Meet Xanthe Pajarillo | Film Director, Screenwriter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Xanthe Pajarillo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Xanthe, we’d love to hear about a book that’s had an impact on you.
When I was in the midst of choosing a research topic to apply for PhD programs, it was easy to get overwhelmed by the endless possibilities. All I knew was that I wanted to focus on the horror genre somehow. I host a horror podcast for children called “Kindergeist” with my 14-year-old niece, Zakia Ponce, and that had my brain wheels turning. I loved discussing horror with children and learning from what they had to say about it.

What if I studied children’s horror? What exactly did that mean? Where should I start?

Then, as if summoned, I came across “Horror Films for Children: Fear and Pleasure in American Cinema” by Dr. Catherine Lester. It’s an academic book about the aesthetics, history and an examination of what the children’s horror genre is. When I mention the mix of children and horror as an interest of study, I consistently receive a look of confusion. People ask, “Does that mean films like The Omen? Firestarter?”

The genre is complex and difficult to define, but for simplicity’s sake let’s say that films within the umbrella would include works such as Coraline, ParaNorman, The Monster Squad, The Gate, The Witches and then some. Children as the protagonists and unpack themes relevant to their experience. Topics such as these and others are explored in the book, as well as bring to the surface new questions. If you’re a horror or film enthusiast, I highly recommend it. The text is written in a way that draws any reader in and feels very inviting into this world.

It may not be commonplace to mention an academic book as one that holds such a dear place in one’s heart, but “Horror Films for Children” not only had an impact on me… it helped steer me towards the next chapter of my life and further encouraged me to advocate for children to tell their own stories. I hope it will open your eyes to a new perspective too.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I don’t know anyone who has mentioned that their path to become a filmmaker was easy. Particularly as a woman in the horror genre. The biggest lesson I’ve learned this year is that you have to dive inward to some really uncomfortable places if you want to heal. (Denial is a river in Egypt?) Along the way, lean on your trusted friends, mentors, loved ones and therapist to help you. And make sure your therapist is the right person for you.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love going to the Mystic Museum, a beloved horror and oddities store in Burbank. They will often rotate different exhibits of horror movies. At the time of writing this, they currently have “Y2Kills” up, which features designed sets from American Psycho, Saw, Trick ‘Treat and other 2000’s horror films. It’s such a blast and my happy place. If it’s summer, the Cinespia screenings at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery are so fun to go with friends.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Since we are discussing a pursuit of a PhD, I’d have to thank Dr. Rebekah McKendry, John Watson and Jed Shepherd for supporting me on the journey. Couldn’t have done it without them and I am forever grateful.

Website: https://www.xanthepajarillo.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xanthepajarillo/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xanthepajarillo

Twitter: https://twitter.com/xanthepajarillo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/xanthepajarillo

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/xanthepajarillo

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@xanthepajarillo Podcast: https://kindergeistpod.weebly.com/

Image Credits
Kyle Ellis