Victoria U. Bell is an avid actress, film director, screenwriter, and producer. Born and raised in the Republic of Moldova during the communist occupation, she formed a passion for film at an early age and was inspired by her country’s rich culture and history. She started to write poems and short stories which she later developed into scripts that she produced, directed, and starred in as the principal role.
She’s now in post-production on her first feature film, Heir of The Witch, a psychological horror film inspired by her family’s past and her grandmother who was a Moldovan witch.
The film’s story involves an underprivileged seamstress, haunted by her past, who seeks love and acceptance in high society but is faced with a curse from her evil roots. Anna flees to America with her aunt at a young age, hoping for a bright future away from her turbulent past.
We spoke to Bell recently about her upcoming film, the inspiration behind its personal story, and where she goes from here.
ROH: Thank you so much for agreeing to do this interview. It’s a pleasure to speak with you!
Victoria: It is a pleasure and thank you for taking the time to be here and for providing a space for independent filmmakers.
ROH: Not only are you a writer and director, but you’re also an actress, poet, and producer. That’s a lot of hats! Please introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about yourself.
Victoria: I’m originally from the Republic of Moldova. I grew up on a farm and our animals were my only friends. I’ve always loved the aspect of storytelling. I would spend my nights reading books by candlelight (we often didn’t have electricity in our village) and for as long as I can remember I’ve always loved to write. I’d write poems and stories. My essays were always praised by my teachers, and I often helped my colleagues to write theirs too. I’ve always felt that I was meant to create impactful stories. I envisioned a life as a journalist living in Paris, but after graduating college I came to visit America and I fell in love with this country. Now, it’s been my home for the past 18 years.
ROH: You founded your own independent film production company in 2017 called Pasha Entertainment which is based in Charlotte, NC. What opportunities do you feel the area proves for filmmakers?
Victoria: There’s a lot of great talent here, and a lot of great films were made here back when NC had substantial state incentives, which were sadly taken away. Now that incentives are gradually being reinstated and improved, some of the studios are slowly coming back. NC is also rich with culture and history, not to mention beautiful scenery that would entice any filmmaker.
ROH: What attracted you to filmmaking and specifically the horror genre?
Victoria: Filmmaking has been my lifelong ambition. For the longest time, I felt unworthy of such a profound and awe inspiring artform. Ten years ago, I was facing the hardest chapter of my life. I turned inward and searched for what I was missing. I listened intently and the answer was steadfast and undeviating – film. At the time I had no experience and no support, but I plunged in whole-heartedly. I took every class I could – scriptwriting, directing, producing, and of course acting. I originally planned for a thriller to be my directorial debut but this story that was hidden deep inside had to be told and the best way to tell it turned out to be a horror film. I have several scripts that I have written. We’ll see where they will take me…
ROH: How has having an international perspective on the world influenced your filmmaking? Are you able to see themes and techniques in Western filmmaking in a different light based on your own personal experiences?
Victoria: I grew up watching Russian movies but wasn’t a fan due to the soviet control of my country. But as I grew up, went to college, and eventually moved to the states, I have been exposed to many cultures and points of view. During this time, I came to appreciate both the western and the eastern outlook and means of expression. It has brought a unique perspective to my filmmaking as I can see through a distinctive lens.
ROH: What inspired you to use your own family history as the basis for the story of your first feature film, Heir of the Witch?
Victoria: I am a very amiable person, and this is reflected in all aspects of my life. I like to indulge in deep conversations and share my experiences with people. I’m just doing it on a bigger stage.
ROH: What drew you to play the lead, Anna in the movie?
Victoria: Originally, I was going to cast the role of Anna, as she was written to be a teenager. But it was impossible to find someone who could bring her to life in the light I envisioned. I searched for Anna nationwide but couldn’t find her. So, I revisited the role and decided to play her myself, since I already knew her intimately. Ultimately, it was a therapeutic and enlightening adventure within myself, and my hopes are that the audience will feel it and experience it.
ROH: How does Heir to the Witch stands out from other horror movies?
Victoria: It’s a captivating story with twists and turns that hold you till the very end. All the while, there’s a feeling of fear and dread that leaves you with a delightfully unsettling chill true horror fans will appreciate.
ROH: When can audiences expect to watch Heir to the Witch?
Victoria: It will be available to rent or purchase on August 4th 2023 through various platforms and eventually on all the streaming platforms. Prior to that, we will have a red-carpet premiere. More details on the premier coming very soon!
ROH: In addition to Heir to the Witch, you also have several other projects in the works, including your next feature film, entitled 5. Can you talk about the inspiration behind that film and what audiences can look forward to from its story?
Victoria: Oh, 5 is going to be a fun rollercoaster ride of psychological twists and turns with a totally new and fresh perspective! Again, this also pulls from different parts of my life experiences and then gets elaborated on. I cannot wait to start working on it! I am giddy with excitement! We have already filmed the concept trailer and it looks phenomenal!
ROH: What is next for you and Pasha Entertainment?
Victoria: More movies with powerful stories. I can’t see myself ever letting go of this passionate fire of filmmaking that has given me a new, wonderful view on life. The sky is the limit!
ROH: Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us. It was such a pleasure talking with you!
Victoria: Thank you for all that you do for the filming community, To everyone who’s going to watch the movie, please leave a review and let me know your thoughts. I can’t wait to share my creative gift with you all! Much Love to everyone! Muah!
Special thanks to Victoria Bell for graciously taking the time to be interviewed and Pat Moore of Pasha Entertainment for her assistance in arranging the interview.
You can visit the official website of Heir to the Witch here and view a list of Victoria’s film credits on her IMDb page.
Heir to the Witch is set to release worldwide on streaming platforms on August 4th, 2023.
