Q&A with Damien Hauser

We chat with director Damien Hausser about his feature film, Blind Love. From the moment that sparked his filmmaking journey to how his African-European background shapes his work, Damien shares what makes this film so special. As his career grows, he reflects on his future goals and the exciting milestones ahead.

What and who inspired you to step into the world of filmmaking, and was there a particular moment or story that sparked your journey?

I can’t really remember one specific moment where I fully decided to become a filmmaker. It all developed quite organically. When I was seven, my dad bought me a kids’ camera for Christmas. Not long after, I started making films with my neighbors. Back then, it felt more like a game. Over time, the projects got bigger and I started taking it more seriously.

Your work often bridges African and European worlds. How has your own dual identity shaped the stories you choose to tell or produce?

I think it’s had a huge impact on my films and the kind of stories I tell. Growing up in Switzerland with a Kenyan mother and Swiss father, my Kenyan films are naturally shaped by that perspective. I try to stay aware of that whenever I write a story. That said, I’m very grateful for it, because I always try to tell universal stories which connect people and cultures.

How would you describe yourself as a filmmaker?

I don’t really know how I’d describe myself. But as a director, the vibe on set is super important to me. If the work isn’t fun, you won’t last long in this business. I also love improvising with actors.

Tell us about your first feature film Blind Love, the genesis of the film and what makes it special…

Blind Love was my very first feature film. I wrote a fifty-page script in two weeks and just started shooting right after. Most of it was improvised and the budget was super small. But I’m incredibly grateful for that film because it showed me that it’s actually possible to just go out and shoot something. It really took away my fear of making feature films.

You’re a young filmmaker with quite a bit of time ahead of you, but in your short career you’ve already been selected to some of the biggest festivals in the world like POFF or Red Sea. What milestones or objectives do you give yourself for the rest of your journey?

I don’t really know where this journey will take me, but I always try to grow with every film I make. My dream is to one day make a full living from filmmaking. And I really hope my love for it never fades.