by John Wildman
AFI FEST Daily News

Joey Lauren Adams on set of COME EARLY MORNING (Roadside Attractions)

Joey Lauren Adams' first film as writer-director, COME EARLY MORNING, is a personal film. Adams goes back to her home in Arkansas to explore personal demons keeping a woman (played by Ashley Judd) from overcoming lowered life expectations.

COME EARLY MORNING screens November 9, 9:30 PM, at AFI FEST 2006 presented by Audi.

1. Your film thoroughly captures the flavor of a very particular part of the South (and of course, your hometown). On some level, was it a mission of yours to see that someone got it right on film?

It was my mission on all levels.

2. Who is the better pool player, you or Ashley Judd?

We never played, but I would guess Ashley.

3. What is the best thing about having your film at AFI FEST?

Actually having a film to show at AFI FEST. And I can walk home.

4. You have stated that Bruce Beresford's TENDER MERCIES was a template for the film. Is there a particular director who inspired you in a general sense to want to direct?

My decision to direct was born out of utter fear of letting someone else interpret my script. But Jon Favreau, Kevin Smith, Rick Linklater and David Gordon Green were all role models and they supported me and I think knowing them made everything seem more tangible.

5. What should a director do that they never think of until it's almost too late?

Don't try and shoot through the front windshield of a car at high noon.

6. What's the most underrated job on the set?

The entire crew is underrated but dog trainers don't seem to get much respect.

7. The characters in the film are seldom without a beer in their hands. Is that because it has vitamins that people in the rest of the country aren't aware of?

No, but it seems to take the edge off.

8. If you couldn't direct or act, what would be your career choice?

I used to want to be a Country and Western singer. But I can't sing and life on the road would probably get me down.

9. What was the last film that made you cry? Laugh out loud?

BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN killed me. I just saw three of Phil Chambliss' shorts and I laughed my ass off.

10. Popcorn or candy?

Popcorn.