In Cannes I saw so many vibrant, knowledgeable, mature women; writers, producers, directors, actresses and other creatives. Of course I saw a lot of interesting and powerful men too but women are fewer. Interestingly there were quite a lot of influential women who liked my projects and saw their potential. Women supporting women.

 

So I thought of a  group - Collective Queens whose members  will support all women in film and theatre but in particular Women over 40 who get less roles, can be less visible in the work place for all roles in film and theatre 

 

Men are called experienced, powerful,  women are called “past it” as if just seen as useful for their looks(when in fact many older women can still be sassy, well dressed and sexy) their experiences sidelined . We will try to bring roles as cast and crew to your attention and create more opportunities. 

 

I find it demeaning that the title emerging directors, actors, artists, producers are considered 18-30. Women put their careers on hold often to bring up a family and can reemerge at any age but particularly 50 plus when their family have grown. 

 

We need to change perceptions, older women do not just feature as “mum”, “granny” “witch” “madam” but need nuanced roles where they are the love interest, the boss, the explorer, the inventor, the detective. Of course we need men too but we need them and us to also write roles and cast mature women more often. 

 

Older women have a wealth of knowledge and experience that could  be put to use to  support other mature women and younger women in the arts. They need to tell their stories and I for one want to hear, watch and see them. Let’s support, guide, empower, elevate and green light each other. Besides that we make up part of a section of society that often or sometimes has time and money on their hands.