MARION: The 2025 OSCAR-qualified short film exploring Gender Norms in extreme sport, Misogyny and Motherhood | My Soho Times

In an insightful interview with co-directors Joe Weiland and Finn Constantine, Chanel Smith delves into the intricacies of their short film, Marion, which explores the themes of motherhood and misogyny within the sphere of La Course Landaise — a unique French tradition of bullfighting. Executively produced by esteemed actresses Cate Blanchett and Sienna Miller, the film has gained notable acclaim at major film festivals, including Venice and Toronto, and is garnering Oscar buzz.

With a heartfelt examination of gender equality in extreme sports, Marion challenges audiences to consider the hidden struggles faced by women. The co-directors also share their deep affection for Soho, describing it as the creative force of London.

Marion tackles the complexities of motherhood. What inspired you to choose this unique and powerful subject?

Joe: Motherhood was a central theme for us to explore, particularly its ties to sacrifice and responsibility for women navigating male-dominated spaces. Marion’s relationship with her daughter highlights the unseen struggles that Marion goes through, which the audience in the arena doesn’t see.

Finn: In this way, the audience reflects the world, unaware of the immense pressures and  responsibilities she faces behind the scenes.

What was it like having Cate Blanchett and Sienna Miller as executive producers on this project?

Joe: They inspired us because they’re such strong characters with excellent taste and using  them as creative soundboards was so insightful for the film.

Finn: They have been a guiding light for us and so special. And it’s also been a relationship we’re cultivating towards the future.

How did you immerse yourself in this French tradition to ensure its accurate and respectful depiction?

Finn: After writing the script, we moved to Paris to immerse ourselves in French culture. We  worked closely with Caroline, who played Marion, whose life inspired the story. We spent time  at her home and attended bull-jumping events.

Joe: This research was crucial for authenticity and sensitivity, ensuring we treated the subject  with respect. With a topic like that, it’s essential to spend time researching; you can’t cut  corners, which I think shines through in the film.

Joe: it’s so culturally specific and far from something we engage in or know about, as we don’t  have this sport in England. You may watch these incredible performance on YouTube at home  but seeing them in real life is a spectacle. Honestly, watching a performance like that was like a  visual punch in the face.

The film has screened at Venice and Toronto International Film Festivals and is now Oscar-qualified. How does it feel to receive such prestigious recognition?

Joe: It’s incredibly exciting. More importantly, it allows Marion to reach diverse audiences, and  now, having that Oscars buzz and being in those conversations provides for that.

How do you see Marion contributing to the conversation around gender equality in extreme sports and motherhood?

Finn: If this film even opens a few eyes to these stories for us, that’s a win. Caroline brings  Marion’s story to life, inspired by her authentic experiences, making it all the more critical to  share. Whether through short films or big productions, we must ensure these conversations  continue and fight for gender equality in extreme sports.

Joe: Marion’s resilience is the standout theme for me. The story explores a world rarely seen in  film and carries a universal message: you get knocked down but rise again. That’s at the heart  of what we’ve created.

As co-directors, how did you divide responsibilities on set? What unique  perspectives did each of you bring to Marion?

Finn: We’ve been best friends for 25 years, so we have a foundation of understanding and  respect for each other. We inherently know each other’s tastes, so there was no learning curve and that extra level of work and communications, I think goes a very long way.

Joe: This was essential and enabled us to move quickly on to the actual directing together. We  didn’t delegate roles, and it wasn’t like, “You do this, or I do that.” Everything was a  collaboration; we both did everything

Soho is known for fostering creativity. Has this inspired any part of Marion’s creation, especially with your background in film and art?

Joe: We love Soho. It’s an integral part of London; it’s the creative force of London. Finns’ office is in Soho, and I edit there and do all my other creative projects.

Finn: Even walking around Sho gives you a creative buzz you don’t get in other places in  London.

What was it like to watch the Screening at Soho House?

Joe: The night was super busy, but it was beautiful watching and sharing the film with  everyone. We also edited the film in Soho, so having it screen there was an incredible full-circle  moment!

Finn: Soho is always buzzing with energy. It’s truly the heartbeat of London. As we said before,  every time you walk through Soho, you’re bound to stumble into a hidden alleyway or run into  someone unexpected, and your day takes a completely new direction.

MARION is qualified for the 2025 Oscars®. Follow @j__wei and @finn_constantine) for updates.

Written by Chanel Smith @littleblackbook_media

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