Sigismondi resurrects The Runaways: First-time director conquers passion project

Floria Sigismondi is most known for her direction of music videos such as Marilyn Manson’s “The Beautiful People.” But after April 9, Sigismondi will be known for something much bigger: her first feature film.

Sigismondi has been an artist from a very young age. “I would look at a paintbrush and just have to touch it, or use it,” she said. As a child, Sigismondi painted and drew, but as she grew up, her passion turned to photography.

Sigismondi wanted to tell the story of the ’70s rock band The Runaways because she was inspired by their story.

“I loved the story of two completely different girls coming together and doing something that girls weren’t supposed to do at that time,” she says. “Cherie Currie and Joan Jett were so different . . . yet they created something awesome.”

The real Joan Jett and Cherie Currie played a large role in the filmmaking process by helping Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning develop their characters; Sigismondi even had the chance to sit down with Currie’s family.

Although many may be a little taken aback by seeing Dakota Fanning as a rock and roll star, Sigismondi saw no other actress to play the role.

“It helps that people have grown up with her,” she said. “That way, the audience will go through the transformation with her instead of being totally caught off guard.” She adds, “I was very lucky to have her; she’s a wonderful actress.”

The easiest part for Sigismondi was the live performance scenes because of her background in music videos. “I didn’t have a lot of time to film this movie,” she said with a laugh, “but when we got to those scenes, I was relieved because that’s what I do best — I just wanted a really energetic feel and I didn’t have to worry too much about getting it.”

The Runaways will hit theaters next month and people are already highly anticipating its greatness.

While the film may take theaters by storm, Sigismondi plans to spend the next few months relaxing. “Right now, I’m reading, sleeping and eating,” she said. “I have a few projects in mind, but for now, I just want to relax.”