Interviews
Isabella Blake-Thomas – Karma: Death At Latigo Springs
By: Lisa Steinberg
Q) Please tell us the premise for the film Karma: Death at Latigo Springs.
A) Karma is a film about the personification of the concept of karma. The story follows high schooler Charley Stevens in the town of Latigo Springs on her quest to solve the mystery that has been uncovered through her dreams. Along the way she learns secrets about the town as well as her mother, and the people that live there.
Q) What inspired you to write the movie?
A) I really wanted to show the idea of karma in human form. We hear about karma as an intangible concept all the time, but I wanted to see a world that when Charley is around, bad people get their karma instantly.
Q) There was a slight alteration to the title of the movie. What inspired the change?
A) Well, firstly the title originally had a curse word which meant it would be harder to sell internationally, but also, the title with a colon implies the possibilities of future films set in this world.
Q) As the writer of the film, did you always have yourself in mind to portray Charley?
A) Yes, I did. The beauty of being a producer is that I am able to make projects that I want to see myself in. I love being able to create roles that show different styles of my acting, and Karma was another way for me to do that.
Q) You have some incredible costars in this film. How hands on were you when it came to casting?
A) I was very hands on, I cast most of the film. I was especially fortunate to be able to put some incredibly talented friends into the project. I loved working with everyone on set, they are all so kind and we had a blast.
Q) Your mother Elizabeth Blake-Thomas is the director. How did she come on board to step behind the camera for this?
A) We work together on a lot of projects, and she directs all Mother Daughter Entertainment films. When I wrote Karma, I knew I wanted her vision behind the camera and for her to be able to pull the best performances out of everyone.
Q) What were some of your favorite scenes to film or ones you’re most proud of how they converted from page to screen?
A) My favorite scenes to film were the ones at the high school. Getting to hang out with my friends while working was a dream come true. The set we used for the interior scenes at the school was a wonderful place, it’s actually the same school from “Teen Wolf,” so it was awesome to work in the same space as such an iconic show. As for the scenes I’m most proud of, the scenes with Tony [Todd] and I in the sheriff station, as well as the scene from the final fight.
Q) The nightmares Charley experiences must have been intense to film. How did you shake off a long day of that intensity and adrenaline?
A) I liked to unwind by hanging out with the cast and going for dinner after set. I also liked to read my book or unwind by watching a show while I cook. It’s important for me to have my self-care time each evening so I can be the best version of myself on set the next day.
Q) What do you think it is about Karma: Death at Latigo Springs that will make it a must-see mystery/thriller?
A) There are definitely parts to this film that people can relate to, as well as it being an entertaining watch. I think it’s because there are equal amounts of heart to the story as well as drama. Charley (the hero) goes through some challenging things emotionally surrounding her mom and also her own sexuality.
Q) What are the other projects you have been busy working on – either writing or starring in?
A) We are currently in pre-production for two of our movies that will shoot this year. I’m set to star in two films as well. As for music, I have a couple more songs coming out this year that I’m really excited for people to hear.
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of the incredible work you do?
A) I would like to say thank you. Thank you for their continued support and passion for the projects I make. As an actor and producer, my projects do well when people watch them and talk about them so I’m thankful when they do. I am very grateful that people continue to believe in me and the projects I make as this enables me to continue making things.
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