Ciara Boniface x Fox Court - Black Girl Magic Month Interview

Meet Ciara Boniface! Ciara is a gifted filmmaker with a passion for horror and thriller films. She crafts stories that place people of color within these genres and explores themes inspired by her southern background. For our second mini-interview, we asked Ciara about her experience as a filmmaker, what inspires her, and how she's helping to shape the industry.

What inspired you to pursue a career in film?

After making my own skateboarding videos in middle school, I found a passion in the process of filmmaking. I went on to write, direct, and edit my short films throughout high school.

What do you do to stay inspired?

I love to watch a lot of movies and just generally take in all forms of art. I also find inspiration everywhere in everyday life. Whenever I see or hear something that speaks to me I'm compelled to dig deeper and find a story there.

What are the qualities of a great filmmaker?

I think a lot of filmmakers aren't afraid to take risks and be vulnerable. That's definitely something that I continue to learn and apply to myself as I grow as a writer/ director.

Of the projects you have worked on, which is your favorite/the one that you are most proud of?

I'm really proud of my short film, SKINTIGHT, because it's a part of a larger feature idea. I've spent nearly three years on this concept and it's amazing to see the journey I've been on with it.

How do you think films will change in the next 5-10 years?

I'm hoping we will be able to see all kinds of stories in the next few years. I hope that there will be no limits for us as storytellers to explore a variety of genres with all kinds of people in lead roles, instead of the typical white gaze we've seen for so long.

What legacy do you hope to leave behind?

I hope that my stories speak to people and inspire others. Whether to get in film, make art, or not be afraid to really go there with the story they want to tell.

Check out Ciara's website to watch her films!