Graduation Winter 2022 - María Matthíasdóttir, Directing and Producing
María Matthiasdóttir is graduating from Directing and Producing with her film “Responsible”
Johanna is a young woman who takes on her coming adulthood while confronting the difficulties of domestic violence
What is the first movie experience you remember?
There are quite a few of them and you never remember which one was the very first. The main ones are probably Spiderman and Little Miss Sunshine. When I was younger and watched Spiderman for the first time, I didn't understand how he could climb all the walls, change clothes so fast, and how a person could fly behind him in the movie. Little Miss Sunshine was so central to many dear visits to my grandparents. I always thought the relationship between the grandfather and the granddaughter was so entertaining and how a whole family could overcome their differences and come together at the end of the movie.
What fascinates you about filmmaking?
Everything that happens behind the scenes and the collaboration that develops is so much fun - that everyone has a common interest and drive to make the idea a reality and to be able to express their vision. I also find it so fascinating to have the freedom to show all kinds of perspectives, images and create worlds, as well as being able to convey important messages through filmmaking.
Why did you choose your department?
I chose Directing and Producing because I wanted to learn how as a director I can bring my vision to life. Being able to guide others and tell stories based on my experiences or ideas. Regarding the production, I wanted to learn more about it to know how everything works. I have always found it best to be able to have an overview of most things and learn how best to implement things that you set your mind to.
Did anything particularly surprise you during your education?
Yes, what surprised me the most was the amount of effort put into filmmaking. I knew that there was a lot that needed to be done, but everything from an idea to the final result requires a lot of work, interest and perseverance, which is quite vigorous but worth it. I also learned how important it is to get out of your comfort zone. It's hard to share your ideas, especially if they're personal and hope they're good enough or interesting, but that's why you have to trust yourself and allow yourself to experiment on.
And what does the future look like?
The future is bright and I look forward to what lies ahead.
