Filmmaker Profile: TINGLE
Welcome to the Bushwick Film Festival Q&A series, where we introduce you to the incredible filmmakers behind this year's lineup. Each of these talented storytellers has crafted a unique vision, reflecting diverse perspectives and powerful narratives that resonate deeply with audiences today. In this series, you'll get an inside look at what inspired their work, the challenges they faced, and the creative processes that brought their films to life. Through candid interviews, they share their thoughts on the impact of their films, the themes they explore, and their hopes for how audiences will connect with their stories. Whether you're here for drama, comedy, documentary, or experimental films, these filmmakers are sure to inspire you with their dedication and passion for the craft. We hope you enjoy getting to know the voices behind this year's festival as much as we have enjoyed bringing their films to our screens. Let’s dive into their stories!
About This Film
Two friends kill time at home waiting for the guy one of them has been dating to show up, but things take an unexpected turn shortly after his arrival.
Q&A with CAMILLA WERNER-LONGO
Camilla Werner-Longo, writer, producer, & actor of TINGLE
What was a big challenge you faced while making this film?
Letting go and relinquishing control after a certain point. This was the first film I made that I could say was fully mine and because of that, it was difficult at times for me to loosen my grip on how I planned for things to go or be open to the small changes or tweaks that happened throughout the process of getting it made. I think as a writer when you’ve been working on something you really want to exist in the world and you’ve been so close to it for so long, you can get a bit territorial with it. There’s this protective sense that sort of takes over but it doesn’t necessarily always benefit things — I did have a very clear vision for how I wanted TINGLE to feel and look but as the writer, producer, and actor I eventually needed to move to the backseat and just let go in order to step out of my writer / producer mindset and just focus on the acting. So through that came a lot of learning to trust that the people I brought on to help bring my weird little brain baby to life were capable, understood the vision, and would only elevate it in their participation.
What was your favorite part of making your film? Memories from the process?
The final shot was done in one take because our special effects team (both so amazing, the real MVPs of the set) had rigged the blood to come shooting out of a gun/vacuum type of contraption and it was decided that it would be best for them to not tell me when the blood would be shot off. So I had no idea when they were going to pull the trigger and I have to say, of all the ways I’ve died or been bloodied up on screen that was a pretty wild first for me!
Were there any films or directors that influenced your approach to this project?
Scream, Jennifer’s Body and It Follows were all huge sources of inspiration. I would say there were small aspects of each of those films that played a role in the way the world, tone, and vibe of TINGLE was built.
How do you feel about your film being screened in front of a festival audience
I love it. I think the best part of making a movie is getting to see and hear an unbiased audiences genuine reaction to it. Learning what landed and what people found funny or were shocked by is definitely one of my favorite parts of the whole process.
What’s the last film you watched?
In theaters: The Substance, at home: Corpse Bride
How do you want people to feel after they see your film?
Grossed out with a healthy questioning of my sanity, but still hungry for more ;)
BIOGRAPHY
Camilla Werner-Longo is an actor, writer, and production designer based in Los Angeles. She graduated magna cum laude from Chapman University with a BA in TV & Broadcast Journalism and Fine Art, with a primary focus in Performance Art and Entertainment News. She went on to study at The Beverly Hills Playhouse, Lesly Kahn & Co., John Rosenfeld Studios, and Ruskin School of Acting where she completed a two-year study of Meisner Technique. She is currently studying at The BGB studio under master teacher Sydney Walsh. Since its release, her short film Crushed - which she wrote, produced, and starred in - has received multiple laurels and praise. She is currently in post for her next proof of concept, Tingle, that was shot in March 2023.
Thank you for joining us for this special Q&A with the filmmakers of the Bushwick Film Festival. We hope this conversation has given you insight into the artistry, dedication, and heart that went into bringing their films to life. Each of these creators represents the spirit of independent filmmaking—fearlessly telling stories that reflect the complexities of our world and the personal experiences that shape us. As you continue exploring this year’s lineup, we encourage you to dive deeper into these works and discover the powerful messages, emotions, and perspectives they offer. Whether you're a long-time supporter of indie films or a newcomer to the festival, your engagement and curiosity make all the difference in uplifting these voices. Stay tuned for more filmmaker spotlights, and we look forward to seeing you at this year’s screenings. Let’s continue celebrating the magic of storytelling together!
