Catching up with Clapper Loader, Mahalia John

F: What is your background?

M: I was more intrigued watching the “behind the scenes” on the DVD Extras than the actual film itself, so I soon realised that I wanted to be part of that world. So, when I was sixteen I heard about the BFI Film Academy and I joined a short programme. Initially I started as a director, but then switched into cinematography and that is what set me on my path. I started working on my friends’ projects and eventually on NFTS short films as camera assistant. Through those experiences I met other camera assistants and started building up my network and CV.

F: Do you think you made a good choice in not attending University/Film School?

M: Absolutely. When I started working as a camera assistant, I soon realised I’d made the right choice, because I could immediately see how much more I knew compared to other people that were on set working with me and were maybe into their third year at Film school.

F: Down the line, what role would you like to do?

M: I would like to become a Camera Operator.

F: How did you end up working to where you are now, working on super high budget films?

M: It was a gradual process. First I was loading, but only being called for low budget projects. I realised that this wasn’t what I wanted to be doing, so I decided to start working as a trainee again, but for higher-budget projects. I needed to step down, to step up.

F: Let’s talk about inclusivity and diversity….

M: I’ve never faced confrontational racism on set, however there is definitely the inherent bias and micro-aggressions. I do also recognise my own privilege: I am ‘well spoken’ (a term which is problematic in itself), I attended a ‘white’ school, I’m acclimatised to certain conversations, and I’m lighter skinned. Because of these, I bypass some of those inherent biases, which is a horrible thing, but I appreciate the fact I’ve had an easier time compared to someone with a darker complexion. This is why I want to change this in the industry so much. It’s the small things…like comments about my hair, ignorant questions, sexist comments and attitudes at the work place. These can and need to be eliminated from the industry.

F: Did you ever challenge these things?

M: When I was younger, I did not have the confidence to challenge them, but now I do.

F: What do you think the industry should do, to encompass diversity and inclusivity?

M: I think the fact that already the industry is actively seeking out talent from the BIPOC community to work on set, is a great start. That in itself, just having more women and BIPOC talent on set, can instantly change the inherent bias. Visibility is key and it will create more opportunities. There is more to be done, of course, but we are hopefully heading in the right direction.

F: Any bad days on set? And how did you deal with them?

M: I’ve made mistakes on set, but never a fireable mistake. However, I’ve also been lucky in the fact that the crews I’ve worked with have been understanding and very nice to me. I think as long as you acknowledge your mistakes and learn from them, that is a good way to approach any negative situation.

Mahalia working on set. Photography by Matt Houghton.

F: Let’s talk about mental health…

M: I get burned out and I’m a bit of a night owl, but I think it’s a thing that needs addressing. As I’ve grown up, I’ve learned to be more sensible and look after myself. I think also within the camera team, there is a self-sacrificial culture, so self-care is fundamental. Because of how burned out I got, I am very much aware of the camera trainees I have now and I make sure they look after themselves.

F: You’ve worked on some amazing projects…your favourite one?

M: I don’t even have to think about it: Bond.

F: Just to be clear, the No Time To Die(2020)?

M: Yes. I had such a great time working on that film. Every day I came onto set and was pinching myself, especially when we were flown to Jamaica. We would say to each other, ‘We’re getting paid to do this.’ It was amazing. It definitely helped me grow professionally.

F: What next?

M: Before lockdown, I was working on Cinderella (2021).

F: What one piece of advice would you give to women following in your footsteps?

M: As a practical piece of advice, learn to drive. Make sure that you really enjoy and love your job. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Ask questions. And have more confidence in yourself, more than you’re taught.

Mahalia is a member of @sporasco and you can follow her on @mahalia.john