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Meet the Filmmaker: Maureen Maloney, “Transitions”

Q: Why did you become a filmmaker?
MM: At the time I chose to pursue filmmaking I was actually in grad school studying biology. Several of my mentors were pushing the idea that there needed to be more science communicators, and it resonated with me. I was watching a lot of documentaries, and really felt like it was THE way to educate people. Then I met another female grad student who was making a documentary, and it hit me that it was something I could do. After that I served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Madagascar, and my interests became more human rights focused.

Q: What are we going to see at the EFP? Has it screened elsewhere and what are your plans for it?
MM: Transitions is a short documentary about Miriam Suzanne, a trans woman, and her experience going through the bureaucratic steps of legal transition. It premiered online as part of the America Heard webseries, which aims to show the diversity of political perspectives around the US.

Q: What else are you working on?
MM: I’m currently a grad student at the University of Denver in the International and Intercultural Communication program, and complete my degree in June. I am shooting a documentary about a local tattoo artist as part of a Documentary Production class with Sheila Schroeder.

Q: Tell us one weird thing about you and/or your movies?
MM: My first job as a camera person was a complete disaster. I bought my first video camera after taking a 4-day filmmaking bootcamp. Before I even opened the box a friend had recommended me to someone, and I was immediately hired to shoot National Geographic Adventurer-of-the-year Andrew Skurka at the end of his 6,875 mile hike around the western US. Unfortunately I had to hike with Andy a few days, and he was in such better shape than me. I was dying, and I missed some important footage without realizing it. The person who hired me was really angry and mean to me. I’m glad to say that he has since forgiven me and apologized.

Q: Where can people go to find out more about you and your work?
MM: MaureenLeeMaloney.com

Q: Is there anything you’d like to say about The Emerging Filmmakers Project?
MM: I’m so grateful to EFP for providing this opportunity for new filmmakers like me to show our work, get feedback, and see other work being done. The Denver film community is so welcoming and supportive, but it can still be daunting to put yourself out there. The EFP really helps.

Transitions will screen at The Emerging Filmmakers Project on Thursday, April 20th at The Bug Theatre.