Ep 219: From Mexico to Cannes: a new film about Leonora Carrington + How to do PR at a film fest

Anna speaks to three women with different perspectives on the film industry. First up, director Lena Vurma and actor Olivia Vinall discuss their new film Leonora in the Morning Light, a visually glorious exploration of the life and work of artist Leonora Carrington. Lena explains what drew her to make a film about one of surrealism’s lesser-known figures whilst Olivia shares the challenges and rewards of embodying a woman whose life spanned continents and who experienced war and mental illness alongside the difficulties and joys of a career as a female artist. They talk about the film’s extraordinary locations in Mexico and the South of France and the female friendship at the heart of Carrington’s story.

In the second half of the show, Anna is joined by Jane Owen who discusses her role as founder of award-winning Public Relations company, Jane Owen PR. Jane tells us how her PR team prepares for the parties, networking and deal-making opportunities at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. She also shares her PR highlights of the last few years, and her love of old movies and the stars who made them. Jane talks about positive changes in the industry, which present opportunities for smaller indie films and shares the skills essential for success in film PR.

Leonora in the Morning Light is on general release in UK cinemas from 29th May 2026. Find further details about the film and screenings here: https://www.modernfilms.com/leonora

DIRECTORS Thor Klein & Lena Vurma

CAST Olivia Vinall, Alexander Scheer, Cassandra Ciangherotti, Ryan Gage, Istvan Teglas, Luis Gerardo Mendez

Other films mentioned in this episode:

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes

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