Article: Artist Spotlight: Maggie Kiley
Artist Spotlight: Maggie Kiley
From the moment I met Maggie, I felt her magnetic energy, it’s the kind that draws you in effortlessly. There’s a rare authenticity to her, a warmth and quiet elegance that made me instantly want to know her better. Having her wear my designs is truly an honor. - Belinda
Tell us a little bit about yourself—who is Maggie? For anyone meeting you for the first time, how would you describe what you do and who you are in this chapter of your life?
Director of film and tv, Mom of two, dreamer, former NYC now LAer, wife to a handsome songwriter and music maker. One green eye one brown eye - forever still figuring it out.
Do you remember the moment you realized storytelling through directing was your path?
When I was very young we put on a production of ANNIE the musical in the backyard, on a porch with sheets strung up as curtains and an audience full of neighbors in lawn chairs. I can remember the experience so clearly, this memory is so visceral. That experience shaped me and definitely made me want to be in some world of imaginary storytelling - world building - something that would bring people all together to experience something. It may have been singing Hard Knock Life but it opened up a world of possibility for little Maggie.
What kind of stories are you most drawn to telling right now?
I do a lot of true crime dramas and am directing a thriller for Netflix right now so certainly drama is a pull for me. What I am most excited by is pulling back layers of characters - so much is happening in our world right now. I think it is important to look at things from different perspectives both as characters and situational experiences. I would love to do an escapist playful romance next though - something with scope and maybe in Paris?!
Is there a signature element or feeling you hope people experience in your work?
Depth of feeling! Heart and humanity.
As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated role, what keeps you grounded and
confident in your voice?
I came up in Television directing with a sisterhood of other women all stepping into a predominantly male field all at once. While things are still not entirely even, things have changed and I feel deeply rooted in my community and an onus to the next generation of directors to set the stage for future success and acceptance.
How do you refill your creative well between big projects?
Community and time with my family. And lots and lots of live theater and films.
Who are the directors (or other creatives) that most inspire your work?
My friend and fellow AFI Directing Workshop for Women alum Siân Heder (Coda) is an incredible filmmaker who chooses to tell stories that focus on underrepresented characters and storylines. She inspires me and so many other directors I think. I am so excited to see what she does next. I love what Coralie Fargeat did with The Substance and Revenge. She puts such a significant stamp on her work- which I find so badass. My husband Matthew Puckett is a prolific songwriter and creator as well, his writing and range in his work: music, movies, musicals never ceases to amaze me and drives me to find more range in my own creative output.
What’s it like witnessing the next generation of storytellers — especially your own
daughter — step into this world with fresh eyes and their own voice?
It is interesting to see a whole new wave of energy and curiosity stepping into the landscape of film and tv. I am blown away by how multi faceted they all are. Both my daughter and son are strong filmmakers with such ease of play in their approach to the visuals. I am constantly inspired seeing what they come up with. They are SO FAST and do all of the jobs, writing, shooting, editing… look out!
Any advice to emerging women filmmakers just starting out?
Trust your instincts! Seize the day and don’t let anyone get in your head.
Your bookshelf is packed! What’s a book you always return to, your personal classic?
Books are my love language. I have been an avid reader since I was a teenager. I love short story collections and will often return to anything by Alice Munro or the O’Henry Prize collections that come out every year!
What’s a recent read that surprised or moved you?
I just finished Rachel Cusk’s Outline -a gorgeous observational novel - assembled with different sections almost like short stories. I am excited to read more of her work.
And what’s one book you think everyone should read at least once in their life?
Evening by Susan Minot - an all time favorite of mine.
Favorite place to watch a movie in LA?
Hands down VIDIOTS in Eagle Rock!
What’s something small that’s bringing you joy lately?
It is Peony season and having a beautiful blooming flower in a tiny vase makes me so happy. That smell and the stunning bloom. We had peonies at our rehearsal dinner when we were married and seeing them in bloom this time of year reminds me of the beginning of my love story.
What do you wear when you want to feel powerful—like you're stepping fully into your main character energy?
A blazer and a heeled boot or my go to: a BEL KAZAN Kami!!
Why do you wear BEL KAZAN? What piece are you loving right now?
The first time I stepped into a Bel Kazan piece I felt both powerful and playful all at once. I love how each piece is so unique, dynamic visually and beautifully timeless.
I am in love with the Janie Dress! Sophisticated, elegant and so comfortable. We were in NYC celebrating our anniversary, we stayed down at 9 Orchard in Dime Square and had a
spectacular afternoon/night on the town. Dinner at my favorite Kiki’s. I loved the ease of the dress, felt dressed up but not overly fancy. I know it will be a staple for me this summer!
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