Kate Winslet is drawing on more than 30 years of experience in front of the camera to guide her first major effort behind it. The Oscar-winning actress is directing Goodbye June, her feature directorial debut, and says her extensive acting career, including work with some of the industry’s most respected directors, helped prepare her for the challenge of directing a film of her own.

Winslet has reflected on how decades of acting taught her valuable lessons about storytelling, collaboration, and the technical aspects of filmmaking.

Having worked with directors such as James Cameron and Ang Lee, she says she has learned not just how to interpret a role but also how to build a creative environment that supports actors and crew alike, a perspective she now brings to her work behind the camera.

Goodbye June stars Winslet alongside Dame Helen Mirren and follows a family navigating the emotional challenges that come when their mother’s health declines just before Christmas. In addition to directing, Winslet also stars in the film, which is written by her son, Joe Anders.

Winslet explained that her understanding of performance and storytelling helps her communicate effectively with actors, and she views her own years of experience as an asset in shaping the tone and authenticity of the movie. She has described this transition, from actor to director, as a natural evolution of her creative instincts and the confidence she built over years of working closely with filmmakers.

The project marks a personal and professional milestone for Winslet, who continues to explore new roles in the industry while drawing on the depth of knowledge gained during her celebrated acting career.