Interview with film producer & director Anna Panova
Welcome Ms Panova we are very excited to have you today with us to discuss about your work.
First off, Who is Anna Panova and how did the passion for filmmaking begun ?
I’m a producer and director with experience in global campaign production, editorials, experiential content and film production.
I had the privilege of collaborating with renowned brands and publications, bringing their creative visions to life.
The passion for filmmaking ignited within me during my studies as a journalist. While exploring the realm of storytelling, I became increasingly drawn to the captivating power of documentary filmmaking and the broader art of filmmaking itself. I realized that through film, I could not only convey stories but also immerse audiences in the rich tapestry of narratives, emotions, and perspectives.
Can you tell us about your previous work ?
During my career as a producer and director, I have delivered impactful global campaigns, executed editorial shoots for various publications around the globe such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, GQ, etc. Also I produced experiential content for high-profile events and brands such as Hublot, Tommy Hilfiger, Bvlgari, Jonathan Simkhai and many others.
One of my achievements includes producing and directing ‘Point Symmetry," a film that participated in esteemed festivals such as the Moscow Jewish Film Festival, Gershman Philadelphia Jewish Film Festival and the Festival on Nations. Additionally, another film that I produced, "Generation 328" was recognized as the "Best Short Film" at the Woodstock Film Festival and selected for prestigious festivals like Watch Docs, Anchorage International film festival, Tallgrass International Film Festival, Thomas Edison film festival and the Sarasota Film Festival.
CONVERSATION ABOUT: POINT SYMMETRY
Talk to us about your film ''Point Symmetry' , how was it created and what inspired it ?
"Point Symmetry" is a documentary that delves into the contrasting yet interconnected stories of Ute Gfrerer and Lisa Rosowsky, two Boston-based middle-aged women. Ute, the daughter of a German soldier, and Lisa, whose parents and grandparents were sent to Auschwitz, share their personal experiences and journeys of healing, forgiveness, and remembrance. Through their intersecting narratives, the film explores the power of empathy and the enduring impact of historical events, inviting viewers to reflect on the transformative nature of shared stories.
"Point Symmetry" is a film that holds a special place in my heart. It was created with a vision to explore the complexities of human connections and the power of forgiveness in the face of adversity. The inspiration for the film stemmed from personal experiences and a deep fascination with the resilience of the human spirit.
The film follows the intertwined journeys of two individuals, each representing contrasting sides of the war. Through their experiences, we delve into the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the lasting impact of historical events. It serves as a poignant reminder of the human capacity for resilience and transformation.
How did you come across our two narrators and how symbolic is the title ''Point Symmetry'' in their contradicting stories ?
The introduction to Ute was made possible through Julia, a mutual acquaintance who recognized the value of Ute's perspective and connected us.
Upon learning about Ute's remarkable background as the daughter of a German soldier and a member of the Nazi Youth, we were intrigued by the potential to explore her contrasting story alongside Lisa's experiences.
Through a series of phone calls with both Lisa and Ute, we engaged in deep discussions about their lives, the impact of World War II on their families, and the importance of sharing their stories. These conversations solidified our belief in the significance of documenting their upcoming event in Boston, which was a culmination of their shared experiences and their individual journeys towards healing and remembrance.
Filming their event provided a powerful visual representation of their shared endeavor, amplifying the impact of their narratives and emphasizing the transformative power of remembrance.
What was the ''For Our Fathers'' evening event ?
The ''For Our Fathers'' evening event was a program organized by Ute Gfrerer and Lisa Rosowsky, the two narrators of the film "Point Symmetry." The event aimed to commemorate and pay tribute to their fathers and the experiences they endured during World War II.
During the evening, a series of Holocaust-related songs, which were poems set to music by renowned composers like Kurt Weill, Norbert Glanzberg, and Hermann Leopoldi, were performed. These songs served as a powerful medium for Ute and Lisa to express their grief, honor their fathers' memories, and explore their own personal journeys of healing.
Accompanying the musical performances were captivating and thought-provoking artworks that delved into the themes of family history, memory, and the lasting impact of the Holocaust.
What was the atmosphere you wanted to showcase and the goal of this documentary ?
The atmosphere I aimed to showcase in the documentary "Point Symmetry" was one of emotional depth, introspection, and shared empathy. Through the intertwining stories of Ute Gfrerer and Lisa Rosowsky, our goal was to create a space where viewers could immerse themselves in the experiences and reflections of these two remarkable women.
What is the target audience of your project ?
The target audience of our project, "Point Symmetry," encompasses individuals who are interested in thought-provoking documentaries, historical narratives, and stories of personal resilience. This includes viewers who appreciate introspective storytelling, have a curiosity about the complexities of human experiences, and seek to broaden their understanding of historical events.
What is the message the audience should convey leaving the screening of your film ?
The message we aim for the audience to convey upon leaving the screening of "Point Symmetry" is the power of empathy, healing, and the importance of remembering and honoring the past. Through the intertwining stories of Ute Gfrerer and Lisa Rosowsky, we hope viewers will understand the transformative nature of shared stories and the profound impact historical events can have on individuals and generations. Ultimately, the film's message emphasizes the significance of embracing our shared humanity, learning from history, and fostering compassion in our interactions with others.
Any future projects incoming ? Along with personal aspirations.
Currently, I am working on a few editorial projects. These projects involve collaborating with talented photographers, stylists, and models to create compelling narratives. In addition, I am thrilled to be in the pre-production phase for a renewed fashion brand. This opportunity allows me to combine my passion for fashion with my project management skills.
I am passionate about expanding my creative endeavors into narrative filmmaking. I have been working on several script ideas and exploring different genres that resonate with me. My aspiration is to bring compelling stories to life on the big screen, stories that evoke emotions and challenge perceptions.
That was the interview with our beloved creator Anna Panova. Our community is rising everyday, new talented filmakers and screenwriters get onboard. Be sure to check the rest of our interviews and why not schedule one for yourself to promote your work. To publish an interview simply submit on the INTERVIEW OF YOUR FILM category on our Filmfreeway page.
