From Scotland to Hollywood: Felix Mack on Trans Representation, Creativity, and Cinema
PRODUCER
Show Notes:
In this episode of the Slow Dive podcast, host Farida Rafique engages in a deep conversation with Felix Mack, a trans filmmaker from Scotland. They explore Felix's journey from the UK to the US, his experiences in the film industry, and the importance of community and creativity in storytelling. The discussion also dives into the misrepresentation of the trans community, the challenges faced in accessing healthcare, and the future of independent filmmaking in a changing Hollywood landscape. Farida Rafique and Felix Mack explore cinema's evolving landscape, reboots' impact, and AI's role in storytelling.
They discuss the importance of independent filmmaking and the need for community and collaboration in the arts. The dialogue emphasizes the value of creatives in society and the necessity of appreciating their contributions. They conclude with reflections on finding a home in understanding and support within communities.
Takeaways:
Felix Mack is a trans filmmaker passionate about inclusive storytelling.
The trans community faces significant misrepresentation in the media.
Listening to trans voices is essential for understanding their experiences.
Independent filmmaking offers opportunities for marginalized voices.
Hollywood's gatekeeping limits diverse storytelling.
The importance of representation in film cannot be overstated.
The future of film may lie in independent projects.
Reboots can lead to redundancy in storytelling.
Terrifier 3's success highlights the importance of fan engagement.
AI cannot create taste in storytelling.
Independent filmmaking is crucial for innovative storytelling.
Community and collaboration are essential in the arts.
Creatives deserve more respect and better compensation.
Finding a home means having a space for difficult conversations.
Responding to hate requires building supportive communities.
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE:
Edinburgh, Scotland 🏴
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Felix Mack and His Journey
10:47 Community and Creativity in Filmmaking
24:41 Misrepresentation and Understanding of the Trans Community
36:35 The Future of Independent Filmmaking
41:58 The Role of AI in Storytelling
49:04 The Future of Independent Filmmaking
56:03 The Importance of Community and Collaboration
01:02:02 Art, Culture, and the Value of Creatives
01:07:02 Finding Home in Community and Understanding
Originally from Scotland, Felix Mack is a filmmaker who focuses on shared joy and community. He is an alumnus of the Warner Bros. Discovery Early Career Bootcamp and the Film North Inclusive and Socially Conscious Filmmaking Lab, and his work has screened at film festivals nationwide, including Babyteeth, 29Queer, and Out on Film.
Recent projects include WILLA JUSTICE - DRAG QUEEN PRIVATE EYE, a spy comedy short proof of concept featuring Emmy nominee Scott Turner Schofield and directed by Jonathan Andre Culliton, and ROUGHING IT, featuring Emmy nominee Erinn Hayes and directed by Michael D Cohen.
When he’s not making movies, he is usually telling people about the time he used to live in a tree.
https://www.heathandhenshaw.com/willa
https://29qffshop.square.site/ (Merch to support Willa Justice feature and 29 Queer Film Festival)
