Charlotte Colbert in her debut feature explores the relation between dreams and reality as well as the metaphorical connection between nature and humanity.
“She Will,” scheduled for a 2022 release, had its US premiere at the recent Fantastic Fest Film Festival, with concurrent premieres at select European Film Festivals.
Veronica an aging actress (Alice Krige) convalesces after a life-saving operation at a remote Scottish retreat. Past trauma caused by an abusive relationship with a director Hathbourne (Malcolm McDowell) manifests itself in her dreams.
Testset talked with Colbert, Krige and McDowell in Austin hours before their film screened.
Interconnectedness
“Veronica’s revenge is manifested by nature. She’s connected with this massive palette of nature,” says Krige.
“There are ancient civilizations beneath, the demons of the place.” Veronica intertwines with fate when she takes a bath. “The demons infuse her, the water in her bath carries their touch,” says Krige.
Scotland is known for being closer to nature than many other countries. A good example being the Findhorn Foundation.
Colbert doesn’t necessarily see the film as pure folk horror so much as a psychological thriller. “The history of Scotland has an identity, by being there you capture the folklore. It’s a place where all the other dimensions are accessible,” says Colbert.
McDowell praises her method of working. “Charlotte loves actors. You know who hated actors? Kubrick. Kubrick fired 20 actors on ‘Clockwork Orange,’” says McDowell.
Veronica’s healing regimen awakens spiritual powers. “She Will” makes a big deal about mud and trees and air. As the story progresses there’s no limit to what can be accomplished by combining elements of nature with retribution.
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