by FilmInk Staff
Maria Isabel de la Ossa directs writer/actress Michelle Rouady’s debut feature toward production wrap
Feature film My Inner Child, written, produced and self-funded by Michelle Rouady and directed by Maria Isabel de la Ossa, is set to wrap production, marking a major milestone for the heartfelt drama.
My Inner Child follows a circle of adults at different stages of life as they confront the child within (the part that longs to live more freely, honestly, and joyfully). The film is an exploration of identity, self-discovery, and the tension between adult responsibility and inner freedom. It centres on the pressure between societal duties and authentic living, offering a reflective story about rediscovering joy before time runs out.
Michelle Rouady, who wrote the screenplay and stars as lead character Michelle, says the journey has been “a labour of love,” with her script loosely imitating her own life.
“From the moment I began writing the script, I knew this film would be something special. It’s been years in the making, and now, as we approach the finish line, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved,
“Independent filmmaking requires a huge amount of commitment from everyone involved. With fewer resources and tighter schedules, the team has had to stay dedicated and willing to work hard for our shared creative vision.”
While My Inner Child is loosely based on Michelle’s personal experiences, it also weaves in pieces of other people’s stories and perspectives to give it a broader emotional truth. Some stories were inspired directly by the film’s strong female cast which features women predominantly over 40 (which was an intentional casting decision by Michelle).
Acting as co-star alongside Michelle is Tahlia Crinis who plays lead character Frankie, along with supporting roles played by Amanda Benson, Clara Helms, Sariah Roberts, Ken Welsh and Lawrence Ola with cameo appearances from musicians Curtis Finch, Robert Cecil and Caitlin Lopez.
Much of the film’s inspiration derives from the accompanying music soundtrack with Michelle acting as lyricist co-writing 23 songs and working alongside talented upcoming Australian artist/musicians and producers Jono Fernandez and Byron Mark to bring the songs to life. The My Inner Child soundtrack can be found on Spotify.
Director Maria Isabel de la Ossa (Carmen and Bolude) says that the project is being positioned as a distinctive independent feature with an emotional, character-driven premise that blends introspection with cinematic storytelling.
“What drew me to the project was its sense of whimsical style which takes me back to that Spielberg, childlike nostalgia. I had goosebumps countless times watching this story come to life and I know audiences will relate in the same way,
“As this beautiful film moves toward completion, it’s shaping up as a deeply personal feature that speaks to audiences navigating the pressures of adulthood while searching for connection, purpose, and a sense of self.”
With a strong crew helmed by Calum Stewart as Cinematographer, Alyssa Lee as 1stAC, Dominic Kersh on Sound, Zandro Tenorio as head gaffer and Martin Ponferrada as Editor, My Inner Child is set to make waves on the Aussie film circuit, with ambitions to garner attention abroad.
ABOUT MY INNER CHILD: My Inner Child is a feature film written, produced, and starring Michelle Rouady. Directed by Maria Isabel de la Ossa, the film explores themes of authenticity, emotional freedom, and self-reconnection through the lives of adults confronting their inner child.
