Maclean directed her first short film, Taunt, in 1982 and later directed the short film, Rud’s Wife, in 1985. In 1987, Maclean directed Talkback, a short film centred around issues of gender and communication.
Maclean's early career began with her first short film, Taunt, in 1982, followed by the short film, Rud’s Wife, in 1985. Her subsequent direction of Talkback in 1987 highlighted her focus on issues related to gender and communication.