PopHorror Let's Get Scared
It was an honor to have the opportunity to chat with Leah McKendrick. She’s a phenomenal writer and director and I’ve been a fan of her work for a long time. Her new film, Liza Anonymous, is amazing and continues to receive wonderful feedback from both critics and fans. We talked about some of her previous work, the inspiration behind this film, how it feels to have such a badass female team behind Liza Anonymous, and much more!
PopHorror – Hi Leah. How is 2021 treating you so far?
Leah McKendrick – I’m vaxxed! Mom, Dad, and Gram are vaxxed! I feel like I’m coming out of hibernation.
PopHorror – Haha, ditto! Feels good! I just want you to know I’m a huge fan of your work from writing to acting to directing (I loved and wrote reviews for M.F.A., Pamela & Ivy). Out of all the things you do in the filmmaking world, which one is your favorite?
Leah McKendrick – That makes my day! Thanks so much. I think the thing that comes most naturally to me is writing. I’m either writing or thinking about the things that I’m writing or the things that I’m going to write. Acting is like chocolate cake. I love it and always want more. Directing is like a fever dream: I’m battling imposter syndrome demons while trying to choose between two seemingly identical flannel shirts. But most days I’m alone in my corner with my laptop, coffee and headphones on. I feel safe there. Until I start getting notes. Then I feel in danger.
PopHorror – I love that description and look into your mind! Can you tell us a bit about your new short film Liza Anonymous?
Leah McKendrick – I’d say it’s a love letter to the outsiders.
PopHorror – What inspired that story?
Leah McKendrick – My muse, Danielle, who stars in the film. We went to college together and I’ve always been in awe of her ability to throw caution to the wind and just GO for it. She’s done standup, improv, she can just break into song…she’s free. In my acting I can be very afraid of looking stupid. Dani has never been like that. I wanted to write something that showed off her versatility; that gave her a chance to play in different sandboxes. I’m a huge proponent of actors creating their own vehicles.
PopHorror – That’s awesome! I think this story is incredibly relatable and fun. I think everyone, at one point another, wants to fit in. Is that part of what you were going for?
Leah McKendrick – Big time. We’re all struggling to feel seen and accepted. We wear many masks to try to be seen. It’s counterintuitive but human.
PopHorror – How did the casting process come about?
Leah McKendrick – I had a hand in the selection of the director, but once Aubrey was on board, I trusted them along with our casting director, Kristen Paladino, to find that dream team! It was exciting to watch.
PopHorror – Any favorite parts?
Leah McKendrick – I gotta say, I’m a sucker for the ending. I hope it’s satisfying and I hope there’s a bit of surprise! I think of some of my favorite movie endings: Say Anything, The Shape of Water, Thelma & Louise and I’m always aiming for that gut punch/knot in your throat.
PopHorror – YESS! Are you proud to belong to an award-winning all-women team?
Leah McKendrick – Beyond proud. It’s a good time to be a female filmmaker.
PopHorror – Tribeca is a pretty big festival. Are you excited that Liza Anonymous premiered there?
Leah McKendrick – I’ve been rejected by Tribeca for as long as I’ve been making movies. I’m stoked and also PISSED at them.
PopHorror – Haha, oh man you’re just wonderful. While I have you here, you got to tell me more about Summer Lovin’ and what inspired it?
Leah McKendrick – It’s inspired by the song “Summer Nights” in Grease about the summer that Danny and Sandy met. I wish I could spill all the tea, believe me! All I’ll say is that I’m the biggest Grease fan ever and you can trust me! I won’t let you down.
PopHorror – I will definitely be watching it! Anything else you’d like to talk about?
Leah McKendrick – Just wanna say I’m super proud of the whole Liza team and get vaxxed, world!
