Hollywood-Asia: Kate Winslet: Directorial Debut "Goodbye, June" Based on a Script by Her Son. Interview with Asel Sherniyazova
Kate Winslet made her directorial debut with the film Goodbye, June. The film was released in limited theaters on December 12, and starting December 24, it will be available to watch on Netflix worldwide.
The plot of the film is an intimate family drama with elements of subtle humor, where a large family rushes to gather around the bed of a seriously ill relative. Against the backdrop of hospital corridors, pubs, and ordinary places, the characters experience loss in different ways, showing practicality, denial, care, and humor as a way to cope with pain. This film touches on themes of love, farewell, and the necessity of having conversations that often lack the courage until life forces them to begin.
The screenplay was written by Kate Winslet's son and is based on personal experience: after the death of her grandmother in 2017, the large family came together at the last moment, and the feeling of unity "we are all here because of one woman" became the foundation for the story. Initially, the text was created as a school assignment at a London screenwriting school, but later turned into a full-fledged project for the screen.
In an interview with the news agency AKIpress, Kate shared her experience working as a director, the importance of authenticity, and why this film holds special significance for her.
Interview
Asel Sherniyazova: News agency AKIpress, Kyrgyzstan. Hello, Kate. It's nice to see you.
Kate Winslet: Hello, it's a pleasure to meet you.
Asel Sherniyazova: I'm very pleased as well. First of all, I want to congratulate you on your successful directorial debut. Your film looks very confident. Were there moments during the filming process that surprised you, even despite your extensive experience on set?
Kate Winslet: I was surprised by how effectively I was able to plan each day. I was impressed by how we managed to organize the shooting process. We worked in winter, and the conditions were quite challenging due to the cold. I had only 35 days for filming, of which I worked with Helen Mirren for 16. That's a very short time, and it was an eye-opener for me how important preparation is. I also remember some incredible takes that became key moments in the film. For example, the take with Tim Spall when he was singing in the pub — it was just amazing. I was happy with the process of working, as the team was truly wonderful and supportive.
Asel Sherniyazova: Thank you for your candid words. Your film is full of sincerity. Have you ever realized in life that authenticity is more important than achievements and awards?
Kate Winslet: For me, authenticity has always been at the center of everything. That's how I live and continue to live. When "Titanic" came out, I faced a lot of pressure from the media, which criticized me precisely for my sincerity. It made me worry that I could lose myself and my love for the work that became a part of my life. I have realized that authenticity is what helps overcome difficulties, and for me, that is the most important thing.
Asel Sherniyazova: Thank you very much, I wish you good luck!
Kate Winslet: Thank you very much. All the best!
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