Samantha Reynolds

Read Time: 2 minutes “What’s next?” One of the questions I am now being asked as my film rounds the corner and eyes the finish line.It is so tempting to focus on the potential future accolades, prizes, winning of festivals, or the next big opportunity; BUT... I am taking my time and enjoy this ride as I absorb all the new learning and experiences. When I made my award-winning graduate student thesis at USC, I was in my 30s but despite this advanced age (:)), I was not a person who was...

Not only did I write a complicated film for my first one in 20 years, I also chose to blend animation with live action to tell a crucial part of the story. Yes, it made the filmmaking process a bit more complicated as I had to shoot live-action scenes knowing that some would be intercut with animation. BUT... I just knew the animation would add a magical element I know I couldn’t have achieved otherwise. The hurdle? I’m not an animator. I’m not an illustrator; I still draw in stick...

Have you ever felt like it’s too late to start something new? I have...many times. It has taken me years to finally be honest with myself and believe in myself and my dreams...at least most days! I am so grateful and fortunate to have a supportive partner who also serves as a sounding board and motivator. At 56, I’m directing my first film in almost 20 years. It is a deeply personal story about loss, isolation, fear and courage that I also wrote. There will be challenges, much personal...