In her insightful interview with Eye Film Magazine, filmmaker and entrepreneur Chesney Giersthove shared her groundbreaking vision for the future of Dutch cinema. Giersthove, an autodidact filmmaker with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, is determined to reshape the film industry by blending creativity with business acumen.
A New Perspective on Filmmaking
Chesney’s journey into film was unconventional yet deeply inspiring. Despite being told early in life that making a living through filmmaking was improbable, her father’s encouragement and her resilience fueled her passion. Today, she’s not just a filmmaker but a visionary advocating for a more entrepreneurial approach to the craft.
For Chesney, filmmaking is more than storytelling; it’s about creating sustainable success. She believes that greater entrepreneurship within the industry will lead to higher-quality films that resonate with broader audiences and achieve profitability—an aspect often overlooked due to reliance on traditional subsidies.
Championing Independence in Filmmaking
A staunch advocate for artistic independence, Chesney highlights the risks of losing creative control when filmmakers rely heavily on traditional funding bodies or distributors. By securing alternative subsidies and maintaining ownership of her intellectual property, she has carved a path that ensures both creative freedom and financial sustainability.
Her advice to aspiring filmmakers is straightforward yet powerful:
“Read up on all regulations surrounding intellectual property. By retaining your rights, you can secure long-term income and creative independence.”
Social Themes and Heartfelt Storytelling
Chesney’s work is deeply rooted in social themes. Films like My Name Is Queen explore intergenerational trauma and the concept of freedom for young women. Her commitment to addressing societal issues through film is a testament to her belief in the medium’s transformative power.
“For me, filmmaking is the means to reach people’s hearts with the stories I want to tell.”
A Global Outlook
Chesney’s ambition extends far beyond the Netherlands. She spends significant time in Atlanta, a hub for Black entrepreneurship, where her ideas receive a level of support she finds lacking at home. Her focus on international collaboration and financing demonstrates her commitment to fostering global conversations through film.
A Call for Change in the Dutch Film Industry
Chesney envisions a Dutch film industry that is more open to innovation and alternative approaches. She challenges traditional structures, urging funding bodies to take independent filmmakers more seriously and to support those with bold, unconventional ideas.
“I think too often people say ‘no’ because someone’s plan doesn’t fit the current system. The independent film industry deserves to be taken seriously.”
About Eye Film Magazine
Eye Film Magazine, the publication of the Eye Filmmuseum in Amsterdam, highlights the voices shaping the future of cinema. Their profile of Chesney Giersthove sheds light on the emerging talent driving innovation in the Dutch film landscape. The magazine is a must-read for anyone passionate about the art and business of filmmaking.
Chesney Giersthove’s story is a powerful reminder that courage, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit can redefine industries. At D.I.M.E.S., we champion these values as we work to create a more inclusive and equitable media landscape. Join us in celebrating changemakers like Chesney, who inspire us to envision a brighter future for film and storytelling.
