By Cassandra West
Rakel Garðarsdóttir is the co-director and co-producer of “Useless,” a documentary that looks at why food and fashion waste have become a pressing social and environmental problem, and what people can do to change it. Garðarsdóttir lives and works in Reykjavík, Iceland.
One Earth Film Festival had a few questions for Rakel about the making of the documentary.
Director Rakel Garðarsdóttir
Q. What was the impetus for making the documentary?
A. I wanted to spread the word on the effect that food waste has on the environment and the economy. Although it’s a huge problem, it’s easy to tackle. All we have to do is start - and it all begins with each and every one of us. I´m hoping this film acts as an eye-opener and inspires people to stop wasting food.
Q. How long did it take the make the documentary?
A. It took almost 2 years from idea to premiere.
Q. Did you experience any personal transformation during the making of the documentary?
A. I was aware of the problem - but I learned so much and was quite inspired by all the great people we met and interviewed. So YES I felt inspired and learned a great deal.
Q. Did you have to overcome any particular challenges or barriers in getting the documentary completed?
A. Like most filmmakers, the funding is always the hardest.
Q. What led you to become a director/producer?
A. I have been working for a company called Vesturport, producing theater and film. I always liked the "chaotic" style of producing — that you have to wear so many hats.
Q. Who or what has most influenced your filmmaking approach?
A. My brother and husband have influenced my approach.
Q. Was there any character or subject in the documentary who left the biggest impression on you?
A. I´m a huge fan of everyone we interviewed. That´s why they all were selected.
“Useless” will be screened twice during the One Earth Film Festival:
10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Sat., March 7, Pickwick Theatre, Theater 2, 5 S. Prospect Ave., Park Ridge. Admission $8. Reserve tickets here.
11 a.m., Sat., March 14, Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago. After the film, participate in a live video Q&A with director Rakel Garðarsdóttir. Reserve tickets here.