Helene Galek is a supremely accomplished actor, casting director, and author based in NYC, U.S. She has also been an associate producer of the web series, “That Reminds Me” and Won “Best Supporting Actor” at the Rome Web Festival. Her projects include short films, trailers, web series, documentary voice over, legit theater and musicals. Helene began her casting at Manhattantheatersource (a theater company) and consulted on some of their main-stage productions as well. Some of her most recent projects include: “The Wrong Box” part of the Dream Up Festival in NYC, “Tech Bettys”, a web series, the short films, “Out to Dry” and “Out of the Ash” and feature film, “Chasing Banksy”.
We got a chance to have a conversation with her. Read the full interview:
RajniVohra: What are some of the biggest challenges faced to become a film casting director/producer?What strategies can women employ to break into the highly competitive field of film directing?
Helene Galek: With casting, there are slightly more women in this profession than men- 58.8% according to reports.With film directors, it is a different story- only 28.2% of all directors are female. Big studios and CEO’s are still mainly men and old habits die hard. But it is encouraging to see more female directors with major films and documentaries. I know several female directors in the independent film level and it is a matter of not taking NO for an answer and pushing forward and upward. And the more and more it happens, than the “trust” that Hollywood has that is geared towards white men will begin to shift as we see with more Black and Asian directors as well.
RajniVohra: How can women who have experienced trauma or abuse find healing and support through sisterhood?
Helene Galek: Some women tend to judge other women who have gone through trauma quite harshly or at best, act in a non-supportive way. That is because of fear that the same thing could happen to them so “blaming the victim” is their way of protecting themselves and their fear. For example, when it comes to rape or incest, it’s hard for some to conceive of this happening and there must be a “reason” so that the victim and their behavior tends to be the focus and not the perpetrator. Women need to start looking at the women who have suffered abuse not solely as victims but as whole human beings who were not responsible for the perpetrators’ behavior. Not believing women or needing proof from say, 20 of them, to prosecute one man is what adds further trauma. Women sticking together, supporting those who are afraid to speak up, going forward with them as they speak the truth and get the courage to leave their situation and assisting them to erase any feelings of guilt and responsibility and obtaining professional help and guidance to heal.
RajniVohra:The concept of sisterhood varies across different cultures and communities. What are some strategies for building and strengthening bonds among women, especially in diverse and multicultural settings?
Helene Galek:I find that my talking and expressing thoughts out loud and finding common ground can unite women from different cultures and backgrounds. One always thinks they are the only going through this and no one could possibly understand. Whether it’s cramps or children or friendships or men or even the shared love of a book or film or family history- that is a first step. Women can share affirmations. philosophies, meditations as well so that individual women can become self-actualized even before bonding with other women and joining groups.
RajniVohra: How can women challenge ageist stereotypes and cultural expectations around aging and beauty, how can they celebrate their unique qualities and strengths as they age, and can cultivate a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the blessings and opportunities that come with each new year of life?
Helene Galek: The challenge of the aging and value credit has to start from the inside as well. I tell women to be aware of the self-deprecating statements they say about themselves, the mental photo of themselves to be a certain way because of a number. I believe by not giving in to stereotypes, much like breaking into a male dominated business, and sticking with what makes you feel good and powerful and expressing that in all ways, fights the aging and sex bias. There will always be haters and that usually means your power and self pride and happiness is pushing their buttons. I just read a meme which said, “As to the people who talk behind your back, they are behind you for a reason.” Concentrate on the confidence and wisdom and freedom you obtain as you get older. Rejoice on the choices you get to make now. And don’t isolate yourself from other age groups. We can all teach each other something. Stop glamorizing youth to yourself and others- it wasn’t all that great then, either, if you remember correctly! And if you actually made a list of what you accomplished or some of the things that your friends acknowledged you for, you will feel grateful for so much of your life and that each day is a blessing!
RajniVohra: What is your biggest learning in life?
Helene Galek: My biggest learning is that each day, there is something to learn and something to teach!
RajniVohra: Thank you for sharing your perspective and time