During SXSW Film & TV Festival in Austin, TMN® spoke with director Richard E. Williams and actors Ana Thu Nguyen, Mischa Heywood and Rijen Laine about their new psychological horror film Dead Eyes.

Shot entirely in first person perspective, the film explores themes of grief, identity and obsession through an immersive horror experience that blurs the boundaries between emotional trauma and supernatural terror.

In this conversation, the cast and director reflect on the creative risks behind the project, the technical demands of performing for a POV camera, and the emotional intensity required to bring such a story to life.

They also share insights on independent filmmaking, the importance of creative community, and advice for emerging artists navigating the film industry.

Filmed on location during SXSW 2026 in Austin, Texas.

Interview by Aja Haywood.

Read the full interview with Jackie Venson on our blog.

📍 Recorded in Austin, Texas

🎥 Interview by Aja Haywood for Teens Media Network®

📸 Photo Thumb: Dead Eyes still frame.

Become a member to access exclusive content: more interviews, live sessions, and behind-the-scenes looks at the artists you love.

We create and share these videos to learn and to pass on what we’re discovering. So if you love music, learned something new from this content, or simply find it valuable — share it. 🙌🏽

🎥 We drop new videos often. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the 🔔

Become a Creator | Become a Member | Read our Blog | Get TMN Merch