One of Australia’s most respected young filmmakers, Gracie Otto has directed the likes of Gigi Hadad, Sarah Silverman and Nicole Richie. Here she dishes on her favourite things and daily must-haves.
Describe yourself in 3 words.
Lively, eccentric and focused.
Is there anything that you do religiously each day?
Not really. I like to mix it up and my routine is usually very different each day. But I love an iced coffee!
What is the most read book on your bookshelf?
I’m not really a huge reader, I prefer watching movies. I do love the old memoirs of Hollywood stars like Ava Gardner and Grace Kelly though.
What’s your morning routine?
I like to go to Hot Dog Yoga in Double Bay and then have my breakfast. I find Yoga great for my posture as well as good for the mind.
What’s your evening routine?
I love a vodka soda, although not every night! It depends what wavelength I’m on. Sometimes I like to go out and seek stories and inspiration, hide in my room and draw from those experiences or write and catch up on new movies or stand-up comedy.
You can only take five things from your home to a deserted island – what are they?
My two cats, Bogart and Bluebelle! Also some pasta ingredients (I could hopefully pick some tomatoes and grow some basil on the island), my David Lynch artwork, and some sunscreen.
The best beauty advice you’ve been given?
Less is more. I don’t wear much makeup and my beauty routine is quite basic but works for me. I’ve become a fan of Drunk Elephant and I find that when I remember to use it, people compliment me on my skin.
Who do you most admire and why?
I love strong, independent women and female filmmakers like Tina Fey, Gillian Armstrong, Sofia Coppola, Amy Poehler and Greta Gerwig.
What’s the best gift that you’ve ever received?
A Rolex from an ex-boyfriend.
What’s your favourite place in the world and what makes it special?
I love Paris as it’s the first place that I lived after high school and even though it was tough living there, it was the best experience of my life.
Where do you look for inspiration?
Michael White, who I made my first feature documentary on, is my biggest inspiration. So is my dear friend Samantha Rebillet. Both of them have passed on, but I constantly think about them. And my mother and father, of course!
What are you most proud of?
My documentary on Michael White, The Last Impresario.
