Lesleh Donaldson came onto the horror scene in the early 1980’s with films such as Happy Birthday to Me and Curtains. She was recently seen on The Handmaid’s Tale and Jett.
Please introduce yourself.
Hi I’m Lesleh Donaldson.
What is it that attracts you the horror genre for your chosen field of creative work?
When I was a kid, my aunt used to take me to see Hammer Horror movies and I loved them so when I got a chance to do a scary movie I was beyond thrilled. Back in the late 70’s early 80’s, due to the tax shelter in Canada, they were making two types of movies here they were Horror movies and comedies, I seemed to get cast in the former.
Who inspires you in your work and in life?
I’m inspired by anyone who is tenacious and doesn’t give up and can also maintain a positive outlook despite the odds.
What are your passions, cinematic or otherwise?
I’m always passionate about acting but lately I’ve turned to writing scripts. I’d love to produce too, bringing people and scripts together is a huge passion.
Considering this is 2022, why do you think we still need a movement like Women in Horror Month?
I think it’s always great to celebrate women in anything so yes, I think Women in Horror Month is still good, when I was a young actress Horror movies were considered one step up from porn so celebrating it is a good thing.
What would you tell an up-and-coming creative in the world of horror who sees that being a woman/identifying as a woman as something that makes it so much more difficult at times?
It’s hard but it’s getting better. There are more women going behind the scenes and writing good stories. Don’t give up and be true to yourself.
What are your favorite bits of helpful advice that you have received about your work or your field?
Well I’ve always liked the fact that fans liked my work because I was the victim that tried to fight back lol
In honor of celebrating Women in Horror Month, who do you believe viewers should keep an eye on in terms of the creative ladies in horror?
Charlotte Bruus Christensen ( CINEMATOGRAPHER), Jennifer Kent, just to name a few, Also keep an eye out for Ari Aster and Robert Eggers I know they aren’t women but they write strong women characters.
What do you have coming soon that you can talk to us about?
Well I’m busy developing a half hour dramedy called Rubber Jungle and I’ve co-written a script about the infamous Karpis/ Barker gang called Ma Barker keep your fingers crossed on those lol
What do you hope to leave behind in your legacy as an artist?
Making people smile and happy is always a good thing.
Pop them links to follow your work here:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0232129/