With Jack Gray
How did this film come together?
The idea for 'Missed Connections' came from my intrigue and surprise when documenting the rich variety of eccentric stories found on the forum. The site offers a unique space for people to express themselves in an honest and open way, allowing themselves to be vulnerable yet with complete anonymity. I find myself drawn to these stories and in how they can reveal modern forms of social interaction. For over 5 years, I have been collecting these posts, and adapting storyboards for my favorite ones. I have focussed on the stories that initially feel commonplace but then develop a somewhat uncanny, unreal, air about them. I have become invested in the stories I have worked on so far, both as a filmmaker and emotionally. This process has demanded sensitive and imaginative consideration to the filmic settings while presenting the complex feelings that they invoke.
Did anything unexpected happen as you were making this film?
I took many breaks while making the film. I started it after graduating from college in 2017 and returned to it periodically over the years. A lot of unexpected things happened during that time, but the thing I expected least was just how long it would take me to finish it!
What's the best filmmaking advice you've ever received?
Trust the process and allow yourself to experiment
Elling Lien
