The indomitable spirit of a cheeky octogenarian is the beating heart of this delightful and inspiring ode to the visibility of older women
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY BFI FLARE
Could you tell us a bit about what inspired you to make this film?
Isla’s Way is my first feature documentary. I’ve always loved documentaries and have been quietly looking for a reason to throw myself into the unknown. When I met 87-year-old Isla Roberts, I knew that I wanted to tell her story, even though the outcome was completely uncertain, and I had no idea of what might happen over the course of one year of her life.
What is the key message you hope LGBTQIA audiences take from your film?
Older queer women, especially grandmothers, are living full, extraordinary lives. Defying labels, expectations, and constraints – these are not your “little old ladies”. Also, if you don’t ask permission, taking risks can bring amazing rewards.
What are the main themes that your film explores?
Ageing, family, love and death.
What is your favourite line or scene from your film?
Isla’s insisting that her husband wasn’t at their wedding.
How did you get into filmmaking and what has been your biggest challenge in the industry?
I had always wanted to work in films. I just didn’t know how to do it. When I was 40, I decided to make some short films. I had to make my own opportunities because no one else was going to do it for me.
Why is LGBTQIA representation in film so important in 2024?
What you can’t see, you can’t be. Children in families where there is understanding and insight seem to have better social outcomes and stronger mental health according to almost every study undertaken in this area.
Why are events like BFI Flare which centre LGBTQIA films so important?
Celebrating, showcasing, and promoting LGBTQIA films to a broad audience normalises inclusivity. And it’s fun!
This year’s Flare is split into the themes of Hearts, Bodies, and Minds. Do you have an LGBTQIA film which affected your heart, body, or mind?
Dog Day Afternoon and The Kids Are All Right. Both resonated for very different reasons with me, but at the core of each is the struggle for acceptance in life and love.
What do you hope to see in the future of LGBTQIA filmmaking?
Narrative and character inclusion across all genres for a commercial audience and those financing commercial films and television.
Isla’s Way will be showing at BFI Flare on Tuesday 19 March at 20:50 and Wednesday 20 March at 18:30. Find out more by heading over to the BFI Flare website.
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