Q&A With a Louisiana Film Prize Top 20 Short Film: ‘Laundromat’

Louisiana Film Prize Festival is October 9 through 12. Here's a closer look at one of the Top 20 films, "Laundromat."

"Laundromat" is a comedy and drama written and directed by Alejandra Valera. We asked her a few questions about her short film.

What is your film about?

In LAUNDROMAT, we take a look at the relationships we create with strangers we encounter, and how friends can become a new sort of family. Laundromat deals with a man, woman and child who meet up weekly to do their laundry, and find themselves making a connection in a life that is fleeting and so brief. 

What kind of message are you trying to get across in your film?

The film is all about connections; connections that people can make in the most unexpected places and situations.  Those little gems we find and friendships we make, that sometimes miraculously appear when we need them the most.

Where in Northwest Louisiana did you film?

We filmed in Shreveport at that fantastic Laundry Basket.  The owners, Kate and Reggie, were so helpful and patient and really went above and beyond to help us.  They offered they place of business with such grace and trust, it was wonderful.

What were your impressions about Northwest Louisiana, specifically the Shreveport-Bossier area?

We live in Chicago, but my husband was actually born in Bossier and raised in Natchitoches.  For him, anytime we come down to Louisiana is like coming back to his childhood.  Everyone is very friendly and willing to help.

Would you film in this area again?

This is our second time filming in Shreveport.  The first time was for our short film “A Man of Limited Emotional Means” back in 2012.  That film was in Louisiana Film Prize’s inaugural festival year.  This area has such rich character, it has so much to offer filmmakers.

$50,000 is on the line! What do you plan on doing with the money if you win?

Pay bills is such a generic answer – but you know it’s true!  We’d also put aside some money for our feature that I am currently writing called “The Last of the Gentlemen Magicians”.

Why should someone vote for your film?

If LAUNDROMAT speaks to you at any level, you should vote for our film.  If it made you feel something and relate -- whether it’s the humor in it, the performances, or even the central message, you should vote for our film.  Films, whether they are shorts or features, should serve as a medium to create connections.  If you like it, vote for it.