Through an assured lens, Cinematographer and Director   Molly Manning Walker boasts an impressive body of work centering human stories.

With her Cannes-winning debut, “How to Have Sex,” she’s taken us on an intimate journey into teenage life and friendships.

How to have Sex will be out in Australian cinemas nationally on March 7

Trigger warning for consent and sexual assault.

Resources:

AUS

1800 RESPECT

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sexual-assault-and-abuse-helplinesUK

https://www.thehavens.org.uk/
https://www.thesurvivorstrust.org/

US

National Sexual Assault Hotline:
(800) 656-HOPE
WWW.RAINN.ORG

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Summary

Cinematographer and director Molly Manning Walker discusses her Cannes award-winning film ‘How to Have Sex’ and the importance of addressing sensitive topics. She highlights the role of female executives in supporting and championing diverse stories. Molly also shares her personal experiences and the need for open conversations about assault. She emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment on set, and the directorial choices made to portray assault with care. The film’s lead actress, Mia McKennar, is praised for her talent and positive energy. Molly discusses the challenges of coordinating party scenes and balancing the highs and lows of the film’s storytelling. She hopes the film will promote better conversations about sex and reduce shame and assault. The dynamics between older characters and the ambiguity of life are explored, and Molly recommends pairing the film with the original ‘Lion King’ for some fun and joy.

Takeaways

  • Female executives play a crucial role in supporting diverse stories and getting films made.
  • Open conversations about assault are necessary to reduce shame and create a better future.
  • Creating a safe and supportive environment on set is essential when dealing with sensitive topics.
  • Portraying sensitive subjects through the eyes of characters can be more impactful than explicit visuals.
  • Balancing the highs and lows of storytelling is a challenge, but it adds depth to the film’s narrative.
  • Promoting better conversations about sex can lead to less shame, better experiences, and reduced assault.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Cannes Award
01:02 Importance of Female Executives
03:19 Confronting Uncomfortable Topics
04:17 Creating a Safe Environment on Set
04:46 Directorial Choices and Portrayal of Assault
05:40 Working with Mia McKennar
06:36 Coordinating Party Scenes
08:01 Balancing the Highs and Lows of the Film
09:28 Character Dynamics and Ambiguity
11:27 Promoting Better Sex and Conversations
11:57 Dynamics with Older Characters
12:24 Double Feature Recommendation
12:52 Conclusion