NYC Subway Entrance / I AM WOMAN.

PRODUCTION DESIGNER

Title: I AM WOMAN Opening Sequence: An Allegory for Helen Reddy's Journey to Fame

The opening sequence of IAM WOMAN is a powerful allegory for the protagonist's iconic journey to fame. The scene features Helen riding the New York subway in 1966, with the iconic song "You Are My World" playing in the background.

As Helen emerges from the darkness of the subway platform, she walks past a billboard that advertises a sexist campaign from the mid-1960s, wearing the same costume as the person on the billboard, and the background colour of the billboard is the same as the subway wall set pieces. The brand advertised is 'Hellen's' tomato sauce.

The scene is symbolic in many ways. By having Helen appear out of the darkness, approaching the billboard, and then walking confidently past it and upward into the bright light, the scene represents her journey from the past, through the present, and into the future.

The subway entrance was a set piece built offsite and moved onto location in Martin Place Station in Sydney. Since it was a public working train station, the crew was only able to shoot on a Saturday, and they gained access from 2 am to move the set pieces into place and decorate the set for a 7 am crew call.

The opening sequence of AM WOMAN is a testament to the power of allegory in film. It is a subtle yet effective way of conveying the story of Helen's journey to fame. The use of the subway station as a backdrop and the incorporation of the billboard serves as effective time stamp, anchoring the scene in the mid-1960s. The scene's construction and execution are a testament to the skill and creativity of the filmmakers and crew.

This scene also sets the tone for the film, establishing Helen as a strong and determined protagonist, ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead.

‘EVEN I CAN OPEN IT!’

Concept art by Dom Kuneman

AACTA AWARDS - Nominated /Best Production Design Feature Film