What is it really like working on an independent film set like Alien Echo?

Behind the scenes on Alien Echo is a mix of new talent, experienced creatives, and people stepping onto a film set for the very first time. Everyone brings a different story, and that is what makes filmmaking what it is.

Marquis – Taking the Opportunity

Marquis joined the production as an extra, playing a receptionist, after hearing about the project through Facebook and connections.

For her, it was all about taking the opportunity and gaining experience. Being based in Perth while filming was happening made it an easy yes. What stood out most was the chance to meet new people, connect with others in the industry, and learn from their experiences.

Beau and Jasmine – Lighting the Story

Beau, the gaffer, and Jasmine, the assistant gaffer, found their way onto the project through connections and word of mouth.

Beau came from a background in photography and videography and said he simply fell into the film industry.

Jasmine’s journey came through working on other productions and building connections on set.

Both spoke about the satisfaction of shaping the lighting and then seeing that contribution on screen. Being able to say that they placed a light that defines a moment in the film is a big part of the reward.

Ashley McKenna – Leading as Lola

Ashley McKenna, who plays Lola, brings strong experience to the role, having worked on more than 50 projects across film and theatre.

For her, every project is a chance to explore a new character. She is excited to see the final film on the big screen and to watch how everything comes together after the work that has gone into it.

Justin – Learning through every project

Justin has worked with me across multiple projects, including Mother's Tongue.

For him, every opportunity is about learning. Acting allows him to draw on personal life experiences and bring real emotion into his performance. He sees filmmaking as a continuous process of growth, learning from the crew, the cast, and every moment on set.

Extras – First steps into film

For many of the extras, this was their first or second time on a film set.

There was a shared excitement about simply being there, watching actors work, and experiencing the behind the scenes process. For some, it is the beginning of a bigger goal to become actors and build a career in film.

They spoke about wanting to gain experience, meet people, and take those first steps into the industry.

The joy of acting

Across multiple cast members, a common theme emerged.

Acting offers freedom. The ability to step into a completely different life and experience something outside of your own reality. Whether it is playing a character far removed from who you are or expressing emotion through performance, that creative release is what draws people in.

It is also about connection. The idea that someone watching might see themselves in a character and feel understood.

The excitement of seeing it all come together

Many cast members spoke about what they are most excited for, and it always comes back to the same thing.

Seeing the final film.

Whether it is a specific scene like the more intense moments in the story or simply watching how everything connects through editing, sound, and music, there is a real anticipation to see the finished product on the big screen.

Director’s reflection

As the writer and director of Alien Echo, the idea began as a simple concept. A father and daughter listening for alien signals.

From there, the story grew into something deeper. A daughter repeating the mistakes of her father and needing to break that cycle to change her future.

The production itself was a challenge, with multiple locations and timelines, from a 1990s style workshop to a modern science lab and external night scenes. But those challenges led to creative solutions and some incredible contributions from cast and crew.

A shared creative journey

What stands out most from these behind the scenes interviews is simple.

Everyone is here to learn. To connect. To create.

From first time extras to experienced crew, from actors building their careers to creatives finding their way into the industry, Alien Echo is a shared journey.

And that is what filmmaking is all about.

If you’d like to follow my filmmaker journey, from behind‑the‑scenes moments through to festival screenings, subscribe to my YouTube channel, where I’ll be sharing updates, insights, and the creative process as the documentary comes to life.