We’ve been talking with some of Hauntology’s crew to learn more about their background, their favorite films, and what makes them tick. Today we’re talking with one of our Chicago producers, Catherine Clark.
What’s your background?
I grew up with movies and have always considered them a key part of who I am (my wedding was even movie-themed). So finding fellow cinephiles like the Hauntology team is a true joy.
I have a BFA from Illinois Wesleyan University and carved out a career in writing and design. I currently lead a team of writers and editors in the consumer wellness media space. I’ve always been a narrative storyteller and have written and adapted a number of screenplays, mostly sitting in virtual drawers. In addition to producing Hauntology, I’ve written and am currently producing a short film in the lo-fi sci-fi genre.
What do you look for in a film you’d want to produce?
I love to discover authentic human-centered stories from people, communities, and cultures not often seen in cinema. Film can be profoundly empowering in the hands of people who have a story that can pull us away from our standard templates. The more filmgoers are exposed to stories that are outside of their lived experience, the more we grow as empathetic humans.
What filmmakers and creators do you think are really innovating in the world of film and TV?
This list could be vast, but the shortlist includes Bong Joon-ho, Dee Rees, Jordan Peele, Ana Lily Amirpour, The Daniels, Shane Carruth, Greta Gerwig, and Céline Sciamma.
Many of my most riveted hours have been spent watching the films of those talented filmmakers.
What are some of your favorite films (indie or mainstream)?
You can find lots of my faves over on Letterboxd, but a quick glance includes:
- Parasite
- Get Out
- Memento
- What We Do in the Shadows
- Amelie
- Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
- Her
- Whiplash
- Midsommar
- Ex Machina
- Knives Out
- Ghost World
- The Princess Bride
- Portrait of a Lady on Fire
Who is a dream filmmaker or actor you’d want to work with?
If I ever found myself watching Jennifer Coolidge, Dawn French, or Jennifer Saunders improvising on set, my life would be made.
What’s your favorite scary movie?
Get Out tops my list, with honorable mentions to Nightmare on Elm Street, Us, Let the Right One In, Midsommar, Ready or Not, Rosemary’s Baby, The Shining, Happy Death Day, and most recently Bodies, Bodies, Bodies, which I absolutely inhaled.
You can follow Catherine on Letterboxd, Instagram and get on her email list for film updates.
Stay tuned for more Q&As from other talented members of our cast and crew.
