Meet Deborah Hadfield | Film Director & writer

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

Hi Deborah, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think risk is a matter of perception. For me it’s more an opportunity to explore the possibilities that life can offer. Risk has played an important part in my life and career. It was a risk to leave a staff job in television for a chance to work in film.. But as movies are my passion it felt like a risk worth taking. Making our later film We Too Together was a risk I chose to take with my producer Jackie Witney. It paid off as our film is now streaming on Amazon, plus many more VOD platforms. Even if risks don’t take you where you hope to go it will always expand your education and you will learn something valuable. Taking risks can lead to the greatest adventures.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a writer and film director. My art is movies and scripts. I write to direct them. What sets me apart is a combination of vision and ability to harness whatever opportunity presents itself to realise my dreams. I am most proud of my latest feature film We Too Together. With minimal resources and maximum effort my team pulled off a miracle. We created a cinematic romance with spectacular scenery and heartfelt story. It’s complex as features 3 stories of love: between a father and son, a man and a women and the love he learns tom he for himself. My journey of becoming a filmmaker was one of a thousand steps. Even the smallest of steps took me forward. Starting as a newspaper journalist I learned stories are all about people. Radio taught me about sound. Television showed me the value of images, But it was filmmaking that allowed me to being all these disciplines together to sharpen my craft of advanced storytelling. It was hard because when you hit a dark chapter and laid your way it can be a challenge to keep going. Taking the safe option of a job is often tempting. But if you work hard enough and are passionate enough you can overcome. Three things have been pivotal in counting my journey. Absolute passion in wanting to make films. Faith that you can do anything if you work hard enough. Perhaps the list important is people who believe in you and encourage you to keep going whatever the odds. The key lessons I have learned are trust your instincts, appreciate those who support you and follow your dreams. Also that things aren’t always what you imagined but if you’re enjoying the journey it’s worth taking, regardless of the outcome. I’d want the world to know that my brand Queen Bee Films is about following your dreams and encouraging others to do the same. I’d want my story of over overcoming adversity to inspire others to follow their dreams too. I’ve been blessed to climb the steps at the Cannes Film Festival, walk the red carpets at the Oscar’s & BAFTAs, seen my movies play on the big screen and been lucky enough to travel the world on my movie making adventures. All this has been possible by following my motto Carpe Diem.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d take them to the Peak District in Derbyshire to enjoy the countryside. We would eat at Pizza By Goli in Lichfield which makes the best Calzone. Calling in to light a candle at Lichfield Cathedral with all its hundreds of years of history. I would make them cocktails at my home overlong the twinkling light sod the value. We’d also enjoy a spa day at Branston Country Club with lunch after on the patio. A play at the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford would be a great way to experience some of the best art England has to offer. A trip to the movies would also be essential.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I dedicate my shoutout to my Producer Jackie Witney. She is my best friend & wisest mentor. Her faith in me has led to the most fabulous adventure of making our movie We Too Together. Her business instincts are amazing and have helped steer us to success. On set she was the first to roll up her sleeves and pitch in to help with anything that needed doing. Her he’s working and absolute determination are inspiring. My daughter Jessica also deserves recognition too as she also supports my dreams and helps with my productions too. My best friend John Mason has shared my film journey every step of the way. I am grateful for his willingness to support me and encourage me however he can.

Instagram: @wetoomovie

Linkedin: Deborahhadfield

Twitter: @wetoomovie

Facebook: Wetoomovie

Other: Amazon for We Too Movie

Image Credits
Deborah Hadfield