Introduction:
Mind of Thoughts is a psychological drama short about identity, shame, and the power of our thoughts – showing how they can both sabotage and save us. It’s a deeply human story, one that occasionally turns to movement to express what words cannot. These moments of physical expression draw the audience deeper into the protagonist’s inner world, creating an experience that feels raw, intimate, and alive. This film marks my narrative directorial debut and is one of my most personal passion projects to date.
Inspiration:
The idea for Mind of Thoughts was born during my internship in Los Angeles. One afternoon, while browsing in a small bookstore, a note fell out of a book with the words: “You must first win in your mind, before you win in life.” That moment struck something deep in me. I began speaking with others about the power of that statement and quickly realised how many quietly struggle with the weight of their own thoughts and how much it resonated with so many of them. Those conversations made me feel there was a real need for this story to exist in the world, to spark reflection and offer recognition.
At the same time, I was working on various sets in Belgium and felt a growing need to create safe, collaborative environments where everyone feels valued and respected. Mind of Thoughts became my response to both – a film that would explore the mental battles we face while also proving that a set can be a place of deep trust and synergy. I also saw it as an opportunity to explore whether a narrative story could hold space for dance as an integral storytelling element – using movement not just as expression, but as the very language of the protagonist’s transformation.
The Process:
Filming took place across Belgium, France, and the Netherlands during an intense five-day shoot. The tight schedule was our biggest challenge – coordinating 3 countries’ worth of locations and a crew of over 50 people in such a short window required precision, trust, and quick creative problem-solving.
A highlight of the process was the collaborative magic that unfolded during the dance sequences. These scenes brought together the choreographer, composer, dancers, lead actress, AD team, cinematographer, stylist, make-up team, gaffer, and grip – each contributing with perfect alignment to turn movement into the heartbeat of the story. Watching this synergy take shape was one of the most rewarding parts of the journey, proving to me how powerful cinema can be when every department is working in harmony toward a shared vision.
What It Means to Be a Finalist:
Being selected as a finalist at Worcester Film Festival is an incredible honour. Mind of Thoughts began with me as a one-woman-band storyteller, determined to bring this vision to life and gather a team around it. Seeing that initial spark grow into a project that united so many talented people, and now continues to connect with audiences and spark conversations, is deeply moving. This recognition fuels my drive to keep telling emotionally daring stories and to keep pushing for bold, authentic storytelling. I hope this film can inspire others to believe in their dreams, take action, and choose the thoughts that empower them to move forward.
Where to Watch / Follow:
Follow my journey on Instagram @charlotteverminck or @mindofthoughtsfilm for updates as Mind of Thoughts continues its global festival run. You can also visit www.mindofthoughts.com to explore more about the film and watch the 10-episode behind-the-scenes series that documents how we made it from the very first spark to the final cut.