5 Questions with Hanna Radjawanè
Photo by Kanya Iwana
The poetic experimental film “Paradox of Love” finds its power in merging evocative music and visuals, and grappling with ideas of love and struggle. We asked director Hanna Radjawanè how the project started, about the most fulfilling aspect, and what comes next for her…
1) Can you talk briefly about your background, and how you first got interested in filmmaking?
Growing up in a Dutch-Indonesian family, my life wasn't always surrounded by art. So, I remember vividly when I saw Lars Von Trier's Breaking The Waves at the age of 13. I was so stunned from witnessing the journey that these characters had to go through. I think that might be what originated my love for cinema. Because of my culture and age at the time, I would get into trouble for watching these obscure films; but I was obsessed. It came to a point where I was aggravated at how most movies playing at the big screens would leave me with the same escapism experience. I had to really dig to find flicks that excite me. It did not take long to realize that; films that I identify with are not as available to the public. So, I started making it.
2) How did this project originate - what was the initial idea and how did it evolve from there?
I met a very special friend. Over beers and cigarettes at Highland Park, Patchy shared the bitter-sweet love story that led to her drug-abuse. Being so young (15 y.o) and infatuated, it was difficult for her to see that the girl she was in love with was merely using her as a drug-plug. As I clearly remember the crazy experiences of the first time I was in love with a girl, her story resonated with me. Reminiscing how I went through those difficult times by slowly discovering and accepting myself, I thought this was a story that I needed to tell.
3) What was the most fulfilling part of this project for you? And/or the most frustrating part?
It was fulfilling to know that I was creating a piece that is true to me. But, casting was definitely a challenge. It took us a full year to finally found the right person to play Patchy. I refused to just have any girl and dress her as this character as it was extremely important to me that she naturally exudes the androgyny we want to present.
4) What’s a film you’ve seen recently, new or old, that you really loved and why?
Heaven Knows What by The Safdie Brothers. Their choice to present characters and stories that would go into depths of intrinsic human emotions in today's society is commendable. As most filmmakers today choose to tell stories that focus on good representations, I think it's important to show that flawed characters can prevail too. When I saw this film, as a filmmaker I thought to myself; "Oh, there's hope for me."
5) What’s next for you?
My biggest aspiration is to continue to share my perspective on cinema; creating films that uplift voices of the unheard. Films that will make you put your phone down. Films that are made to be experienced. Films I'd like to see.
Contact Info:
Website: http://www.radicalhorde.com
Instagram: @h__a__n___