Filmmaker Spotlight - Tori Hughes
Welcome to the Filmmaker Spotlight – this series shines a light on filmmakers, actors, editors, and more, as we ask them a few questions and uncover why they love what they do.
This time - Tori Hughes
Actor/Filmmaker
Tell us a bit about yourself and how did you get into the industry?
I’m an actor based in Staffordshire and have wanted to become an actor for as long as I can remember. I tried throughout the years, never fully having the courage to pursue, in the past, due to this career being something that isn’t prevalent locally. However during lockdown I decided it was time to follow my dream and haven’t looked back since. Throughout the last 6 years, I’ve thrown myself into classes and projects, working hard and found myself networking with many different professionals within the industry which has seen my dream start to come to life.
What’s one common misconception people have about being an actor?
I think it’s hard for people around you to understand how the industry works when they themselves are not involved in the industry and so when you tell people that your an actor, although some find it interesting, you tend to get a lot of questions about it being a hobby. I think it’s assumed that you have to be famous to be an actor or that you want to be famous, in reality a lot of working actors work in the independent sector doing independent films, although don’t get me wrong, a TV credit would be great!
What’s something you’ve learned over time that you wish you knew when you started out?
Hmm, that’s a tricky one! I think like anything in life, we learn something new every day and filmmaking/acting is no different. Being an actor can be difficult in the sense that it’s not just a matter of ‘acting’, it’s a skill and a muscle that has to be exercised in order to progress, which needs time and nourishment. Alongside the physical side of acting, there’s a lot of behind the scenes going on such as networking, constant job applications, editing, training, A LOT of rejection and so much more. It’s not for the faint hearted but it’s definitely worth it for that feeling of being on set!
Has directing your short film changed the way you approach acting?
No, I don’t think it’s changed the way I approach acting but it’s definitely improved my knowledge and given me better insight into what goes on behind the camera, something which I have found a new love for. Understanding terminology, camera angles, practicalities and all considerations plus the hard work that goes on both before and after a shoot is such valuable knowledge to have, and although not changed my approach, will definitely enhance my experience and hopefully my ability to be the best I can be. It will also help my understanding of all the chats going on in the background ha! On a serious note though, I wish to continue making films and truly enjoy working behind the camera, getting my teeth stuck into a project in its entirety.
Who or what inspires you most in your work?
I guess there’s a two prong answer to this question. In regards to what inspires my work, I’m inspired by real life and hard hitting stories which give the audience a space to think and react to what’s on the screen. I love telling important stories whether this be via filmmaking or through my characters when acting, drama being my favourite niche as I enjoy raw emotion. In terms of who inspires me, my industry friends, tutors and fellow professionals inspire me and although that might seem cliche, it’s so true. I’ve met so many talented, hardworking and dedicated people in this industry and have been truly humbled by the encouragement and support I have received by them whilst on their own journeys, a testament to this being the amazing team I had around me to help create my short.
What’s one project you’re especially proud of, and why?
Well I have to say my first and recent short film ‘The Aftermath’! I made a film! In this industry, as an actor, you’re always told to create your own work instead of waiting for it to come to you and that’s exactly what I did. It took 10 months of hard work and dedication but I did it! Im so proud of this project as not only did I write, direct and act in this but its my very first film and for that reason it will always hold a special place in my heart- I also feel like my team (who I couldn’t have done it without) and I, have done the story proud and the end result is something worth sharing. As above, regarding my passion for telling real stories, my short is based on real life experiences and one that is hard hitting which I hope will also help to raise awareness. It focuses on the lasting impacts and trauma/ healing journey after experiencing domestic abuse.
Is there a story you’re dying to tell but haven’t had the chance yet?
I have many thoughts and ideas running through my head and a couple of scripts looming, all with a hard hitting core and real world emotion- so watch this space!
What was the biggest challenge you faced making your first short film, and how did you overcome it?
I feel like preparation is the key, in the industry things can happen very quickly and things move/ change fast with some unpredictability. I love organisation and for me that helped to minimise any problems that arose, however, no matter the organisation there’s always going to be niggles but with good support and a good team these can be overcome. As this was my first short, I tried to be honest with my amazing crew about what I did and didn’t know and relied on their knowledge as much as my own. We truly did work as a team, showcasing our strengths and supporting others when needed and I’m so grateful for that. Never be too proud to ask for help, we all start somewhere and this is how we learn. Come to think of it- We did have to recast the week before filming (proving the sometimes unpredictable nature), which was stressful but it all worked out in the end.
Favourite on-set snack?
I’m a fussy eater so that’s a tough one for me but I’d have to say a good hot meal- even better if it’s ordered in Pizza! I think when working non stop, on your feet, for maybe 12 hours a day, hot food is very much appreciated.
Any advice for someone who wants to do the work that you do?
Believe in yourself- don’t let others sculpt your dreams. Work hard, train, commit yourself and have patience, results will come.
Are you currently working on a new project, or is there something you’d like to plug?
For updates regarding The Aftermath film which premiered on 27th September please follow @the.aftermath_shortfilm on instagram or THE AFTERMATH page on facebook.
To see what else I get up to or have been involved with please follow @tori.hughes.actor on Instagram and my spotlight is here
Keep your eyes peeled for future projects!
Screenshot from “The Aftermath”
