Ella Balinska and Hugo Keijzer Discuss Survival Thriller ‘The Occupant’

British actress Ella Balinska and director Hugo Keijzer recently shared insights about their latest film, The Occupant, which delves into themes of survival and emotional resilience. The film follows Abby, played by Balinska, who undertakes a perilous job in the remote Georgian wilderness to save her sister. After a helicopter crash strands her in the mountains, she finds solace through communication with John, portrayed by Rob Delaney, a mysterious figure who guides her amid the harsh conditions.

The narrative unfolds as Abby struggles to maintain her grip on reality, ultimately facing a daunting choice. Balinska described her experience working on The Occupant as a significant journey. “It was a journey and a half, that’s for sure,” she remarked, emphasizing the unexpected challenges encountered during filming. “We had an idea of what we wanted to do when we went into it, and then we were not expecting half of the stuff that we were really getting into.”

In portraying Abby, Balinska noted the character’s relatability. “She’s not a superhero trying to save the world. She is truly just someone going through something very personal,” she explained. This portrayal resonated with her, as she believes everyone has experienced intense emotions. “It’s a journey from being gritty and capable to realizing that there is strength in vulnerability,” Balinska added.

Balinska praised Keijzer’s directorial approach, describing him as a visionary who challenges actors to evoke genuine emotions. “He knows what he wants, and he is a very truthful director,” she stated. “Hugo is really there to challenge you as an actor to bring out the emotion, even if it pushes you into uncomfortable territory.” She appreciated his clarity in vision, especially during long days of filming in demanding locations.

Keijzer shared the extensive process behind the film’s creation, revealing that he began working on the script in 2019. “We had the opportunity to work together on the material,” he said, reflecting on the collaborative nature of the project. He expressed deep affection for Georgia, where the film was shot, calling it his second home after multiple visits to scout locations.

He also highlighted the challenges faced during production, especially concerning weather continuity. “I had many nightmares about snow continuity,” he admitted, referencing scenes filmed on an actual ice lake. Keijzer recounted the stress of ensuring that conditions would be right for crucial scenes, such as Abby falling into the ice. “When we finally arrived to shoot, I felt relieved knowing Ella could carry this whole film,” he said, emphasizing her talent and dedication.

As Balinska reflected on her personal growth through the filming process, she noted the importance of vulnerability. “Being honest and transparent with Hugo about my feelings on set allowed me to discover emotional and physical resilience I didn’t know I had,” she revealed. This exploration of personal strength was a vital part of her character’s journey.

Both Balinska and Keijzer acknowledged the significance of their previous roles in shaping their performances in The Occupant. Balinska stated that her earlier projects prepared her for the stark contrasts in character. “If I hadn’t gone through those experiences, I don’t think I would have been prepared at all,” she explained.

Looking ahead, Balinska described her current focus as doing things that bring her joy, regardless of external expectations. She articulated her definition of success as enjoying the journey of a project, with the destination being a rewarding outcome. “Success for me is ending a process and having really enjoyed the journey,” she said, emphasizing the importance of personal fulfillment.

For fans of the genre, Balinska encouraged a fresh experience with the film. “I think it would be lovely to go into this blind,” she suggested, praising the stunning visuals and the authenticity of the story. “The film is a real celebration of originality,” she added, underscoring the collaborative effort behind it.

Keijzer shared Balinska’s sentiments, stating his pride in creating something genuine. “Regardless of what people think of the story, I’m proud that we made something real,” he concluded. Their combined vision and dedication have culminated in a film that promises to resonate with audiences, showcasing both the beauty of the Georgian landscape and the depths of human emotion.