Introduction: In this interview, we speak with Aly Mang, the director, writer, and lead actress of The Beginning, a film that explores themes of creation, empowerment, and the courage to follow one’s heart. Known for her dynamic career as both an actress and a filmmaker, Aly shares insights into the creative process behind her second directorial project. She discusses the inspiration behind the story, the challenges she faced, and the importance of representation in cinema. Join us as we delve into Aly’s journey of bringing The Beginning to life and her vision for future projects.
Patrick Roy, UniversalCinema Magazine (UM): Your film The Beginning centers around themes of creation and empowerment. Can you share what inspired you to explore these themes in your second directorial project?
Aly Mang (AM): Creation and empowerment weren’t themes I initially had in mind when I first began working on The Beginning. My original focus was on crafting a love story. As I brainstormed ideas, I started thinking about some of the greatest love couples throughout time and cinema that have inspired me, and “Adam & Eve” came to mind. However, when I considered their story, particularly how they’re labeled as ‘sinners,’ I felt compelled to dive deeper and explore it further.
As I thought about their story, it evolved from being about forbidden love into a powerful narrative about creation and empowerment. The idea of Eve making a brave decision out of love, and the consequences that followed, became central to the story. I wanted to explore how her decisions weren’t about sin, but about finding oneself and stepping into one’s power. The process of making bold choices, often in defiance of what’s expected, became a metaphor for empowerment. The story grew into something not just about love, but about the courage it takes to follow your heart and create your own path, even when it means facing significant challenges.
(UM): You have a background as an actress with a diverse range of roles. How did your experiences in front of the camera influence your approach to directing The Beginning?
(AM): My experience as an actress has given me a deep appreciation for the power of storytelling. When I transitioned to directing, my approach was to always focus on the story first. Everything else—locations, music, lighting, colors—were tools to enhance and bring that story to life in a way that was true to my vision. Each and every component had to have specific meaning, purpose, and significance to the story we were telling. If it didn’t, I cut it out, re-shot scenes, and did whatever I could with the resources I had.
Being involved in multiple aspects of the film, from writing to directing to acting, allowed me to stay consistent and true to my initial vision. This hands-on approach ensured that the final product was a true reflection of what I envisioned from the start. My work is often abstract because I like the audience to make discoveries for themselves along the way. As they discover the truth of my film, they discover a part of themselves and a choice they might make in their own life.
(UM): The character of Everly (“Eve”) navigates complex moral choices in the film. How did you develop her character, and what message do you hope audiences take away from her journey?
(AM): I developed Eve’s character by drawing from true life circumstances, asking myself what choices might have led her to make the decisions she did and, more importantly, why she made them. It was crucial for me to understand her ultimate reason and the truth behind her actions. Eve’s choice was a brave one, and through her journey, I want audiences to see the importance of choosing love and self-acceptance, even when it means going against societal expectations. Her story is about following your heart and not being afraid to sacrifice to fulfill your destiny or purpose. I hope viewers are inspired to embrace their own truths and have the courage to make choices that align with their deepest values.
(UM): Your work often draws from personal experiences, as seen in Roaring Tides and now The Beginning. How did your personal story influence the narrative and themes of this film?
(AM): Creating The Beginning was deeply personal for me, as I was going through a major transition and transformation in my own life—navigating the challenges of COVID and experiencing pregnancy for the first time. What is unique about the film is that my entire pregnancy was captured over the course of the production, with my character portrayed pre-, during, and post-pregnancy. This journey became interwoven with the narrative, allowing my true life experience to shape the character and enhance the film’s themes. My proudest moment completing the film is seeing my son a part of it—making his on-screen debut at just 8 weeks old!
(UM): What were some of the challenges you faced while directing The Beginning, particularly in balancing your roles as writer, director, and lead actress?
(AM): One of the biggest challenges we faced while directing The Beginning was the interruption caused by COVID. We started production before the pandemic but had to halt it for some time. This required us to adapt to what was possible and not possible during that period. The film took four years to complete, which was much longer than initially anticipated, but I’m proud that we never gave up on it. Balancing my roles as writer, director, and lead actress was demanding, but it allowed me to stay true to the vision and see it through to completion at the right time.
(UM): The Beginning has already received significant recognition at film festivals. How has the reception of the film met or exceeded your expectations, and what has been the most rewarding feedback so far?
(AM): When creating The Beginning, I never focused on the outcome or what people might think of it. It was a story I felt had to be told, and I was mostly concerned with telling it in the truest way possible. When I finally screened the film and the response was positive, and people wanted to dive in, explore the story, ask questions, and continue the conversation—even asking if there will be a sequel—it was an incredible feeling. The most rewarding feedback has been hearing that the film resonates with young women, which was ultimately my goal.
(UM): In The Beginning, Eve follows her heart, even at great personal cost. How did you approach portraying the emotional depth and complexity of her decisions on screen?
(AM): To portray the emotional depth and complexity of Eve’s decisions, I chose to have her main dialogue come through her writing in her journal. I believe this is where people are most intimate, vulnerable, and honest with their thoughts. By allowing the audience to access Eve’s inner world through her writing, we get into her head and heart, understanding her truth. The rest of her emotions are conveyed through her expressions, especially her eyes, which communicate her feelings in the most truthful, honest, and vulnerable way.
(UM): Given your success as a first-time director with Roaring Tides, how did you approach your second directorial project differently, and what lessons did you carry over from your previous experience?
(AM): With Roaring Tides, my first film, I worked with a small cast of just two main characters, which allowed for an intimate, focused story. For The Beginning, I wanted to expand the scope by including more characters, more locations, and a more complex narrative. I took risks by creating two separate worlds within the story, each with its own set of characters. I also learned valuable lessons from my first film, such as the importance of controlling as many variables as possible, including choosing locations I could better control.
(UM): As a female filmmaker, what do you believe is the importance of representation and diversity in the film industry, and how does this belief inform your work?
(AM): As a female filmmaker, I believe that representation and diversity in the film industry are crucial because they allow for the telling of stories from fresh perspectives.
My work, like The Beginning, centers around a female character who is misunderstood, and it’s about reinterpreting a well-known story through a new lens. It’s important to tell stories in new ways with new voices, ensuring that different experiences are brought to the forefront. This belief drives my commitment to creating films that challenge traditional narratives.
(UM): Looking ahead, what are your goals for The Beginning and your future projects? Are there specific themes or stories you’re eager to explore next?
(AM): My ultimate goal with The Beginning and all my future projects is not just to entertain, but to bring a piece of my heart into my work. I hope to inspire others and offer a healing message through my art. Love has been a central theme in my past projects, and as I move forward, I’m considering whether to continue exploring this theme or venture into something more gritty or unexpected. I’m open to all genres and excited by the possibilities of pushing myself to uncover something original and innovative. After the completion of The Beginning and the recognition it has received, I’m especially energized by the prospect of ‘new beginnings.’
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