IN CONVERSATION WITH PAOLA RAMONES

words by MAIRE-PAULINE CESARI

Numéro Netherlands Digital presents Paola Ramones, a talented Mexican actress and producer. Growing up among actors and comedians, Paola initially pursued audiovisual production, debuting as a filmmaker with her short film “Renacer” in 2020. Her versatility shines through roles like Moribunda in “Las Leyendas: El Origen” and as a photographer for Peso Pluma’s music video “Peso Pesado.” Currently, Paola is furthering her film studies in Los Angeles, where she has directed over seven short films set to premiere at various festivals.

What sparked your passion for cinema and filmmaking? Was there a particular moment or experience that inspired you?
My entire childhood was immersed in cinema, thanks to my father, who introduced me to the world of movies. I vividly remember watching films with him, constantly asking how things were made. He always answered my questions patiently, fueling my passion for cinema.

Are there any actors or characters that influenced your decision to pursue this career? 
Definitely my dad.

Could you share the story behind your debut short film ‘Renacer’? What inspired you to write and direct it?
Like everyone, I was profoundly affected by the pandemic. It struck during my final year of high school, a time filled with mixed emotions. Writing became my escape. I asked my father to read a script I had been working on for weeks. That script became my first short film. I immediately asked my father to act in it. We found a production company in Acapulco, “Vertebra de tiburón”, that loved the idea, and together, we created ‘Renacer’, adhering to safety protocols, but putting our hearts into it. That short film helped me realize I was on the right path. It was a wonderful experience that will stay with me forever.

You’ve taken on diverse roles in your projects, from acting to assistant directing. What do you enjoy most about working behind the camera compared to being in front of it?
In my latest movie, ‘Candidato Honesto’, I experienced both the 3rd assistant director and the actor’s worlds simultaneously. I realized that being behind the camera felt like being in a limbo between reality and a world I was helping to create. I love assisting on set, whether as a sound operator or even assistant camera. I’m eager to learn new things and help wherever I can, but of course, I love directing.

How do you navigate the challenges that come with wearing so many hats?
Therapy has been instrumental in helping me connect with myself and understand who Paola truly is.

Tell us about your experience as Moribunda in ‘Las Leyendas: El Origen’ and ‘La Leyenda de los Chaneques’. What drew you to voice acting in animation?
I love animation, so when I was offered the opportunity to audition for a voice role, I was thrilled. It was a significant experience and I am eager to continue working in voice acting. It feels like magic when you see the final result and a character has your voice and essence.

Recently, you worked as a photographer on the music video ‘Peso Pesado’. How does your background in filmmaking influence your approach to photography?
This opportunity arose when the director, Fernando Lugo, invited me to be on set. I asked how I could help and it turned out I did film photography. Filmmaking and photography complement each other well and this experience helped me capture the shots I envisioned on film, so each shot was really important.

In Los Angeles, you’ve directed over seven short films. Can you share a bit about these projects and what themes or stories they explore?
My style has evolved since my first short film, but my works consistently explore deeply personal themes or topics that move me. Recently, I’ve been listening to my imagination and experimenting with new colors and ideas. I also have a passion for fashion and I plan to incorporate it into my films. I’m excited to continue discovering myself and my artistic approach, always staying true to my essence.

What are your goals or aspirations as a filmmaker and actress for the next few years? Any specific types of projects you hope to work on?
I aspire to be happy and inspired by creativity, using my art to connect with people. I hope my work gains more visibility and I aim to complete some scripts I’m developing. In a few years, I plan to create my first feature film. As an actress, I want to challenge myself and start performing in English.

How does fashion intersect with your life and work? Is it a form of expression for you?
Fashion is indeed a form of expression. Clothes are an extension of one’s self and mind, capable of conveying more than words. I enjoy experimenting with fashion because it allows you to tell a whole story through what you wear.

talent PAOLA RAMONES
photographer FRANCES ROU
stylist MICHELLE ORTIZ
makeup LUIS ACOSTA
hair BIBIANA ROSALES
styling assistant VANESSA LÓPEZ
production STEP ON
fashion editor TIMI LETONJA