Jon Voight in Roe v. Wade
“Roe v. Wade” director Cathy Allyn interviewed By Günther Kramer
Great to talk to you Cathy, can you introduce us your film Roe v. Wade?
The film is based on the most famous court case in US History, and no filmmaker has ever told the story.
What served as primary inspiration for your film?
We researched over 40 books, letters, court transcripts, speeches and interviews while writing the screenplay. We would recommend reading “The Hand of God” by Dr. Bernard Nathanson, “Abuse of Discretion” by Clarke Forsythe, “Abortion” by Lawrence Lader, “Aborting America” by Dr. Bernard Nathanson, “The Pro-Choice Movement” by Suzanne Staggenborg.
Did any filmmakers inspire you?
Filmmakers that inspire us include Oliver Stone and Adam McKay.
Did you both know each other before the making of the film? Can you tell us what was it like for two directors to work together? Did you two have any differences regarding your views when making the film?
We knew each other socially before making the film. Directing the film together was a great way to include both a male and female perspective on such a controversial topic.
How did the casting process go? How long did the shooting take? And post-production?
Casting was very challenging due to the heated nature of the subject matter, yet we ended up with a stellar cast. We shot over 4 weeks in Louisiana, Washington DC and New York.
Nick Loeb in Roe v. Wade
What was the decision behind to have Nick Loeb both act and direct the film? Did Nick immediately wish to play the lead role, or was it a decision made later?
Nick has a very similar personal journey to that of Dr. Bernard Nathanson which inspired both the making of the film and the casting choice.
Does the film carry a specific message?
The film’s message is that there is more to the story of Roe v. Wade than most people know. The media had a tremendous influence over the minds of the American people, which is still true today, regardless of whether or not their reporting is based on the truth.
How would you introduce the film to a person who is not familiar with the subject?
The film is based on the most famous court case in American history that legalized Abortion.
Is it difficult for a filmmaker with right-wing views to work in Hollywood?
The United States prides itself on freedom of speech, and it is important for filmmakers of all viewpoints to be able to express themselves freely. In today’s America, the viewpoints that are considered divergent from the popular politically correct beliefs are often challenged and rejected.
What are your views regarding the film’s topic and the situation today in the US?
The film is extremely timely for the current conversation about the Supreme Court in America, and who will get to nominate the next Justices.
