NYWIFT Blog

During COVID the theater world shut down and that’s when I decided to make a film – mentioned above. I shot it all over the country with actors that I knew but under COVID conditions. Hence, co-stars of their scenes might be their roommates, spouses or even kids. And I directed it by watching the scenes through a ZOOM lens.

Maura’s Film, The Non-Essentials, “deals with various characters’ lives as they navigate the period of time right before the pandemic and culminating with the murder of George Floyd.” (Courtesy of Fugitive Sister Productions)

Your work, The Non-Essentials, explores characters navigating complex issues during the pandemic. What was it like to work on this project and can you discuss the importance of storytelling in shedding light on social issues or human experiences?

I try to shed light on human experience with every story I tell. This project was unique, however. Although it was fiction, I developed the narratives with the cast – what was important to them during this shared time. My cast is both multiracial and multigenerational.

Can you share a bit about your creative process when developing a screenplay or film project? How do you typically begin and refine your ideas?

I get flooded with ideas very easily. I more or less wander around the planet creating scenarios when I should be watching where I’m going or following a conversation. It’s the ideas that won’t leave me alone that I pursue.

NYWIFT Member Maura Campbell (photo courtesy of Maura Campbell)

Are there any particular directors or screenwriters who have inspired or influenced your approach to filmmaking?

William Goldman was my hero. Ang Lee, Wes Anderson, Steven Spielberg – the greats of my generation. But I’m also inspired by some of the comedy series such as Schitt’s Creek, Parks and Rec and others that combine small town life with honest humor. I’m from a small town – I can spot good representation of that culture and I love writing about it. But frankly, I like any story well told.

A play by Maura Campbell (Courtesy of Maura Campbell)

You’re a member of The Actor’s Studio PDU and The Lambs. How has being a part of these communities influenced your work and creative journey?

The Actor’s Studio is a place where I can listen to a play read every week and engage in a dialogue that further sharpens my own sensibilities. The Lambs has been a place of collaboration. I started a playwrights’ group there and several members (who are also composers) and I have written a musical called Anna and Fyodor about Dostoyevsky and his first wife. Rehearsals start tonight!

Another of Maura’s works (image courtesy of Maura Campbell)

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in the industry, and how have you overcome them?

Money. But also knowing the right people to work with. Honestly, until I moved to New York City, both of these were major hurdles. Now that I’m here everything seems to work out. Still looking for money all the time but convinced I’m doing what I’m meant to do.

What projects are you currently working on?

In addition to the musical, I am filming a feature called Quirks. It began as episodic but the story is evolving in a way that makes it better suited to the longer form. I have several young people I’m collaborating with who simply need the support and expertise of an older writer like me. I am open to helping anyone who is struggling with telling a story, their story, any story.

NYWIFT Member Maura Campbell at Cannes (photo courtesy of Maura Campbell)

Check out fugitivesister.com to read more about Maura and her work, and connect with her on Instagram at @Maura_1222.