Simone Flanagan has years experience working in publicity, marketing and sponsorship in the arts, most recently as part of the board for Melbourne WebFest. Simone is also a feminist and disability activist. We asked her a few questions:
How’d you get involved in GOFF?
I met Karen when I volunteered at SlutWalk last year and realised I had met a like-minded individual. Catching up with her over a glass of wine a few months later, she mentioned she was starting a feminist festival. Having always had a passion for film and events, my ears pricked up and I was honoured when she asked me to be part of the festival team!
Apart from GOFF, what are you working on now?
I’ve just finished Melbourne WebFest which was held a Fed Square last week (where best actor, best screen-writing and the iView award were won by female creators from the web-series Bleak) and am currently working in arts and advocacy in various roles including Women with Disabilities Victoria and Hollaback! Melbourne.
What’s one of your favourite moments involving a girl on film?
Growing up I loved films like Tank Girl, Muriel’s Wedding, Thelma and Louise, Beaches and Boys on the Side – anything with strong female characters.
More recently my would have to be the character of Hushpuppy in Beasts of the Southern Wild, I love her courage and compassion.
It’s hard to pick a favourite!
What’s something you think GOFF brings to Melbourne’s film festival scene?
Awesome classic and contemporary films that showcase the diverse experience of being a woman in a safe inclusive and accessible space for people who love films and/or girls can gather. Almost everything else has it’s own film festival here in Melbourne – it surprises me that there hasn’t been a feminist film festival until now! Bring on GOFF 2014!
If you could see a movie made about any real life woman who would it be?
I would love to see a film based on the life of Australian author Charmian Clift. She was a brilliant journalist and author in the 50s and 60s, yet her husband George Johnston is more well known. She lived a full and passionate life and was ahead of her time, it would be awesome to see Charmian’s story or some of her writing on the big screen.
Do you have a favourite female actor or director?
I’m a big fan of Miranda July, have always had a soft spot for Drew Barrymore and love the work Teal Sherer, especially her recent project, My Gimpy Life.