Filmmaker Statement

I have always been fascinated by the influence our childhood has on us and how it not only shapes us, but also the mechanism s in our subsequent lives. Like Esra, both screenwriter Nena van Driel and I, had to learn as children to deal with roles that changed in our family, responsibilities that were forced upon us and the fear that accompanies that sometimes. As a child it is sometimes difficult to put confusing emotions into words and they start brewing inside. And so, just like Esra, I also started telling lies one day. Without a plan, without premeditation. Eventually the lies started to drag me down and just like Esra has to face her lies in the film, I had to do the same. The subconscious world of a child where fears and desires meet and intertwine, is beautiful to explore and depict — in my eyes.