Heidi Levitt, a renowned casting director, has embarked on an unexpected directorial journey with her debut documentary, 'Walk With Me'. This film is a deeply personal and powerful exploration of her husband Charlie's battle with early-onset Alzheimer's disease.
Heidi's career has spanned decades, collaborating with some of the most celebrated directors on iconic films. Yet, it was only when Charlie's health took a turn that she considered stepping behind the camera herself.
"This isn't the movie I chose; it's the one I had to make," Heidi shares. 'Walk With Me' is an intimate portrait of their journey, a marriage evolving, and a call to action for open dialogue about Alzheimer's and the role of caregivers.
Heidi's unique background, from film to journalism, positioned her to tell Charlie's story. She sought feedback from documentary filmmaker Alex Gibney, and despite pandemic setbacks, her determination to capture their journey remained unwavering.
"It became my coping mechanism," Heidi explains. "And it gave Charlie a purpose, which is so crucial when facing Alzheimer's."
Over four years, Heidi meticulously filmed in their homes in Los Angeles and Vermont, raising funds and assembling a talented crew. She approached the documentary with the precision of a seasoned filmmaker, considering character development and narrative arcs.
"I wanted to showcase time and change," she says. "I structured it like a story, drawing on my narrative film experience."
Heidi's expertise as a casting director was evident in her selection of participants, ensuring a focused and impactful narrative. She created an environment that encouraged authentic performances, a skill honed from working with directors like Oliver Stone and Wim Wenders.
"I learned from the best that manipulation can yield great results," she adds. "But with Charlie, I had to let him be."
The archival footage, a mix of home movies and new material, offered Heidi a chance to reconnect with her husband, a welcome respite from the challenges of Alzheimer's.
"It was an opportunity to fall in love with him again," she shares.
As the film takes center stage, Heidi finds herself in a new role - an advocate for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. She hopes to spark a national conversation, screening 'Walk With Me' for members of Congress and planning future films on the topic.
"I want to offer fresh perspectives," she says. "Alzheimer's is a part of life, and I aim to tell stories that provide insight."
Heidi's casting director background deeply influenced her directorial debut, and she's thrilled with the Academy's decision to recognize the profession with an Oscar.
"Casting directors are a unique blend of skills - part anthropologist, part actor, part director," she concludes. "It's a privilege to bring these skills to the screen."
'Walk With Me' screens on November 20th at Cinema Village, with Heidi Levitt in attendance for a Q&A session.
