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

One of the most formidable challenges I faced was maintaining a healthy work-life balance while pursuing my passion for working with images. To avoid toxic relationships with work, I established an 8-to-5 work hour dynamic and prioritized giving myself regular breaks. I learned to make my money in areas where people truly needed my services, which then allowed me to fund my own projects. Staying humble and not feeling too good for certain tasks has been crucial; it keeps me grounded and focused on the bigger picture. By implementing these strategies, I’ve been able to navigate the pressures of the industry while still pursuing meaningful work.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

While stunning visuals can enhance a film, it’s the depth of storytelling and emotional resonance that truly captivates audiences.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

I wouldn’t alter any aspects or decisions of my career; I believe every experience has contributed to my growth. Instead of looking back with regret, I choose to keep moving forward, learning from each project and challenge. Every step has shaped my perspective and approach, reinforcing my commitment to storytelling and raising awareness about important issues. Embracing this journey, with all its ups and downs, has been invaluable in shaping who I am today.

KAAFFILM is an international network of distribution, production, and promotion of short films. #Kaaffilm

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