We all recall fairy tale stories from our formative years but you ain't seen one like this! We chatted to Louisa Warren, director of Cinderella's Curse ahead of its premiere at FrightFest 2024.
NYX: Was there one movie you saw whilst you were growing up which made you want to work in the film industry?
LW: I used to watch Home Alone as a kid and I thought that all the set ups to deter the criminals were super fun and I would wonder what it was like filming that on set.
NYX: You’ve already directed a vast amount of horror movies, what is it about the genre you enjoy?
LW: I love the fact that it gives the viewer an experience, and the chance to explore something that you do not want to encounter in real life!
NYX: How did you become attached to Cinderella’s Curse?
LW: I was offered the job as I have previously directed a lot of horror movies for ITN and I was excited to accept!
NYX: Was it a tough movie to cast?
LW: I was only involved with the casting of a couple of the characters and I love all of them I wouldn't change any of them for the world!
NYX: Did they have much time to rehearse?
LW: Because of the quick turn around rehearsals were just before we did a take.
NYX: Did you have much budget to play with as the movie does look really good?
LW: The budget of the movie is way higher than what I am used to and it was really fun to be able to do cool shots such as setting someone on fire and the explosions.
NYX: It plays like Carrie meets Die Hard in places, did Kelly Rian Sanson need to be in shape to play the lead?
LW: Kelly is a dancer and is incredibly in shape!
NYX: There’s some great set-pieces, which one are you most proud of?
LW: I really like the first time we see the Fairy Godmother. The eerie shots and lighting added to the mystery of who is beyond the curtains creating a lot of suspense and it's when you start to feel Cinderella is really being pulled towards their world.
NYX: Was it all shot on location?
LW: The ballroom was across two locations in London to accommodate the horses, the castle was on location in Scotland, and the explosions and fire were shot in Kent on some land for this purpose.
NYX: Would you like to bring another fairy tale character to the horror genre?
LW: Potentially as there is a lot of scope to play with as each fairy tale can be adapted to have a dark twist!
NYX: Will you be nervous when the movie has its UK premiere at FrightFest 2024?
LW: I will be terrified.
NYX: You act, direct, produce movies, do you have a favourite job?
LW: Each role is fun in different ways and I love them all the same!
NYX: So, what are you up to at the moment?
LW: I am producing 9 movies currently and will be back to directing and acting soon!
NYX: Louisa Warren, thank you very much.
LW: Thank you!
