Filmmaker Leah Baulch talks us through the journey of creating her latest film Lara, a project borne from personal experience and a deep connection to family, art, and the pressures of modern life.
Baulch’s idea for the film began in 2021, during a time of major life changes—she was pregnant with her son. “I thought, I’d love to have a creative record of this special time,” she explained. But as the months passed, it became clear that juggling independent filmmaking and pregnancy wasn’t the easiest combo. “I kept the script in a drawer,” she said, “and brought it out when I could carve out some ‘me-time’, post-partum.”
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By 2023, a stroke of good luck struck when Baulch applied for a grant from Geelong Waterfront Film and, much to her delight, won. This unexpected opportunity set the wheels in motion for production, which began in the summer of 2024. The film was completed later that year, thanks to the efforts of her husband and long-time collaborator Dallas Bland, who worked as the film’s editor, along with the post-production team.
At its core, Lara follows Emily, a burnt-out Melbourne photographer who’s become so absorbed in her art that she’s lost touch with her own needs. Emily’s visit to her boyfriend’s sister in the countryside town of Lara forces her to confront questions about a future she never imagined. The film, as Baulch describes, explores “the death of the self, family, and how hustle culture impacts our lives and relationships.”
Set and shot in the real-life town of Lara, Victoria, the film captures the unique community values that help foster change. “It reflects the incredible support you can find in small communities,” Baulch said, emphasizing how the town’s spirit plays a pivotal role in Emily’s journey.
While the production process wasn’t without its challenges, Baulch reflects on the journey with a sense of gratitude. “The week prior to the shoot was filled with some big events,” she recalled. “My son and husband both required hospital stays, I was working on the Liam Neeson film Road to the Sky, and we had to push our shoot dates.” Despite the setbacks, she praises the dedication of her crew and cast, expressing how “getting everyone to set was an achievement.”
Perhaps one of the most poignant moments of synchronicity came during the final day of shooting. “The day we wrapped, white butterflies took over Geelong. Butterflies symbolize rebirth, hope, and bravery,” Baulch noted, calling it an uncanny match for a film exploring themes of transformation.
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Seeing Lara come to life has been a deeply rewarding experience for Baulch, thanks in part to her talented team. “From my first meeting with producer Natalia Bornay, everything was elevated,” she said. “Olivia Fildes, our lead actor, was incredible. She read the character brief and instantly connected with the material.”
Baulch also expressed joy in working with Darcy Kent, who played Ross. “I wrote the part specifically for Darcy. We trained together years ago, and I’ve always admired his work,” she said. As for her husband, the collaboration extended beyond production, with Dallas editing the film. “Having him involved was a highlight. He took everything to a new level with his attention to detail,” she added.
Now that the film is complete, Lara is in talks with festivals and arts curators for screening opportunities. “We hope to screen publicly in Lara and Geelong soon!” Baulch shared. For those interested in following the film’s journey, updates will be available via her Facebook page and the production company, Dos Hermanas.
Baulch also took a moment to recognise the invaluable support she received from Geelong Waterfront Film. “This group of people truly supports and loves both film and the region. I recommend other filmmakers and actors connect with them. We’re incredibly lucky to have them in our corner.”
Lara may be just getting started on its festival journey, but it’s clear that Baulch’s passion and dedication have already left a lasting impact. Lara is bound to touch the hearts of audiences both in Geelong, and far beyond it.
