Burbank-based filmmaker and her mother share a reel inspiring Mother’s Day story

Twenty-two year old filmmaker Lorena Gordon is impressive at any age. Equal parts inspired, and inspiring, Lorena is quickly garnering a reputation as “one to watch” in the filmmaking world.

Lorena, who discovered early on that her passion for telling stories was a liberating way to express herself, is currently in post-production on the short film Times Like These.

A powerful story based on her family’s real life experience, Times Like These tackles the important, and often ignored, topic of domestic abuse and one woman’s struggle to free herself and her child from her husband’s threatening hands.

Lorena wrote, directed and produced the gripping film, which took more than half her life to make; dedicating it to the woman she calls her hero, her mother, Maria.

“I’ve always felt compelled to tell my mother’s story, and this film is my chance to give her a voice,” said Lorena who relocated to Burbank from New York with her mother four months ago. “My hope for this film is for women to find inspiration from my mother’s perseverance and strength. Her courage has certainly inspired me. I want women to feel empowered if they find themselves in the same situation.”

In the film, Maria is portrayed by Nancy Castro, who receives nothing but praise from both Lorena and her mother for her honest portrayal as Marisol (Maria).

“It is most amazing being on set watching someone that is playing your real life story. Nancy did and wonderful job as Marisol and we remain close,” said Maria who was both shocked and supportive when Lorena first informed her of that she would be making the film. “The film is so real, it is like I am going through it again. It gives me chills. At same time, I thank God for the strength to move on with my life and that the film will encourage others in similar situations. I am honored my story will live on for years and help others.”

As for her daughter, Mabel could not be prouder.

“I have always been close with my Lorena and my son Alex and this has only strengthened the bond the three of us share,” continued Maria who escaped from her abusive husband when her children were four and ten respectively. “I feel blessed that Lorena had the strength and courage to accomplish this.”

Lorena agrees that the whole family is stronger for their shared experience in making Times Like These, noting that she could not have done it without her brother who served as her right hand throughout the entire filmmaking process.

Most intrigued by and passionate about telling stories that explore relationships, the human condition and the many complicated facets of life, Lorena has honed her craft learning from her mentors including Martin Scorsese, who personally encouraged her to make Times Like These. Her production work credits also include the recent blockbuster The Wolf on Wall Street and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty among others.

More information on Lorena Gordon and Times Like These is available at www.tltfilm.com.

-Courtesy Photos

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