Shannon Rowbury on the big screen
World Championship 1500m bronze medallist Shannon Rowbury talks about her interest and passion for film. Spikesmag.com reveals more…
You majored in English and theatre, is this right?
SR: Yes, with a certificate in film, video and digital and I studied a Masters in film studies and women’s studies.
If I wasn’t a runner I’d probably be down in LA trying to get into the film industry, in film production and having a hand in a movie. I’ve done my own documentary and I’ve also started a film making festival. (Duke’s 24-hour Film Festival). It is an event drawn towards people who are interested in film, but have not had the chance. They have 24 hours to film and edit a short screenplay.
Why such an interest in film production?
SR: I always thought I wanted to get into acting (but) I became more involved in the direction when I started college.
I’ve always enjoyed writing, but I wanted something more creative, a little but more performative. I think I was missing that from dancing and that’s why I got into theatre studies. I was limited by the confines of theatrical space. Then I came across film and I loved the possibilities that it presented.
So you would want to be the producer and not the movie director?
SR: Probably the producer. The producer who would manage the project, talk to the screenwriter and director to oversee the different stages and make sure the schedule is met.
What is your favourite genre of films?
SR:
I’m very interested in the visual aspect, so I really look out for the directors. I also like films that are kind of quirky, a little bit offbeat but interesting. I like the
Coen (Joel and Ethan) brothers and
Sofia Coppola.
Does your interest and background in films have any similarities to life on the track?
SR: In both you need a plan and a schedule and there are always challenges that arise. I’ve done other creative things like writing my blog, which I thoroughly enjoy doing.
I need something that keeps me mentally stimulated. I think it is important to have some sort of balance and mental outlet, because you do so much physically as an athlete.
What is your next film project?
SR: I am working now with some other athletes to set up a
running club and training group in the Bay Area of San Francisco. I’m working on that and as part of that we are trying to do more video coverage, so we get to play around with videos for that.
If an actress could play you in a film who would it be and why?
SR: I do not even know. It would be someone who was smart and witty and attractive. If I could find someone like that? I don’t really know. Hopefully someone good.
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