Marie Rouhban is a film director in Los Angeles focusing on narrative work. “I am currently in development for two features films. I am writing one by myself, but I am always looking for new collaborators.” Learn more about Marie Rouhban…
Follow at: @marie_rouhban
Hometown: Paris, France
First job: Pitching evening classes to the students at my university.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in CA: I love hiking and enjoying screenings with filmmakers present. My hiking boots and American Cinematheque memberships are my most valued belongings in California.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: After years of working in advertising back home in France, I took a leap of faith and moved to L.A. in 2021 to pursue narrative filmmaking. It took a lot of courage because I was already successful and established in my career. Starting from scratch in a different country was intense and scary, but I’m glad I made that move.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Getting rid of my need for perfection and fear of failure. I used to be crippled by the unknown and what seemed unsafe, which led to a lot of anxiety and unhappiness. Perfection is the killer of creativity and vitality.
Someone who inspires you and why: Julia Ducournau, a French female director who managed, in the span of a few years only, to make a place for herself and her weird films in the cinematic landscape.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Filmmaking is hard. I recommend embarking on this journey only if you’re passionate about it and don’t doubt yourself.
Favorite quote: “Nothing is forever except change” —Buddha.
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I have a passion for horror films as I believe fear is the most interesting feeling to dissect and analyze. This often surprises the people I meet since I tend to be joyful and optimistic, far from the horror fan stereotypes.
What makes someone fabulous: Being yourself is what makes you fabulous! Nothing is worse than people trying hard to project the image of something they’re not.