Anna takes a deep dive into Disney’s recent projects, exploring how far they’ve come in terms of female representation and diversity. 

Critic Larushka Ivan-Zadeh feels right at home discussing all things Disney and Pixar. She tracks the evolution of Disney princesses and celebrates the multiple complex female characters of Raya and the Last Dragon. From warriors to wretches, the discussion turns to Cruella. Anna and Larushka share their thoughts on the new villainous origin story, the female rivalry at the centre of the film, and the brilliant performances from Emma Stone, Emma Thompson, and a cast of canines! Larushka also gives a review of the new horror film A Quiet Place Part II.

Next up, screenwriters Adele Lim and Osnat Shurer explain what it means to them to create Disney’s first Southeast Asian warrior-princess. They talk about developing the movie with positive gender representation in mind, including the decision to have multiple leading female characters. They also pinpoint why representation behind the scenes is so important to onscreen diversity. 

Finally, the Director of Disney’s new Launchpad initiative, Mahin Ibrahim, joins Anna to offer an exclusive insight into how this new programme is aiming to bring to light underrepresented stories. American listeners stay tuned for some exciting opportunities!

Other TV & Movie mentions: Snow White, Enola Holmes, Wonder Woman 1984, Frozen, Fleabag, Beauty and the Beast.

Become a patron of Girls on Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast
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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z
Girls On Film is an HLA production. Executive producer: Hedda Archbold. Audio Producer: Emma Butt. Principal Partner: Peter Brewer. Assistant Producer and Social Media Manager: Heather Dempsey. Assistant Producer: Elliana Jay.

Ep 79: Disney, diversity & evolution of the princess + reviews of Cruella & A Quiet Place Part II

Will James Bond ever be a woman? Non binary? A person of colour? The producer of the Bond series reveals all in the 100th episode of Girls On Film, an industry special in partnership with No Time to Die. Powerhouse Barbara Broccoli joins Anna to discuss her work on the franchise, talking about the importance of cinema and community, the exciting roles for women in No Time to Die and Barbara’s love of Daniel Craig as a Bond who shows emotional vulnerability. Barbara also explains why she thinks women make particularly excellent producers, the structures that Eon Productions have in place to support women, and the advances in the industry that have come about as a result of Time's Up. 
Following Barbara’s amazing insights, Anna sits in the guest chair for the first time and is interviewed by the super Sally Phillips and Ronni Ancona. Anna talks about the shifts she has seen in the film criticism world both over her career and Girls On Film’s lifetime and reveals a very special announcement! Sally and Ronni also give an overview of what they have been working on and how the last couple of years have influenced their bravery with screenwriting. Stay tuned for episode 101. 
You can own the No Time to Die 2-disc collectors edition on DVD, blu-ray and 4k ultra-HD from the 20th of December 2021. There is bonus content about the action, stunts, location, sets and costumes. 
Become a patron of Girls on Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast 
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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z 

Girls On Film is an HLA production. Executive producer: Hedda Archbold. Audio Producer: Ben Cook. This episode was produced in partnership with No Time to Die. Interns: Rosa Herxheimer and Shanaiya Pithiya.

Ep 100 Exclusive: Barbara Broccoli talks Bond, feminism and the future of 007

Anna Smith is joined by two fantastic actresses and now directors, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Rebecca Hall, to discuss their daring directorial debuts: The Lost Daughter and Passing. Anna is also joined by the star of Passing, Ruth Negga. 

First up, Maggie discusses the central themes of motherhood and growth in The Lost Daughter, starring Olivia Colman, Dakota Johnson and Dagmara Dominczyk. Maggie reveals that her main goal was to portray honesty and authenticity; to create a space on screen where the audience would be able to see themselves reflected back at them, with every aspect feeling genuine, rather than a glamorised fantasy. Anna and Maggie then delve into the incredible cast of The Lost Daughter. Maggie talks about her mentality as an actress and choosing the women brave enough to learn something new about themselves.

Next up, Anna is joined by the director and writer of Passing, Rebecca Hall, along with Ruth Negga, who co stars with Tessa Thompson. The film explores racial “passing” and has a fascinating and complicated female friendship at its core. 
As an actress herself, Rebecca discusses what made her turn to directing and why she wanted to tell this incredible story about the moral consequences of racial passing. It’s based on the 1929 novel by Nella Larsen, a book that has a personal resonance for Rebecca, who reveals a family connection to the story. While the film is centred on Ruth Negga’s character, Clare, hiding her true racial identity, Rebecca reveals that her directorial intention was to go deeper than that, by examining the psychological cost of living in any kind of hiding. Ruth Negga goes on to talk about some of the touching audience reactions and discusses how the story holds relevance in today’s society, whether it's to do with race, gender, queerness or any other form of identity. 

Both The Lost Daughter and Passing are available to stream on Netflix now. 

Become a patron of Girls on Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast  
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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel:  
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z 


Girls On Film is an HLA production. 

Host: Anna Smith. Executive producer: Hedda Archbold. Audio producer: Benjamin Cook. Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer. Intern: Shanaiya Pithiya. House band: MX Tyrants.

Ep 105: Maggie Gyllenhaal talks about The Lost Daughter + Rebecca Hall & Ruth Negga discuss Passing

In this episode of Girls On Film, Anna Smith highlights some feminist favourites from Sundance London Film Festival. She catches up with director Shuchi Talati, whose debut feature Girls Will Be Girls follows headgirl Mira (Preeti Panigrahi) as she strives to get As in the classroom and the bedroom, and struggles with a third-wheeling mother (Kani Kusruti). Anna is joined by Shuchi as well as lead actress Preeti Panigrahi as they reflect on women’s filmmaking in India, reveal how they tackled intimacy on set together, and share Shuchi’s initiative Undercurrent, a scheme to train women to work in the lighting department on film sets in India. 

Next up, Anna hears from the singer turned actress Maisy Stella, who stars opposite Aubrey Plaza in Megan Park’s My Old Ass. The pair chat about what attracted Maisy to the role of 18 year old Elliott, who meets her 39 year old self while tripping on magic mushrooms and has to deal with the consequences of knowing how her teenage decisions will impact her later life. Maisy recalls the refreshing nature of Park’s script, which portrays a queer lead without feeling tokenistic or trite. 

Finally, Anna chats to Vicky Krieps about starring in Viggo Mortensen’s new feminist western, The Dead Don’t Hurt. She talks with Anna about ‘becoming your own department’ when your co-star is also the director, and Viggo speaks about the inspiration behind the character of Vivienne. Vicky also dispels some of the myths of progress in the film industry, while acknowledging the importance of portraying women like Vivienne in The Dead Don’t Hurt in order to move towards a more feminist cinema, but also a more feminist film set. 

The Dead Don’t Hurt is in UK and Irish cinemas now.

Girls Will Be Girls will be in UK and Irish cinemas on 20 September 2024.

Follow Girls On Film on social media to see release updates for My Old Ass.

Other films mentioned: 

Flowervale Street (David Robert Mitchell)
The Fallout (Megan Park) 
Corsage (Marie Kreutzer)
Phantom Thread (Paul Thomas Anderson)
The Lord of the Rings (Peter Jackson)
Eastern Promises (David Cronenberg)
Falling (Viggo Mortensen) 

Find out more about Undercurrent below:
https://www.undercurrentfilmlab.com/ 

Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: 
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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z
Girls On Film is an HLA production.

Host: Anna Smith
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
Producer: Charlotte Matheson
Intern: Jade Evans
Audio editor: Jack Howard
House band: MX Tyrants

© HLA Agency

Ep 177: Feminist Filmmaking with Maisy Stella, Vicky Krieps, Viggo Mortensen, Shuchi Talati and more

Anna Smith speaks to director Susan Seidelman about her highly anticipated new memoir, Desperately Seeking Something, as well as Rosanna Arquette, who starred in Seidelman's 1985 cult classic, Desperately Seeking Susan.

Anna begins by speaking to Susan Seidelman about her memoir and her recollections of working with Madonna and Rosanna Arquette. Susan talks about the explosion of Madonna’s stardom during filming, sharing some of her cherished memories from that time. She reflects on the enduring cultural impact of Desperately Seeking Susan as well as more broadly on her career.

Next, Anna speaks to Rosanna Arquette about her memories of starring in Desperately Seeking Susan. Rosanna talks about the celebrated female friendship between her and Madonna’s much-loved characters in the film, and how that translated into their off-screen friendship, sharing some of her hilarious highlights of working with Madonna. Rosanna also talks about the Time’s Up movement, discussing her powerful allyship with the other women who were amongst the first to speak out against Harvey Weinstein, and sharing insights into the monumental impact that it had on her life.

Susan Seidelman’s memoir Desperately Seeking Something: A Memoir about Movies, Mothers, and Material Girls is published by Macmillan Publishers and is available online and in bookstores in the US, and through Amazon and Blackwells in the UK. 

UK Blackwells:
https://tinyurl.com/4xfnn8ud

UK Amazon:
https://tinyurl.com/2z6uakkt

US Macmillan:
https://tinyurl.com/3z8hnp9c

US Amazon:
https://tinyurl.com/26ub6sas

Trigger warning: The interview with Rosanna Arquette in this episode contains potentially upsetting conversations relating to Harvey Weinstein. This episode also contains very strong language.

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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z

Other films mentioned: 
Desperately Seeking Susan
Smithereens
After Hours
Basic Instinct
Thelma and Louise
Midnight Cowboy
The Graduate
Sex and the City
The Sopranos
She Devil
Baby It’s You
The Linguini Incident
Searching for Debra Winger

Ep 179: Desperately Seeking Susan with director Susan Seidelman and star Rosanna Arquette

In this episode, host Anna Smith transports listeners to the world of Wicked. She speaks with three key creatives behind this enchanting film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical.  
Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, bringing this iconic story of friendship, magic, and love to life on the big screen. 
Hair, Makeup, and Prosthetics Designer Frances Hannon discusses how she approached creating Elphaba’s iconic green look. Director of Photography Alice Brooks explains how she updated the technicolour dreamworld of Oz through the film’s cinematography. And, Costume Designer Paul Tazewell describes how he developed a ‘language of clothing’ to reflect the world and characters of Oz. 
The episode highlights the significant role that Hair and Makeup Design, Costume Design and Cinematography play in bringing the story of these two complex women to life. Listeners will get a glimpse into the artistry behind the film and the collaborative effort that makes Wicked both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
Wicked is in UK cinemas now, with part two coming next year. Let us know what you think on social media - tag Girls On Film and use the hashtag #WickedMovie.
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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z
Girls On Film is an HLA production.

Host: Anna Smith
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
Producer: Charlotte Matheson
Intern: Anna Swartz
Audio editor: Emma Butt
House band: MX Tyrants

This episode is in partnership with Universal Pictures 

© HLA Agency


Ep 187: Crafting Wicked - behind the magic with Alice Brooks, Frances Hannon & Paul Tazewell


In this episode of Girls On Film, recorded at the 2025 Glasgow Film Festival, host Anna Smith is joined by co-founder and Executive Producer of the podcast, Hedda Lornie Archbold, to bring listeners exclusive interviews with some of the festival’s stars. They welcome insights from Festival Director Allison Gardner, star of opening gala film Tornado, Kōki, and two of the creative minds behind The Extraordinary Miss Flower. 

Allison Gardner talks about her highlights of her final year leading the Glasgow Film Festival. Kōki, the rising star of Tornado, opens up about her role as the daughter of a Japanese puppeteer in John Maclean’s thriller. And Emiliana Torrini and Caroline Catz dive into their work on The Extraordinary Miss Flower, a genre-blending love letter to love letters, set to Torrini’s dreamy soundtrack.

The Extraordinary Miss Flower will be released in the UK on 9 May 2025. Tornado will be available in cinemas from 23 May 2025.
Glasgow Film Festival 2025 runs from 26 February to 9 March 2025. For more information on screenings and tickets, visit the Glasgow Film Festival website https://www.glasgowfilm.org/home

March is International Women’s Month, and this year also marks the 20th Anniversary of Birds Eye View Festival, now Reclaim the Frame, a charity championing women filmmakers. The festival will host a Weekender from 7–9 March 2025 at BFI Southbank and Regent Street Cinema, featuring events, screenings, and a special showing of Lollipop, which featured in episode 181 of Girls On Film. 

For more details, visit reclaimtheframe.org.Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: 
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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z
Girls On Film is an HLA production.

Host: Anna Smith
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
Producer: Charlotte Matheson
Intern: Anna Swartz
Audio editor: Benjamin Cook 
House band: MX Tyrants
Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer

© HLA Agency



Ep 191: Kōki, Allison Gardner and The Extraordinary Miss Flower at Glasgow Film Festival 2025

In this special episode recorded at the Glasgow Film Festival, Jessica Lange joins Girls On Film host Anna Smith to reflect on her extraordinary career across stage and screen. She discusses her latest film, Long Day’s Journey Into Night, which premiered at the festival, and shares insights into her rural Minnesota upbringing, early years studying mime in Paris, and her upcoming role as Marlene Dietrich.

Jessica also revisits some of her most iconic roles, from portraying Frances Farmer in the heartbreaking biopic Frances to starring alongside Dustin Hoffman in the genre-defying comedy Tootsie. She also explores her more recent work on American Horror Story, which not only cemented her status as an acting legend but also introduced her to a new generation of fans. Beloved by Gen X and Gen Z alike, Jessica’s performances continue to captivate audiences across film, television and stage.

Acclaimed as one of the greatest actresses of her generation, Jessica is the 15th Oscar winner to appear on Girls On Film.

The conversation was recorded on 1 March 2025. 

http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up.

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www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z
Girls On Film is an HLA production.

Host: Anna Smith
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
Producer: Charlotte Matheson
Intern: Anna Swartz
Audio editor: Alex Jones
House band: MX Tyrants
Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer

© HLA Agency

Ep 192: Jessica Lange on Marlene Dietrich, Minnesota and mime

In this star-studded episode, Anna Smith and co-founder Hedda Lornie Archbold delve into two exciting new films led by complex and captivating women.
First, Anna chats with Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Geraldine Viswanathan, stars of Thunderbolts*—the latest Marvel Cinematic Universe film. Together, they discuss their first meeting, stepping into a superhero world alongside Florence Pugh and bringing depth and humour to their roles.
Then, Hedda speaks with producer Rosie Fellner and actor Elizabeth Reaser about The Uninvited—a darkly funny and deeply poignant film that explores gender, aging, and identity in Hollywood. Reaser portrays Rose, a once-famous actress whose life is upended by a mysterious guest at a glamorous Hollywood gathering. The film also stars Walton Goggins, Lois Smith, Eva De Dominici, Pedro Pascal, and Rufus Sewell, and is writer-director Nadia Conners’ debut feature.
Thunderbolts* landed in UK cinemas 1 May 2025
The Uninvited is in UK cinemas 9 May 2025

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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z
Girls On Film is an HLA production.

Host: Anna Smith
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
Producer: Charlotte Matheson
Intern: Hattie Morris
Audio editor: Benjamin Cook
House band: MX Tyrants
Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer

© HLA Agency


Ep 193: Thunderbolts* & The Uninvited with Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Geraldine Viswanathan, Elizabeth Reaser & Rosie Fellner

Host Anna Smith brings you an exclusive conversation with the women of Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, recorded live at London’s Ham Yard Hotel. This latest instalment in the high-octane Mission: Impossible franchise sees Ethan Hunt and the IMF team race against time to confront the Entity, a rogue artificial intelligence threatening global destruction.
Joining Anna for this special panel are two talents at the heart of the action: Pom Klementieff, who takes on the role of Paris, and Angela Bassett, returning as Erika Sloane, the President of the United States. Together, they delve into the challenges of working on one of cinema’s most physically demanding franchises, explore the critical role costume design plays in shaping their characters, and reflect on the powerful, real-world impact of casting a Black woman as the US president in a fictional universe.
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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z
Girls On Film is an HLA production.

Host: Anna Smith
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
Producer: Charlotte Matheson
Intern: Anna Swartz
Audio editor: Alex Jones
Sound recordist: Erin Millican 
House band: MX Tyrants

This episode is in partnership with Netflix

© HLA Agency


Ep 194: Women on a Mission with Angela Bassett and Pom Klementieff

We’re back in the French Riviera for a very special episode, as Girls On Film returns to the 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival.

This year, host Anna Smith welcomed guests to the second Girls On Film Cannes Do at The Members Club. This glamorous networking event on the beach brought together filmmakers, critics, and creatives celebrating the power of women in cinema. In this episode, you’ll hear reflections from our community on what Girls On Film means to them.

Later on in the episode Anna reunites with film journalist Wendy Ide who reflects on this year’s films, which she says have been of a consistently high standard. Wendy shares her standout picks from the festival, from the fiercely divisive Die, My Love, a visceral exploration of the raw edges of motherhood and mental unravelling, to Sound of Falling, a haunting meditation on how trauma echoes through time and place. She also dives into Sirât, an allegorical road movie, in which gender and disability are refreshingly incidental, not defining. Plus other titles that are already generating serious awards buzz. 

And finally, we’re joined by Liza van der Smissen and Nicole Lieberman, founders of the Female Film Club. This trailblazing global network uplifts women in the industry through practical workshops, seminars and a thriving, supportive community. They share the story behind their mission and how they’re helping to reshape the future of film, one powerful connection at a time. 

They also unveil an exciting new opportunity: a £10,000 investment in a short film, designed to give back to their talented global community. To enter from 16th June onwards, filmmakers must join their networking space. 

If you’re looking to join a space that champions and supports women in film, don’t miss out – click this link to join the Female Film Club: [link: https://female-film-club.mn.co/users/onboarding/choose_plan?plan_id=1818474&bundle_token=aca8b4a8f139016aca1a9fdc680a97a8&utm_source=manual]

We would also like to thank our incredible sponsors for all their support: 
Col Needham and Karen Needham at IMDb: [link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt18211920/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_3_tt_8_nm_0_in_0_q_girls%2520on%2520film]
Clare Bateman-King at Lilac Grove Entertainment: [https://lilacgrove.com/]
JoJo Dye at JJD Consultancy:  [link: https://jjdconsultancy.com/]
Jane Owen at Jane Owen PR: [https://janeowenpr.com/]
The House of Oria: [https://www.thehouseoforia.com/]
Sunny Pal at Astella: [https://www.instagram.com/astellajewellery/?hl=en]
HLA Agency: [https://hlaagency.co.uk/]

Films mentioned in this episode: 

Die, My Love, Lynne Ramsay
Eleanor the Great, Scarlett Johansson
The History of Sound, Oliver Hermanus
Mastermind, Kelly Reichardt
My Father’s Shadow, Akinola Davies
Pillion, Harry Lighton
Romería, Carla Simón
Sirât, Oliver Laxe
Sorry Baby, Eva Victor
Sound of Falling, Mascha Schilinski
The Secret Agent, Kleber Mendonça Filho

Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. 

Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast 

Follow us on socials: 
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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: 
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z 

Girls On Film is an HLA production. 

Host: Anna Smith
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold, who also produced this episode
Audio Editor: Benjamin Cook
Intern: Hattie Morris
Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer

© HLA Agency

Ep 195: Cannes Special 2025: Trailblazing women at the Festival, with Wendy Ide & Female Film Club

Host Anna Smith brings you a special episode of Girls On Film from the Mediterrane Film Festival in Malta, which this year celebrates 100 years of movie-making on the island.
From Malta, Anna speaks with producer Susan Simnett, known for Brides, Chuck Chuck Baby, and Fadhia’s Tree. She also chats to Euphoria star Barbie Ferreira, who received this year’s Rising Star Award, and BAFTA-winning actor Monica Dolan, who presented at the festival’s Golden Bee Awards.
Back in the UK, broadcaster, film, TV and culture critic Ashanti Omkar joins Anna to discuss three powerful new films: Daisy-May Hudson and Sophie Compton’s documentary Holloway, Athina Rachel Tsangari’s medieval drama Harvest, and Claude Barras’s stop-motion animation Savages.
Harvest will be coming to UK cinemas on 18 July 2025.
Keep an eye out for upcoming screenings of Holloway with Reclaim the Frame - championing intersectional feminist cinema across the UK. Check out their website for more details 
Savages will be released in the UK and Ireland on 1 August 2025.
Find out more about  the Mediterrane Film Festival on their website https://mediterrane.com/  
Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/
Or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up.
Visit our new website www.girlsonfilm.org.uk 
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Follow us on socials:
 www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/
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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel:
 www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z
Girls On Film is an HLA production.
 Host: Anna Smith
 Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
 Producer: Charlotte Matheson
 Audio Editor: Cam Griffiths
 Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer
 © HLA Agency


Ep 196: Barbie Ferreira and more in Malta + Holloway, Harvest and Savages Reviewed

We switch from movies to the stage to talk about SING STREET: THE MUSICAL. Anna speaks with iconic producer Barbara Broccoli about her approach in adapting the film into a stage show. Barbara came on our 100th episode of Girls On Film to talk about her work, the Time's Up movement, and No Time To Die. As well as producing the Bond films at Eon Productions, she has produced female-led movies such as Film Stars Don't Die In Liverpool, Nancy, Till, and Blue Road: The Edna O'Brien Story. 
Anna also chats with the show’s director, Rebecca Taichman, about approaching the correct tone and staging for the show. Rebecca is one of only six women to win the TONY Award for Best Direction of a Play, which she took home in 2017 for "INDECENT," by Paula Vogel. With a diverse repertoire spanning Shakespeare, contemporary plays, opera, and musicals, Taichman is a visionary director who enjoys conceiving of and co-creating new work. 
We're also joined by John Carney who is known for music-led films such as Once and Begin Again, and who directed and co-wrote the original feature film Sing Street.
SING STREET: THE MUSICAL is running from July 8 - August 23 2025 at the Hammersmith Theatre, London. Check out the website for more details: https://lyric.co.uk/shows/sing-street/ . Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter here:  http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ . Or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up.
Visit our new website www.girlsonfilm.org.uk Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here:www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast 
Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast / www.facebook.com/ girlsonfilmpodcast /  
https://bsky.app/profile/girlsonfilmpodcast.bsky.social
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Watch Girls On Film on the BFl's YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX...L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z 
Girls On Film is an HLA production. 
Host: Anna Smith 
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold 
Producer: Charlotte Matheson 
Audio Editor: Emma Butt. 
This episode is supported by Lilac Grove Entertainment.
Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer 
© HLA Agency


Ep 197: Barbara Broccoli on Sing Street: The Musical with Rebecca Taichman + John Carney

Host Anna Smith is joined by PAST LIVES director Celine Song to talk about her new star-studded film, MATERIALISTS. Lucy (Dakota Johnson) works as a match-maker struggling to balance financial expectations with love. Celine discusses being a feminist filmmaker, her own match-making career, and the struggle of universal loneliness. She also gives some personal advice to young women in film.

Anna then speaks to Jasmin Gordon about her directorial debut THE COURAGEOUS, which follows a rebellious mother living on the edge of society who fights to keep her family together. Jasmin talks about the impact of her childhood on the film, pressure on women and mothers, and rebellion in current times. Jasmin also reveals exclusive information about her next feature film.

MATERIALISTS is in UK and Irish cinemas from August 13, 2025.
THE COURAGEOUS is comes to UK and Irish cinemas September 5, 2025. 
MOTHERBOARD releases August 15 2025.

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Girls On Film is an HLA production.
 Host: Anna Smith
 Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
 Producer: Charlotte Matheson
Intern: Ruby Bradshaw
 Audio Editor: Emma Butt
 Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer
 © HLA Agency


Ep 199: Feminist Filmmaking with Celine Song on Materialists and Jasmin Gordon on The Courageous

On this episode of Girls On Film, Anna Smith speaks with the creative teams behind two strikingly different films, both exploring relationships, emotion, and identity.

First, she sits down with Emma Thompson to discuss DEAD OF WINTER, a tense new thriller directed by Brian Kirk. Thompson stars as Barb, a widow caught in a deadly snowstorm in northern Minnesota. They talk about stepping into this high-stakes role, balancing action with emotion, the challenges of filming, and the layered relationship between Barb and her late husband.

Later, Anna is joined by filmmaker Sophie Dupuis to talk about her Canadian romantic drama SOLO. Together, they explore the inspiration behind the story, the filmmaking process, and the themes at its core.

SOLO, which is described as “a shower of glitter,” tells the story of Simon, an emerging Montreal drag queen caught between a destructive love affair and a long-awaited, complicated reunion with his mother. With the most queer cast ever assembled in a Canadian production, the film embraces queerness not as conflict, but as community, perspective, and joy.

SOLO is out now in UK cinemas, go to Solofilm.co.uk for info on where to see the film whenever you are listening to this podcast

DEAD OF WINTER will be released in UK and Irish cinemas from 26th September.

This episode is in partnership with Peccadillo Pictures.

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Girls On Film is an HLA production.
 Host: Anna Smith
 Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
Producer: Negin Nia
Audio Editor: Elliana Jay Hamer
This episode is in part-partnership with Peccadillo Pictures  
Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer
Sponsored by Lilac Grove Entertainment

 © HLA Agency

Ep 201: Emma Thompson in Dead of Winter and Sophie Dupuis on Solo

On this episode of Girls On Film, Anna Smith sits down with the creative team behind the British-Italian film BRIDES, which is the directorial debut of Nadia Fall. They discuss teenage friendship, the inspirations and themes that shaped the story, and they touch on the international collaboration behind the production.

BRIDES follows two British Muslim teenagers, Doe and Muna, as they leave the UK for Syria in search of freedom, belonging, and purpose. Inspired by real events, the film offers a sensitive and gripping look at identity, friendship, and the search for meaning in complex circumstances.

Joining Anna for a live Q&A panel are actor Safiyya Ingar (Muna in the film), writer Suhayla El-Bushra, and producer Nicky Bentham. They reflect on the inspiration behind the film, casting choices, and the emotional journey of bringing such an intense and thought-provoking story to life.

Thanks to Vue Lumière for partnering with us on this episode.

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 www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z

Girls On Film is an HLA production.

 Host: Anna Smith
 Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
 Producer: Negin Nia
 Intern: Ruby Bradshaw
 Audio Editor: Emma Butt

 Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer

 © HLA Agency

Ep 202: Exploring Brides with Nadia Fall, Safiyya Ingar, Suhayla El-Bushra, and Nicky Bentham

This episode of Girls On Film is dedicated to BAFTA and Oscar contender, THE SECOND TIME AROUND.

The film tells a complex, sensitive, universal story, and you can watch it on Channel 4 now.

Anna talks to the two stars of the film: 

Caroline Goodall, best known for films like The Princess Diaries with Anne Hathaway, and her two collaborations with Steven Spielberg, in Hook alongside Robin WIlliams - and in Schindler’s List.

And Hannah Onslow, who featured alongside Olivia Colman in Empire of Light directed by Sam Mendes, and starred in the BBC’s This City Is Ours alongside Sean Bean. Hannah can currently be seen in Noah Baumbach’s new film Jay Kelly.

Anna also talks to the writer and director, Jack Howard, and to executive producer Hedda Lornie Archbold, who also exec produces this podcast.
And finally Anna talks to Rita Hirani, the CEO of MindOut, the mental health charity for the LGBTQ community, who proudly partner with The Second Time Around.

Olivia Colman said: “It’s a haunting and captivating short that lingers long after it ends. It unsettles you at first, then reveals an unexpected tenderness. An extraordinary depth of story told in just ten minutes."

Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. 

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Girls On Film is an HLA production. 

Host: Anna Smith
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold, who also produced this episode
Intern: Ruby Bradshaw
Principal Partners Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer
Thanks to our sponsors for this episode, Lilac Grove Entertainment.


© HLA Agency

Ep 203: Caroline Goodall and Hannah Onslow explore love and loss in The Second Time Around

In this special live episode of Girls On Film, host Anna Smith sits down with the creative team behind HEDDA, the daring new film from acclaimed director Nia DaCosta, also known for CANDYMAN and THE MARVELS.

Recorded live on 13 October 2025 at Picturehouse Central, this Q&A follows a screening of HEDDA - a bold and contemporary reimagining of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play Hedda Gabler. The film follows the daughter of a general as she navigates a home she never wanted, a marriage that confines her, and the haunting return of a former lover.

Joining Anna on stage are director Nia DaCosta and cast members Tessa Thompson, Nina Hoss, and Imogen Poots, who discuss the film’s exploration of race and gender, as well as the creative process of reinventing one of literature’s most complex and fascinating women for modern audiences.

HEDDA is in UK cinemas as of 24 October 2025, and on Prime Video globally on 29 October 2025

Thank you to Amazon MGM Studios for partnering with us on this episode.

Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast

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 www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z

Girls On Film is an HLA production.

Host: Anna Smith
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
Producer: Negin Nia
Intern: Ruby Bradshaw
Podcast Cover Image: Amy Webster
Audio Editor: Elliana Jay Hamer

 © HLA Agency

Ep 205: Tessa Thompson, Nia DaCosta, Nina Hoss & Imogen Poots on gender and race in the film Hedda

In this episode of Girls On Film, host Anna Smith speaks with two phenomenal women whose new films explore resilience, justice, and the power of female storytelling.

First, Anna catches up with acclaimed actor Samantha Morton, known for her unforgettable performances in In America, Movern Callar, and She Said. 

Samantha discusses her role as Nessa in ANEMONE,  a haunting drama following two estranged brothers reuniting in the wilds of Northern England, written and directed by Ronan Day-Lewis. She also reflects with Anna on her career choices and shares her thoughts on gender in film.

ANEMONE is released in UK cinemas on 7 November 2025.

Then Anna talks with Dolores Fonzi, the celebrated Argentinian actor, director, and co-writer of BELÉN, Argentina’s official submission for the 2025 International Feature Oscar. 

BELÉN tells the moving story of women uniting to fight injustice, inspired by true events surrounding a young woman falsely accused of infanticide. Dolores discusses the film’s real-life origins, her transition to directing, and how the movement for reproductive rights continues to shape the political landscape in Argentina today.

BELÉN is released in select UK cinemas from 7 November 2025, and available on Prime Video from 14 November. 

This episode is in part-partnership with Amazon MGM Studios.

Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: 
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 www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z

 Girls On Film is an HLA production
 Host: Anna Smith
 Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
 Producer: Negin Nia
 Interns: Chloe Fonge and Ruby Bradshaw
 Audio Editor: Benjamin Cook 
 Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer

 © HLA Agency

Ep 206: Samantha Morton on ANEMONE & Dolores Fonzi on BELÉN: Women, Justice, and Storytelling

In this episode of Girls On Film, Anna Smith takes you out of the studio and straight to the sunny shores of Mallorca! 

Recorded live at the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival, Anna hosts a Girls On Film panel on Women in Leadership, featuring a talented group of women shaping the industry with creativity and vision.

Joining Anna on stage are filmmaker Alex Burunova, whose psychological drama SATISFACTION explores the delicate bond between composers Lola and Philip; BAFTA-nominated producer Sarah Brocklehurst, founder of Brock Media and known for THE OUTRUN; and Abi Harris, founder of Altitude Management, who helps artists take their creative projects to new heights.

Anna also catches up with acclaimed actor Maria Dragus, known for THE WHITE RIBBON and MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS, who was in the audience at the Girls On Film panel. 

A huge thank you to Sandra, Maria, Vicka, and the wonderful team at Evolution Mallorca! We are already counting down to see what they have in store for next year. Do keep an eye out for dates.

Learn more about Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival here: https://www.evolutionfilmfestival.com/ 

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 www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z

Girls On Film is an HLA Agency production.
 Host: Anna Smith
 Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
 Producer: Negin Nia
 Intern: Chloe Fonge 
Audio Editor: Benjamin Cook 
 Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer 

 © HLA Agency

Ep 207: Women Who Lead: our Power Panel at Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival

In this live episode of Girls On Film, host Anna Smith sits down with the extraordinary women behind THE THING WITH FEATHERS, a moving new feature film adapted from Max Porter’s award-winning novel.

Recorded at an exclusive Girls On Film screening of the film on 18 November at Vue West End in London, Anna speaks with:
Lucy Sullivan: artist, author, and comic book creator
Nicola Hicks: acclaimed sculptor and designer of Crow
Leah Clarke: one of producers with THE THING WITH FEATHERS
Tahra Zafar: who worked on creature and costume effects

Together, they delve into the unique challenges women face in their respective fields, reflect on the artistic processes that shape their work, and celebrate the power of creative communities in sustaining and inspiring their careers.

Directed by Dylan Southern and starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Vinette Robinson, and David Thewlis, THE THING WITH FEATHERS is a lyrical exploration of love, loss, and the mysterious ways we heal.

A huge thank you to Vue Lumiere for partnering on this event, and to everyone who joined us for this live conversation.

THE THING WITH FEATHERS is released in select UK cinemas on 21 November 2025. 
Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast

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 www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z

Girls On Film is an HLA production.
 Host: Anna Smith
 Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
 Producer: Negin Nia
 Intern: Ruby Bradshaw
 Audio Editor: Jack Howard
 Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer
Podcast Cover: @charleston51 

 © HLA Agency




Ep 208: Crafting The Thing with Feathers – The Women Behind the Vision

In this episode of Girls On Film, we speak with Laura Mulvey, British feminist film theorist, filmmaker, and Patron of Girls On Film, who was awarded the prestigious BFI Fellowship in November. 

Laura has curated a selection of Big Screen Classics running throughout December 2025 at London’s BFI Southbank, featuring titles such as Morocco, Man with a Movie Camera, and Through the Olive Trees. A wonderful opportunity to revisit, or discover, these influential films.

And in the episode we introduce a new category in the 2026 Girls On Film Awards: The Girls On Film Award for Best Editing sponsored by DISAUTHORITY. 

Anna chats with Maria Shevtsova, Vice President of DISAUTHORITY and Head of DISAUTHORITY Originals, about the award category, and the exciting partnership. The 2026 awards will take place on February 2nd, and we’re delighted to celebrate this new addition.

Thank you to Lilac Grove Entertainment for partnering with us on this episode.

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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel:
 www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z

Girls On Film is an HLA production.

 Host: Anna Smith
 Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
 Producer: Negin Nia
 Intern: Ruby Bradshaw
 Audio Editor: Benjamin Cook 
 Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer

 © HLA Agency


Ep 209: Laura Mulvey on Feminist Filmmaking and her BFI Fellowship + Maria Shevtsova on Editing

Anna Smith goes behind the scenes on one of the biggest films of the year, and one of the biggest contenders in film awards season: WICKED:  FOR GOOD. 
This sequel to WICKED came to our cinema screens in late November and Anna is thrilled to sit down with four women who helped create both films, which are a key influence in shaping the lives of young viewers today. 

Anna talks first with Screenwriter Dana Fox and Casting Director Tiffany Little Canfield, and then with DOP Alice Brooks ASC, and Hair & Make-Up Designer Frances Hannon. They speak about collaboration, female empowerment, the intricacies of their jobs and about working with the whole crew, including director Jon M Chu and co-writer Winnie Holzman.

Tiffany, Alice and Frances were all shortlisted for the Oscars the day before this podcast was published.

This episode is in partnership with WICKED: FOR GOOD

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 www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z

Girls On Film is an HLA production.
Host: Anna Smith
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
Assistant Producer: Negin Nia
Intern: Tallulah Treadaway
Audio Editor Extraordinaire: Benjamin Cook
Thanks to Girls On Film principal partners Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer

 © HLA Agency

Ep 210: The Women behind WICKED: FOR GOOD talk collaboration, creativity and female empowerment

Kate Hudson joins Anna for an exclusive, in-depth conversation about her leading role in the film Song Sung Blue, an inspiring true story about a Neil Diamond tribute act, directed by Craig Brewer and co-starring Hugh Jackman. She shares the joys and challenges of taking on the role of Clare, a complex real-life character who has a dramatic journey.

Kate talks frankly about the film’s exploration of mental health, about the responsibilities of playing a real character, and about the importance of maintaining a happy film set: something she and Hugh Jackman both feel strongly about. 
She shares how the love story personally inspired her and gives the inside track on the song recordings. Having been Oscar-nominated for Almost Famous in 2000, Kate talks about being in the awards conversation in 2026 alongside actresses she adores. She also shares how she feels about body image and women ageing in Hollywood.  

This episode is in partnership with Song Sung Blue.

Song Sung Blue is in UK Cinemas now.

You can also hear Kate Hudson on episode 134 of Girls On Film, talking about Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery.

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Ep 211:  Kate Hudson on Song Sung Blue, resilience & embracing change. Does love conquer all?

Philippa Lowthorpe, the writer-director behind H is For Hawk, and the film’s star, Claire Foy, join Anna Smith to discuss the moving adaptation of Helen Macdonald’s hit memoir, co-starring Brendan Gleeson, Denise Gough, Lindsay Duncan and Sam Spruell. Philippa speaks frankly to Anna about the film’s poetic embodiment of the experience of grief, which produces a story that is both powerful and inspiring. Claire and Philippa discuss the process of collaboration, and consider how the on-set dynamics allowed for an element of freedom in Claire’s performance. Claire’s embodiment of Helen is represented beautifully by Philippa, whose documentary background informed her process of capturing the moment. No film made with live, wild animals is without its challenges, and Claire and Philippa speak to Anna about the incredible experience of working with hawks on set, Claire’s own personal reflections of working with them, and the intense, ethical falconry techniques and training involved. Finally, Philippa and Claire discuss bringing the role of Helen to life in all her messy complexity with the support of the film’s producer Dede Gardner.

This episode is in partnership with Lionsgate.
H is For Hawk is in select UK cinemas on 23 January.
Philippa Lowthorpe has also appeared on episodes 28 and 145 of Girls On Film, when she attended the Girls On Film Awards.

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 www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z

Girls On Film is an HLA production.

 Host: Anna Smith
 Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
 Intern: Ruby Bradshaw
 Audio Editor: Benjamin Cook
 Principal Partners: Peter Brewer and Vanessa Smith

 © HLA Agency


Ep 212: Claire Foy and Philippa Lowthorpe talk H is for Hawk and the joys of messy women on screen

This episode of Girls on Film is all about Frankenstein – and we’re ‘a-live’ onstage from our special Q&A screening of Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation with its Production Designer Tamara Deverell and costume designer Kate Hawley. Our host Anna Smith sits down with these two exceptionally talented female heads of department – both of whom have been BAFTA and Oscar nominated for their work on the film – to find out how they created this movie’s extraordinary visuals. It’s based on a classic tale, over 200 years old and first written by a teenage girl – the 18-year-old Mary Shelley. Del Toro’s new take has garnered 9 Oscar nominations and 8 BAFTA nominations. We’re giving you the low down from the women who helped bring it to life and up-to-date on the big screen. Plus they answer questions from you lovely Girls On Film listeners in our audience Q&A.

Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ Or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. 
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Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno 
Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z 
This episode of Girls On Film is in partnership with Netflix. 
Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast
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 www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z
Girls On Film is an HLA production.
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold 
Producer: Heather Dempsey 
Intern: Ruby Bradshaw
Audio editor: Jack Howard 
Host: Anna Smith
 © HLA Agency

Ep 213: How two women mastered the art of Frankenstein - with Tamara Deverell & Kate Hawley

On today's Girls on Film we’re getting conspiratorial with COVER-UP - a BAFTA-nominated documentary following the career of investigative journalist Seymour Hirsch. He was an expert at exposing government corruption and scandal in the United States, and this documentary has exclusive access to him. Co-director Laura Poitras will be giving Anna the story behind the story of this thrilling film. 

Laura has been three times Oscar nominated for My Country, My Country, All The Beauty and The Bloodshed, and Citizenfour—for which she won. Alongside her co-director Mark Obenhaus, she's putting another gripping story onscreen here. We talk career inspirations, the art of the expose, and how being underestimated can be a woman's secret weapon. 

This episode is in partnership with Netflix. 

Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ Or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. 

Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast 

Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno 

Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z 

Girls On Film is an HLA production.
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold 
Producer: Heather Dempsey 
Intern: Ruby Bradshaw
Audio editor: Alex Jones 
  Host: Anna Smith
© HLA Agency

Ep 214: Laura Poitras on Cover-Up, documentary success and exposing the CIA

In today’s on Girls On Film we’re unpacking The Perfect Neighbor - a powerful Netflix documentary that’s up for an Oscar and a BAFTA. 

It investigates the shooting of Ajike Owens, a mother of four who was beloved in her tight-knit community in Florida. Owen’s neighbour shot her in 2023, after a years-long campaign of harassment that sewed division in their shared neighbourhood. Using police body-cam footage, the documentary pieces together the events that led to this tragedy and asks important questions about what enabled it to happen. 

Anna sits down with its director and producer Geeta Gandbhir to talk about the making of this tough and urgent film, why its story needs to be brought to the screen, and how filmmaking like this can be a tool for social change. 

This episode is in partnership with Netflix. 

The Perfect Neighbor is on Netflix now.

Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ Or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. 

Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast 
Visit https://www.girlsonfilm.org.uk/ for more information about the podcast. 

Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast

Follow us on socials:
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Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z

Girls On Film is an HLA production.

Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold 
Producer: Heather Dempsey 
Intern: Ruby Bradshaw
Audio editor: Alex Jones 
 Host: Anna Smith
© HLA Agency


Ep 215: The Perfect Neighbor exclusive: director Geeta Gandbhir talks about her award-winning doc

This episode takes you right to the heart of the Girls On Film Awards 2026. The prestigious awards attract a glittering array of guests and shine a light on the remarkable achievements of women and non‑binary creatives across the film industry. 
Hosted by Girls On Film co‑founders Anna Smith and Hedda Lornie Archbold, the evening unfolds with inspiring speeches, and conversations with standout guests, showing us once more what brilliant things we can achieve if we stand together and lift each other up.  

Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter here: eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ 

Thanks to our wonderful presenters Ronni Ancona, Teanne Andrews, Sarah Niles, Lesley Sharp, Priya Kansara, Kerry Fox, Dame Twiggy Lawson, Hannah Onslow, Ita O’Brien, Col Needham, Maïwenn le Mouée, Blair Barnette, Meera Syal and Sally Phillips.

This episode also features Emilie Levienaise-Farrouch, Autumn Durald Arkapaw ASC, Zoe Mutter, Andrea Riseborough, Idil Ahmed, Posy Sterling, Daisy-May Hudson, Nadia Fall, Suhayla El-Bushra, Nicky Bentham, Geeta Gandbhir, Jessie Buckley, Ronkẹ Adékọluẹ́jọ́, Ann Akinjirin, Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor, John Maclean, Jon M. Chu, Tamara Deverell, Pippa Harris and Liza Marshall.

Thanks especially to the sponsors and partners who made the event possible:


CrewHQ 
DISAUTHORITY
EON Productions
IMDb
Intimacy on Set

Andrew Jose Salon
Astella Jewellers
Curzon
Elstree Studios
Lilac Grove Entertainment
Netflix 
Papa Salt Gin
Stephen Webster Jewellers

Deadline
British Cinematographer magazine
DDA Global

Ask Mummy & Daddy Gourmet Confectionery
Girls on Tops
WorkWise for Screen

Thanks to our production team:
Oli Fyne - Awards producer
Charlotte Homeshaw - Sound Recordist 
Claudia Vyvyan - Digital Assets Designer
Richard Gay - Videographer
Adam Southgate - Videographer
Ciaran O'Brien - Gaffer
Joanne Davidson - Photographer

Thanks to each and every one of the volunteers who helped pull it all together on the night:

Anna Penney
Blair Barnette
Elliana Hamer
Hattie Morris
Heather Dempsey
Jade Evans
Jo Rogers
Ruby Rose Bradshaw
Tallulah Treadaway
Tom Oliver Tew
Yvonne Potter

Winners in order of appearance on the podcast:

Best Composer: Emilie Levienaise-Farrouch – H is for Hawk
Best Cinematography Sponsored by CrewHQ: Autumn Durald Arkapaw, ASC – Sinners
Best Editing Sponsored by DISAUTHORITY:  Olivia Neergaard-Holm – The Chronology of Water
Best Ensemble Cast: Goodbye June
Best Female Friendship on Screen: Brides and Lollipop
Best Documentary: The Perfect Neighbor (Geeta Gandbhir)
Best Performance in a Supporting Role: Teyana Taylor – One Battle After Another
Best Performance in a Leading Role: Jessie Buckley – Hamnet
Intimacy Award Sponsored by Intimacy On Set: Dreamers (Ronkẹ Adékọluẹ́jọ́, Ann Akinjirin, Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor) 
Ally Award Sponsored by IMDb: Jon M. Chu – Wicked: For Good
Best Production Design: Tamara Deverell – Frankenstein
Best Director: Chloe Zhao – Hamnet
Best Feature Film Sponsored by EON productions: Hamnet
Activist Impact Award: Daisy-May Hudson


Commendations:
Best Composer – Nala Sinephro – The Smashing Machine
Best Documentary – Sadie Frost – Twiggy
Ally Award – John Maclean – Tornado

Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast
Follow us on socials:
 www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/
 www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast
 www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod
 www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno
Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel:
 www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z

Credits:

Girls On Film is an HLA production.
Host: Anna Smith and Hedda Lornie Archbold
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
Awards Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold and Oli Fyne
Social Media Producer: Dr Jade Evans
Intern: Ruby Rose Bradshaw
Sound Recordist: Charlotte Homeshaw
Audio Editor Extraordinaire: Benjamin Cook
House Band: MX Tyrants
Principal Partners: Peter Brewer and Vanessa Smith
Episode Sponsor: Lilac Grove Entertainment

© HLA Agency

Ep 216: Celebrating Creative Brilliance: Girls On Film Awards 2026

In this bumper episode, Anna speaks to four film heavyweights from across the globe. From the head of a renowned London film studio to a top Hollywood magazine publisher, these women are leaders in their respective fields and join us to discuss their remarkable career trajectories.

Anna catches up with Dea Lawrence, the Publisher and Co-President of Variety, about how she is shaping the iconic publication’s future. She also welcomes Jen Smith, the CEO of the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority, to talk about improving the safety of creative working environments. And she takes a trip down memory lane with old friends Rebecca Hawkes and JoJo Dye, who are brimming with rollicking stories from their early years in Cannes. They also just happen to be Head of Elstree Studios and Director of the Global Entertainment Awards, respectively.

Get ready for a masterclass in film business as each of our guests offers golden advice, taken from illustrious, decades-long careers. They also discuss the importance of female friendships and name the legendary on-screen women that inspire them.
 
CIISA: https://ciisa.org.uk/ 

Elstree Studios: https://www.elstreestudios.co.uk/ 

JoJo Dye: https://jjdconsultancy.com/ 

Variety: https://variety.com/ 

Marilyn Monroe’s article, recommended by Jen Smith: https://www.marilynrememberedfanclub.com/article-marilyn-monroe-wolves-i-have-known/ 

Films mentioned: Imitation of Life (1959), Hello Dolly, St Trinian’s, The Misfits, Mommie Dearest, Gone with the Wind

Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast

Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ 

Follow us on socials:
 www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/
 www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast
 www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod
 www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno

Watch Girls On Film on the BFI’s YouTube channel:
 www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z

Girls On Film is an HLA production.
Host: Anna Smith
Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold
Producer & Audio Editor: Elliana Jay Hamer
Social Media Producer: Dr Jade Evans
Production Assistant: Ruby Rose Bradshaw
House Band: MX Tyrants
Principle Partners: Peter Brewer and Vanessa Smith
Thank you to Lilac Grove Entertainment for partnering with us on this episode.

 © HLA Agency

Ep 217: International Women's Day special: inspiring female figureheads in the film industry

Girls On Film is a film review podcast from a female perspective, hosted by film critic and broadcaster Anna Smith and produced by co-founder Hedda Archbold at HLA Agency

Girls On Film

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