Karina Sorelli: From Stunt Performer to Multi-Hyphenate Filmmaker
French-born actress and stunt performer Karina Sorelli is making waves in the entertainment industry, showcasing her multifaceted talents as a writer, director, and producer. Her upcoming projects, a short film titled "#FollowMe" and a mini-series called "The End of Us: Byte Back," demonstrate her creative vision and commitment to exploring complex themes in the digital age. Sorelli’s journey, marked by resilience and a passion for storytelling, is an inspiring testament to her determination to carve a unique path in a competitive industry.
"#FollowMe," which has already garnered recognition at several film festivals, delves into the captivating world of social media and its impact on young people. The film centers on Sofia, a young girl whose life revolves around the online world, oblivious to the potential real-world consequences. The short has been lauded for its insightful script, earning Best Script (Unreleased) at the Vesuvius International Film Festival and Best Screenplay at the Monthly Indie Shortz. It was also a finalist at the prestigious Paris International Short Film Festival, further solidifying Sorelli’s emerging talent as a filmmaker.
Sorelli’s latest endeavor, "The End of Us: Byte Back," is an ambitious action/sci-fi/drama mini-series that explores the profound influence of social media and artificial intelligence in the wake of the 2023 industry strikes. The series examines the ongoing global conversation surrounding the impact of AI on the job market, adding a timely and relevant layer to its narrative. Sorelli takes on the triple role of writer, director, and producer for the project, collaborating with a talented team including DOPs Fair Mindal and James Huynh, editor Sean Courtney Lewis, and sound recordist Farley Roth. The first episode is slated for release on YouTube in the coming weeks, with subsequent episodes following weekly.
Sorelli’s inspiration for "The End of Us: Byte Back" stems from Paul Haggis’s acclaimed 2004 film, "Crash." She aims to create a commentary on the dwindling human connection in an increasingly digital world. Sorelli observes the pervasive nature of technology and its tendency to isolate individuals, stating, "It’s preposterous that we never look at each other anymore." The mini-series promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of the complex interplay between technology and human interaction, a theme that resonates deeply in contemporary society. Sorelli is actively seeking funding for a second season, demonstrating her commitment to expanding this important narrative.
Sorelli’s journey in the entertainment industry began with theatre school in France before she relocated to Melbourne 16 years ago. While she has accumulated credits in numerous short films and television series like "Halifax: Retribution" and "Neighbours," she faced challenges securing roles that embraced her European accent. Often asked to adopt an English accent during auditions, Sorelli found herself navigating a landscape that sometimes prioritized conformity over authenticity.
This experience, combined with her love of martial arts and admiration for performers like Tom Cruise and Zoe Bell, led her to pursue stunt work. She honed her skills across the six categories recognized in Australia’s grading system: body control, heights, vehicles, animals, fire, and water. Sorelli acknowledges the inherent risks of stunt work, stating, "It is a very exciting, dangerous job. We all have injuries at some stage, but we are passionate about it and love it." Despite a breakthrough performance doubling for Helen Sawires in "Bay of Fires," she found establishing consistent work in the stunt industry challenging, particularly as she became more aware of the physical toll and recovery time associated with increasingly demanding stunts.
Sorelli’s career took a pivotal turn when she began staying on set after her stunt work to observe the filmmaking process. Her keen attention to detail and willingness to learn led to opportunities in various production roles, including script supervision on the unreleased feature "Kill Me, Heal Me." This experience ignited a passion for storytelling, culminating in her decision to write and direct her own projects. She emphasizes her belief in the universality of storytelling, stating, "I think we all have a story to tell, and I wanted to write my own version of what I observed."
Sorelli credits networking as a crucial factor in bringing her projects to fruition. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and trust, working with a team of around 30 individuals, many of whom she has collaborated with previously. This emphasis on building strong working relationships underscores her belief in the collective effort required to create compelling film and television. Looking ahead, Sorelli is determined to gain further momentum in both her stunt and filmmaking careers. She views her mini-series as a launching pad for future projects, expressing her desire to showcase her diverse talents and contribute meaningfully to the entertainment industry. With her drive, talent, and multifaceted skills, Karina Sorelli is poised to make a significant impact in the years to come.