This episode features writer and director Ava Maria Safai, whose debut feature Foreigner premiered at Fantasia Festival and is making waves in the indie film world. A multi-hyphenate artist who began her creative journey in music, Ava shares her approach to building unforgettable characters, crafting scripts with emotional depth, and bringing a distinct visual style to the screen.

Hosted by filmmaker Kyle McCachen, this conversation explores Ava’s transition from musician to director, how she collaborates with actors, and why personal storytelling is her creative engine. Whether you're dreaming up your first film or deep in production, this episode offers grounded insight and inspiration for filmmakers at every level.

To learn more about Set Tracker’s mission to support the next generation of filmmakers, visit www.settracker.com.

Follow Ava on Instagram @avamariasafai and check out her film @foreignerthefilm.
More about her work at www.avamariasafai.com.