CHLOE DE BRITO
video
What do you do? When I’m not in lockdown/isolation mode, I’m a filmmaker and photographer with a passion for stories in all forms and a love for dance. What inspired
you to pick up a camera? As a child, I spent a lot of time exploring the depths of my imagination. I was obsessed with figuring out new ways to communicate what I could see in my head, and would use any tools available to me, from cardboard boxes to dance and drama performances. I used to watch my mum record my brother’s soccer games, and one day decided to pick up the camcorder to find out what it was all about. Who do you
look up to? My loved ones for their nourishment, selflessness, charisma and compassion. Everyday folks who are just existing and thriving. Shout out to all my people – I love you!
What do your parents think of your job? With a panel beater dad and accountant mum, both from non-english-speaking backgrounds, I’ve certainly pushed the boundaries of the ‘expected’ lifestyle within my family’s community (I’m known as the ‘weird hippie’ one). But they have always practised compassion and love towards me, for which I am eternally grateful. Which tool could you not do without? Is coffee a tool? I hate to admit it, but my trusty old Macbook Pro. From writing to studying, watching films to making films, she’s let me render projects that should’ve killed her. Biggest achievement so far?
Being able to accrue a network of trusted collaborators whom I once admired from afar. Also, a few years ago, I dreamt of directing a music video. I’ve since directed many.
What did your high-school careers counsellor suggest you do? Be a drama teacher. I fulfilled the prediction and have taught drama. What do you believe? That sharing and expressing ourselves through storytelling is at the core of our humanity. That despite the loudness of the current world, it is the one commonality that can bring joy.
What does winning a Good Stuff award mean to you? I’ve read frankie since I was a teen, so it hits me straight in the nostalgia. frankie is a brilliant champion for the creative community and this acknowledgement is almost like an official induction into the team. Thanks, frankie mag! What would you have been voted ‘Most likely to’ back
in high school? I wasn’t sure how to answer this, so I asked around. One friend said a fashionista, which is absolutely hilarious to me! Another few said they always thought I would become a filmmaker. Were they psychic or did I constantly smother them with my creations and growing aspirations? Where can we see your work? Online at chloe-debrito.com and across Vimeo and Instagram.
Video judge Maya Newell says: Chloe's film clip is beautifully choreographed, with a sharp and compelling performance by its young star. It has an evolving and surprising narrative that commands our attention. I loved the diverse casting and themes of gender nonconformity and self-expression – these are still rarely seen on mainstream screens.