Natives have always been featured of myself.”
Another aspect of the story that she found intriguing was the simplicity of the narrative.
Freeland notes that the idea has never occurred to her before. But, when she thinks about it, “We played in, on and around the tracks. And, never would have had this idea, in a million years, to write this script. What I like about the idea is it’s so simple. When I read it, I was like ‘Holy crap, this could happen in real life.’ If I wanted to hop a train, right now, I could probably rob it. This is such a genius idea.” Freeland is very appreciative of the opportunities that she’s been afforded. She has earned her accolades through skill and hard work. But, she credits Robert Redford and the Sundance Institute for helping to harness and develop those skills. In fact, Redford made it a point of emphasis to set up programs specifically for aspiring Native filmmakers.
“I went through the Sundance Director’s Lab, the Screenwriter’s Lab and the Native Lab,” said Freeland. “I would say if I’m able to have a career, it’s because of Sundance. For me, that was my film school. They challenged me to be a better filmmaker. I’m beyond grateful for both the film programs and the film festival.”
Despite showing her own films twice, and being a multiple time visitor at Sundance, Freeland is still excited to attend. The films that are screened are a very, very small percentage of what’s actually submitted for consideration.
“To get in one time is amazing and fantastic,” said Freeland. “But, to get in a second time… Each time is extremely difficult. I’m beyond excited to have the opportunity to go back.”
Deidra and Laney Rob A Train is being billed as a Netflix original film. It will make its premier on Netflix on March 17th, in 190 countries.
The film already has a distribution deal lined up, which is outside of the norm.
“We’re extremely fortunate [to] have distribution. We know the film has a home,” said Freeland. “It’s nice going into the festival without having to worry about trying to make a sale.”
The film has multiple screening times and dates during the Sundance Film Festival. A complete listing can be found at: http://www.sundance.org/ projects/deidra-laney-rob-a train.