Elizabeth Guest talks about directing and starring in ‘Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off’

Elizabeth Guest in her new film. Photo Courtesy of Elizabeth Guest.

Elizabeth Guest chatted about directing and starring in “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off” and being a filmmaker in the digital age.

How was your experience making the holiday rom-com “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off”? 

It’s hard to sum up the entire experience. From the writing to production to post. Each phase is so unique and rewarding.

The script was actually an adaptation of a web series called “Guest Appearances” so it’s been a universe I’ve been swimming in for a long time.

I’m so grateful I got to make the movie and work with such an amazing cast and crew. I’ve learned so much and I can’t wait to make another one.

What did you like most about your character Lydia?

I like how Lydia doesn’t have the ability to hide what she’s thinking and feeling. There’s no filter.

Even though she’s flawed, she ultimately takes responsibility and wants to learn from her mistakes. 

Was your uncle, the great Christopher Guest, an influence on you growing up?

I think my Uncle Chris was definitely an influence. I grew up going to his movie premieres and not only admiring the work itself but also his ability to bring really talented people together.

I think my favorite part about making things personally is just that — giving talented people a reason to get together. 

How does it feel to be a part of the digital age? (at a time when streaming, technology, and social media are so prevalent)

I’m trying to keep up with the digital age personally. I’m a little bit of an old person in that regard. I love how much you can do now.

Creators can think of something funny and have something online almost immediately. There’s freedom and power in that. 

Were there any moments in your career that have helped define you?

A defining moment for me was when I won an award for my web series at the Austin Film Festival because that gave me the confidence to keep writing and then eventually make the movie based on the series. 

What is your advice for young and emerging actors?

My advice would be to take as many classes as possible – acting, improv, writing all of it. Being busy has always helped me so much and the more I’m doing/creating and not just waiting for opportunities the happier I am.

Community is also so important and it really is a business based on relationships and the more you surround yourself with people you love and admire the better off you’ll be. 

What does the word success mean to you?

I think success is having a goal and accomplishing it or at least doing everything you can to accomplish it.

There’s so much outside of our control in this industry so I think at the end of the day we just have to try to make ourselves proud. 

What would you like to say to our readers about “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off”? (What’s the one thing you want them to get out of it)

I’d love for your readers to have some good laughs and hopefully feel a little lighter after watching – and maybe even take away that the kinder we are to ourselves the kinder we are to everyone else. 

To learn more about Elizabeth Guest, follow her on Instagram.