Posted by Join host Olivia Lyle (@olivialyle1) for an exclusive interview with actress-turned-director Madison Wolfe, along with the lead actresses, her sister Megan Wolfe and Presley Richardson, about the short film Acorn, Iowa. Captured by Kyle Reed (@thekylereed) at Regal LA Live, Los Angeles, during the 7th Annual Independent Shorts Awards.
Stepping behind the camera for the first time, Madison Wolfe presented Acorn, Iowa in its world premiere in the non-competitive section, and later joined the Q&A to reflect on her transition from actress to director, sharing what it meant to bring her vision to life on screen.
Acorn, Iowa — Story and Vision
Madison Wolfe’s debut short, Acorn, Iowa, delivers a sharp and unsettling exploration of friendship and chaos within the confines of a fictional religious mental-health camp. At the center of the story is Olivia, whose summer routine is disrupted when her longtime best friend and mischievous partner Maria suddenly reappears. Maria’s return throws camp life into disorder, forcing Olivia to choose between slipping back into old schemes or confronting her friend — and facing the consequences.
For Madison, this project marks a striking new chapter. Having begun her acting career at just seven years old with roles in On the Road and True Detective, and later gaining international recognition for her lead performance in The Conjuring 2, she now steps behind the camera as writer, producer, and director. The film also features her sister, actress Megan Wolfe, in the lead role. The two have appeared together on screen before in True Detective and Trumbo, making Acorn, Iowa another meaningful collaboration in their creative journey.
Madison explained that the film grew out of her enduring fascination with the complexity of young female friendships. Drawing inspiration from works such as The Virgin Suicides and Girl, Interrupted, she crafted a story that blends biting wit with nostalgic summer-camp imagery, weaving dark comedy with raw emotional truth. The result is a portrait of troubled adolescence that questions moral choices, identity, and the ambiguous bonds that define formative relationships.
Behind the Scenes & Creative Voices
In the interview, Madison was joined by her sister Megan Wolfe, a longtime collaborator and confidante, and actor Presley Richardson, who co-stars in the film. Together, they reflected on the creative energy that fueled Acorn, Iowa.
Enjoy the interview below, along with the trailer for Acorn, Iowa, for a brief glimpse into the film.
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