Award-winning performance artist and filmmaker Vilma Jackson has written, produced and stars in a powerful short film which she hopes will influence change. The Cycle is a psychological drama-thriller combining real-life experiences and fiction, revealing the plight of a Black, Deaf woman who is let down by authorities and struggles to find help as she tries to escape abuse and rebuild her life. I had a virtual catch up with Vilma for a chat about her new film and what inspires her…and of course. throw in some of the Spending Time With…questions that I very much love to do. Thanks Vilma.
What are some of your favourite films, and why do you love them?
To be honest, I don’t have specific favourite films due to the vast number of talented directors and writers who create amazing works. I have a broad appreciation for cinema, especially international films, making it difficult to single out just one. However, there are a few that have made a lasting impact on me, such as "Get Out" from the USA, ‘’Black Mirror’’ from Canada/UK, ‘’The Invisible Guest” from Spain, “Winter Sun”from Turkey, ‘’Kahaani’’ from Indian, ‘’Behind Her Eyes’’ from UK, ‘’The Help’’ from USA, ‘’My Brilliant Friend’’ from Italy/USA, ‘’Her’’ from USA, and ‘’1899’’ from (Germany/USA). I have a deep affection for genres like science fiction, psychological thrillers, dramas, and philosophical, as well as films that explore societal issues through artistic expression. I am drawn to stories that are both creative and powerful, as they intrigue and captivate my interest. I believe that cinema has the potential to shed light on important societal matter and prompt meaningful conversations, ultimately contributing to the betterment of society as a whole.
What other actors, writers & producers inspire you?
There is an abundance of talented directors, writers, producers, and actors in the industry. I am consistently amazed by their creativity and skill, and I deeply admire the hard work and genuine passion that they bring to their craft. It’s evident in their work, and it’s what sets them apart. Each one of us possesses unique skills, creativity, and a distinctive approach to our work, which is why I firmly believe that no one can replicate what we do. Our uniqueness and individuality are what inspire me. I have the utmost respect for individuals who work diligently and remain humble in their achievements. I do not have the patience for those who are narrow-minded and are driven by ego.
Is there one film or a specific moment in your life that made you want to work in film?
When I was young, my parents bought me a small, cute TV for my room so that I could watch movies anytime without having to fight for turns with anyone. They knew of my love for movies, especially those featuring Charlie Chaplin and the Marx Brothers. Back then, subtitles were not available, so I relied on the Marx Brothers and other programs where they conveyed humour through facial expressions and body language, which was enough for me to understand. Additionally, there were some movies with clear storylines that didn’t require subtitles, depending on what they brought to the table. As a Deaf person, I’ve come to value the power of visual storytelling. Those artists inspired me, and that’s when I knew I wanted to be like them as an actress. However, I never anticipated becoming a director, producer, or writing a film, let alone starting my own company. My life’s journey has been full of surprises. The lockdown pandemic has unlocked potential skills and talents in me that I’d never recognised before. I took a leap, explored my vision and work, and have been pursuing it ever since.
Your new film The Cycle sheds light on important issues – please can you tell me a little more about the film and what inspired you to make it?
My latest project, “The Cycle” was born out of a desire to challenge existing stereotypes and offer a fresh perspective on Deaf individuals in the world of cinema. I noticed that roles for Deaf individuals often portrayed them as vulnerable or innocent characters, lacking depth, and complexity, which, in my view, was overly sympathetic. I wanted to challenge this stereotype. My aim with “The Cycle” was to showcase that Deaf individuals are no different from their hearing counterparts when it comes to the breadth of human experiences. We can be anything, just like anyone else. The only difference is our hearing status, that’s it. I hope that through this film, we can change the perspectives of directors and casting directors, encouraging them to offer diverse roles to Deaf actors across various genres. To give them challenging characters on the TV and in other fields. There is an abundance of talented Deaf individuals waiting for an opportunity to shine in the industry. Moreover, I aimed to shed light on ‘’The Cycle”, it delves into the harsh realities of the Deaf community, where communication barriers often exacerbate their struggles.
When it comes to issues like domestic violence, Deaf individuals face difficulties in obtaining immediate support due to these communication barriers. Regrettably, abusers frequently escape justice because the police tend to listen to their voices. Why? Because abusers have the power of speech, and they know that Deaf people do not. This power dynamic is exploited by abusers, who manipulate and brainwash their victims. Various forms of abuse, including physical and verbal, are inflicted upon them. This systemic issue often results in victims feeling silenced and hopeless, further perpetuating the cycle of abuse. Tragically, some Deaf victims seek ways to escape abusive relationships, but in some cases, it’s too late. They pay the ultimate price, losing their lives. This is a grave concern. Additionally, their mental health becomes unstable, and they lose their sense of self.
It’s difficult for them to return to the person they once were due to prolonged abuse. It’s important to note that these challenges are compounded for Deaf individuals who belong to minority ethnic communities. They often experience different treatment by the police compared to their Deaf white counterparts, adding another layer of complexity to their struggles.
If you had to make a ‘bucket list’ of people you’d love to work with, tell me one name who would be on it?
For me, I would absolutely love to collaborate with talented actors and directors who are not only creatively gifted but also open-minded when it comes to working with me as a Deaf person. I would love to work with include Viola Davis, Jordan Peele, Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, and Oriol Paulo, and many other exceptionally talented individuals out there. I believe that a diverse and inclusive creative environment can lead to the most innovative and compelling storytelling.
What’s next for you Vilma?
My future plans involve continuing to create more films and engaging in various creative projects. I’m the kind of person who goes with the flow, drawing inspiration from what I encounter in life and bringing those inspirations to life in my work. While I don’t have specific projects mapped out for the future, I believe in taking my time and allowing my creativity to flourish without the constraints of rigid planning or external pressure. This approach has often led to some of my most innovative and authentic work, and I look forward to seeing where my creative journey takes me.
frompage2screen.com 