In the realm of independent filmmaking, few debuts captivate and linger as deeply as Sarah Lyons’ The Woods. Set against the backdrop of dense, shadowy forests, this psychological thriller unfolds a chilling narrative of mystery, memory, and haunting metaphors. In a candid conversation, Lyons, the creative force behind the film, shared insights about her journey from conception to execution, as well as the personal and practical elements that shaped her cinematic vision.
From Page to Screen
Lyons began crafting The Woods during her middle school years, revisiting the story repeatedly until it became the foundation for her directorial debut. “This was always the story I knew I’d tell first, whether in novel or film form,” Lyons explained. “It felt like something I needed to get out, almost like an inevitability.”
Growing up in a small, forested town of 2,000 people deeply influenced the setting. “The woods always felt alive, almost as if they were characters themselves,” she said. “Their presence was more than just physical—they had a spirit that demanded attention.” This connection with the natural world imbues the film with authenticity and an eerie vitality.
Practicalities and Artistic Choices
Beyond the symbolic, shooting in the woods also provided practical benefits. Lyons described how, as a first-time filmmaker, limiting locations was crucial to managing the budget. “The fewer locations, the better,” she noted. “It’s cheaper, but it also gives the film a contained, intimate feel.”
Despite potential weather challenges, the decision paid off. Lyons leaned on her familiarity with the environment to create an evocative, haunting atmosphere. The film’s visual style, a collaboration with director of photography Madalina Debaney, played a significant role. “Madalina and I discussed the aesthetics and mood for a long time,” Lyons said. “She has such an eye for framing and lighting, and she helped bring my vision to life.”
The use of drone shots, courtesy of Erica Rogers, added a distinctive edge. “Erica’s drone work captured the vastness and isolation of the woods,” Lyons explained. “Her editing skills brought cohesion to the final product.”
A Tale Told Through Light and Sound
Lyons’ attention to detail extended to the film’s contrasting environments. The cold, industrial podcast studio scenes featured sharp lines and muted tones, while the flashbacks in the woods were warm and fluid. “It was intentional,” she said. “The woods represent the organic, messy aspects of life, while the present is structured and sterile. That final shot in New York City merges both worlds.”
Sound design also played a pivotal role in building tension. Anastasia Goldberg, one of the onset sound workers, ensured clean on-set audio, while George Miata, a sound designer Lyons serendipitously discovered, crafted the film’s haunting soundscape. “The only real input I had was wanting the podcast audio to feel like a podcast and the rest of the film to feel cinematic,” she said.
Challenges and Serendipity
Lyons faced the dual challenge of maintaining her creative vision while navigating the unpredictability of filming in the wilderness. “Knowing exactly what I wanted beforehand was key,” she explained. “From color palettes to storyboards, I had to be prepared so the crew could stay focused.” One unexpected moment of serendipity occurred during the campfire scene. “It was scripted that the characters hear something, but during every take, an owl actually hooted at just the right moment,” Lyons shared with a laugh. “It was surreal like the owl was part of the cast!”
Looking Ahead
Lyons is already working on her next project, a folk horror crime thriller exploring cults in rural settings. Though details remain under wraps, she expressed excitement about continuing her collaboration with Debaney and Rogers.
When asked which character from The Woods she related to most, Lyons reflected deeply. “I think I see myself in all of them,” she said. “They’re like pieces of my brain—broken, sad, hopeful. None of them are truly villains; they’re just trying to navigate their own struggles.”
A Unified Vision
Ultimately, The Woods is as much a psychological exploration as it is a supernatural tale. The forest serves as a metaphor for memory, childhood, and the messiness of life. “It’s a space where the characters confront their fears and truths,” Lyons explained. “The woods aren’t just a setting—they’re the stage where everything unfolds.”
As Lyons continues her filmmaking journey, her passion for storytelling and dedication to her craft promise even greater accomplishments ahead. For audiences, The Woods is a testament to the power of independent cinema and a debut worth celebrating.
A Sense of Community on Set
Filming on location created an environment of unity among the cast and crew. Lyons described the setting: “The house we stayed in had a porch out back with views of mountains and trees. It was a beautiful place to reflect, especially during sunrises and sunsets, which
became part of the daily rhythm on set.”
This shared living space fostered a sense of camaraderie, with everyone spending downtime together. “We’d stop for the day, eat, play music, and watch TV. It created a warm, communal atmosphere that shines through in the final product,” Lyons explained.
Mental Health and Haunting Questions
A central theme of the film is the impact of untreated mental health issues, particularly how they manifest in close relationships. Lyons noted that Amy’s character was designed as someone deeply in tune with the world around her but overwhelmed by a lack of resources to navigate her sensitivity.
“You can interpret it as something supernatural haunting Amy or as untreated mental illness that her friends fail to address,” Lyons said. “I think both interpretations are valid and can exist simultaneously.”
The director emphasized that leaving some aspects open-ended allows the audience to grapple with these questions on their own terms. “Horror is a genre that thrives on asking big questions without necessarily answering them. That’s the beauty of it—it reflects the mysteries of life itself.”
Crafting Characters and Performances
Rehearsals played a crucial role in shaping the film’s emotional core. Lyons worked extensively with her actors to ensure they could dive into their roles once filming began. “We spent a lot of time building chemistry and exploring the characters’ backstories beforehand,” she explained.
Amy’s descent into darkness required a nuanced performance, and the actor delivered. Lyons praised her ability to embody the complexities of someone wrestling with inner demons and external pressures.
The Challenges of Indie Filmmaking
When asked about the most difficult scenes to film, Lyons highlighted the fight sequences between Amy and Kate. “Action scenes are technically demanding. You have to get precise angles, choreograph movements, and ensure safety while creating something visually cohesive. We wrapped that scene at 4 a.m., and the actors were exhausted after hours of rolling around in the dirt.”
Despite the challenges, the hard work paid off, with performances and cinematography receiving accolades. Lyons reflected on what she’d do differently with a bigger budget: “I’d extend certain scenes, explore flashbacks, and delve deeper into the mystery of the woods. But sometimes, constraints force you to be more creative, and that can lead to something special.”
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
Lyons offered practical advice for budding filmmakers, especially those interested in horror. “Write a screenplay you love because it’ll be your baby for years. Build a community of collaborators you trust. And if it’s your first film, keep it small—horror is a great genre for stretching a tight budget.”
She also encouraged filmmakers to study horror for its efficient storytelling. “You can do so much with shadows, sounds, and subtle scares. Even if you’re not making a horror movie, the lessons from this genre are invaluable.”
A Lasting Impression
For Lyons, the film is about more than just scares—it’s an exploration of memory, relationships, and the mysteries of life. “I wanted to show how our perceptions of people change over time, especially when trauma is involved. The ending reflects how memories can distort and how some questions are never truly answered.”
As Sarah Lyons continues promoting her film, her passion for storytelling and her reverence for the horror genre shine brightly. For aspiring filmmakers and horror enthusiasts alike, her journey is an inspiring reminder of the power of creativity and community.
Follow Sarah Lyons on Instagram for more updates on The Woods and for future projects.
Written by Chloe-Kaleah Stewart
Photos by Sarah Lyons