GRITA founder and filmmaker Paulette Lecaros:
To start, please introduce yourself:
My name is Paulette Lecaros. I’m a 33-year-old filmmaker and screenwriter from Chile. I specialize in fiction and animation projects, with a particular focus on fantastic narratives. I’m thrilled to share that I’m the founder and Creative Director of GRITA, a virtual community dedicated to fantastic films, especially welcoming women and non-binary individuals in Iberoamerica. You can find us on social media as @GritaTerror. In addition to my work with GRITA, I also serve as a manager and panelist at Aterra Podcast. You can catch our episodes on Spotify, where we delve into the female perspective in genre films. Outside of my filmmaking endeavors, I’m deeply passionate about research and education. I’ve had the privilege of contributing as a programmer, distributor, jury member, and workshop facilitator at numerous fantasy film festivals across Latin America. Looking forward to connecting and sharing more about our love for fantastic cinema!
What is horror to you, what makes a work of art one in the horror genre?
Certainly! In considering horror from a female perspective within the Latin American context, it’s important to recognize that horror is not just about fear, but often serves as a powerful lens through which to explore societal, cultural, and gender-related anxieties.
For me, horror encompasses narratives that delve into the complexities of the female experience, addressing themes such as empowerment, agency, and the challenges of navigating a patriarchal society. It’s about more than just jump scares and gore; it’s about confronting and subverting traditional gender roles and stereotypes.
Furthermore, a work of art in the horror genre from a Latin American perspective often draws from rich cultural traditions, folklore, and history. It may explore indigenous beliefs, colonial legacies, or contemporary social issues unique to the region. This infusion of cultural identity adds depth and authenticity to the storytelling, making it resonate more deeply with audiences familiar with the Latin American experience.
Ultimately, what makes a work of art in the horror genre truly impactful is its ability to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and challenge societal norms, all while embracing the diverse perspectives and identities that contribute to the rich tapestry of Latin American culture.
What made you want to work in horror?
For me, it’s the profound exploration of human psychology and societal issues within the genre that drew me in. Growing up, I found myself captivated by the works of iconic filmmakers such as Dario Argento, Brian De Palma, and David Lynch, who crafted intricate narratives with powerful female protagonists at their core. Their films not only pushed the boundaries of the genre but also challenged traditional gender roles, inspiring me to explore similar themes in my own work.
Furthermore, the influence of Latin American female filmmakers like Juliana Rojas and Laura Casabé has been pivotal in shaping my approach to horror. Their ability to infuse their films with elements of social commentary, cultural identity, and strong female characters has been incredibly inspiring. Additionally, the creative energy and passion for storytelling exhibited by a dear friend of mine, Michelle Garza Cervera, further solidified my desire to delve into the world of horror filmmaking.
Horror allows me to confront and challenge societal norms and gender expectations, all while tapping into the rich cultural traditions and folklore of Latin America. It’s a genre that empowers me to explore complex themes such as empowerment, identity, and the human condition in ways that are both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. Ultimately, working in horror is not just about scaring audiences; it’s about using fear as a tool to provoke introspection and spark meaningful conversations about the world we live in.
Where do you get your inspiration?
My inspiration stems from a variety of sources, starting with my upbringing. My mother named me after Paulette Goddard, the actress who made her mark in cinema alongside Charles Chaplin, instilling in me a love for the silver screen from an early age. Both my parents are cinephiles, so I grew up immersed in a wide range of genres, from thrilling policial dramas to mind-bending science fiction and spine-tingling horror.
My own fears, particularly those stemming from living as a woman in the third world, serve as my major inspiration. Growing up in a society where gender inequality and societal expectations weigh heavily, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges and injustices that women face on a daily basis. These experiences have instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and a desire to shed light on the struggles and triumphs of women like myself through my work in horror.
As a filmmaker, I strive to channel these fears and experiences into my storytelling, creating narratives that not only entertain but also challenge societal norms and provoke thought. Horror, with its ability to delve into the darkest corners of the human psyche, provides the perfect platform for me to explore themes of gender, power dynamics, and social injustice.
Drawing inspiration from my own experiences, as well as those of women around me, I aim to create stories that resonate on a deeply personal level while also sparking conversations about the issues that matter most. Whether it’s through a chilling tale of survival in a hostile environment or a supernatural allegory for the struggles of womanhood, my goal is to use horror as a tool for empowerment and social change.
In essence, my own fears and experiences as a woman living in the third world serve as the driving force behind my creative endeavors. Through my work, I hope to shed light on the complexities of the female experience and inspire others to confront their own fears and challenge the status quo.
What would you like your legacy to be in the genre (or elsewhere)?
Well, in my country, the absence of women directors in the genre and fantastic films is a stark reality. Therefore, my aspiration is twofold: first and foremost, I want to break down barriers and pave the way for future generations of women filmmakers to thrive in the genre. I aspire to be a trailblazer, challenging the status quo and proving that women have a unique perspective to offer in the realm of horror and fantastic cinema.
Beyond that, I hope to leave a legacy of storytelling that resonates with audiences on a profound level. I want my films to spark conversations, provoke thought, and inspire change. Whether it’s through the exploration of gender dynamics, social issues, or the human condition, I want to leave behind a body of work that leaves a lasting impact and contributes to the cultural landscape of my country and beyond.
Ultimately, I hope that my legacy serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and the belief that anyone, regardless of gender or background, can make their mark in the world of cinema.
What is Women in Horror Month to you and why is it still important this many years later?
Women in Horror Month holds profound significance for me as it shines a spotlight on the contributions of women in the horror genre, an industry historically dominated by male voices. It’s a time to celebrate the creativity, talent, and resilience of female filmmakers, writers, actors, and other professionals who have made indelible marks on the genre.
Despite the progress that has been made over the years, women continue to face barriers and inequalities in the horror industry and beyond. Women in Horror Month serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for visibility, representation, and recognition of women’s achievements in the genre.
Furthermore, Women in Horror Month provides a platform for amplifying marginalized voices and fostering community and solidarity among women working in horror. It’s a time to uplift each other, share experiences, and inspire the next generation of female horror creators.
As we continue to push for greater diversity and inclusivity in the horror genre, Women in Horror Month remains as important as ever. It’s a vital opportunity to challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and advocate for equal opportunities for women in all aspects of horror filmmaking and storytelling.
Who are some of the Women in Horror who you look up to and who do you want to bring attention to in your field or others?
There are several Women in Horror whom I deeply admire and whose work has inspired me in my own endeavors. Some of these remarkable individuals include:
Jennifer Kent: Director of the critically acclaimed horror film “The Babadook,” Kent’s ability to craft a deeply unsettling and emotionally resonant narrative has left a lasting impact on the genre.
Ana Lily Amirpour: Known for her unique and visually stunning films like “A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night” and “The Bad Batch,” Amirpour’s bold storytelling and boundary-pushing style have garnered widespread acclaim.
Karyn Kusama: Director of films such as “Jennifer’s Body” and “The Invitation,” Kusama has a knack for blending horror with psychological depth, creating thought-provoking and suspenseful narratives.
Julia Ducournau: With her debut feature “Raw,” Ducournau cemented herself as a rising talent in the horror genre, exploring themes of identity, desire, and transformation with visceral intensity.
Gigi Saul Guerrero: A Mexican-Canadian filmmaker known for her work in the horror genre, Guerrero’s films often tackle social issues while delivering thrilling and chilling narratives.
These are just a few examples of the many talented Women in Horror who have made significant contributions to the genre. In addition to bringing attention to established figures, I also want to shine a spotlight on emerging talents and marginalized voices within the industry. It’s essential to support and uplift women at all stages of their careers, amplifying their voices and ensuring they have equal opportunities to share their stories and showcase their talents.
What are you currently working on that you can tell us about?
Currently, I’m excited to share that I’m working on several projects that I’m incredibly passionate about. I’m developing a feature film that explores themes of identity and empowerment through the lens of horror which is called “ANCESTRA”, drawing inspiration from my own experiences as a woman in the third world. Additionally, I’m collaborating on a series of short films that delve into the intersection of science fiction, werewolves and modern-day issues facing women in Latin America.
In addition to my filmmaking pursuits, I’m actively involved in promoting diversity and representation in the horror genre. I’m a proud advocate for Women in Horror Month and participate in events and initiatives aimed at amplifying the voices of female creators in the industry.
You can stay updated on my projects and latest news by following me on social media:
Instagram: @polavamp Twitter: @polavamp Facebook: Paulette Lecaros
I’m also thrilled to connect with fellow horror enthusiasts and filmmakers, so feel free to reach out and join the conversation!