I’m generally not one to talk a lot about myself. I enjoy hearing other’s stories so much more. And sometimes I feel bad if I monopolize a conversation ;). But, since I am asking you all to put your faith in me, it’s probably a good idea you all hear how I became a filmmaker.
Honestly, my love for movies started at a very young age. Whether it was watching Indiana Jones and Star Wars during lunches or practically begging my mom to take me to the movie theater, I always had an almost obsession for all things film. I even remember one time when I was younger, my mom rented Casablanca and was watching it one night. I so badly wanted to see it too, but she said I had to go to bed. Not that I did, of course. No, instead I snuck back out of my room and hid around the corner and just listened to those beautiful lines said by Humphrey Bogart.
Though as much as I loved movies, I didn’t always know I wanted to be a filmmaker.
In fact, I think the first thing I wanted to be was an archaeologist (thanks Indiana Jones), and then later I wanted to be an astronaut (thanks Apollo 13). Though me as an astronaut would have been awful. I’m not so excelled at math ;).
As I got a bit older, I decided to give my ballet dancing a professional go. Yes, I was one of those intense dancers you may know of… though maybe not as crazy as Natalie Portman in Black Swan.
I danced for many years. But soon I was to find myself going in another direction once I went to Philadelphia to study with the Pennsylvania Ballet.
It was in Philadelphia that I fell in love with another art form. Yes, me and Will Smith both caught it. No, not rapping luckily, but I did catch the acting bug.
So back to Los Angeles I went. I was going to study acting. Land an agent. And maybe be the next … Audrey Hepburn? Not that I could ever compare to her though.
Needless to say this did not happen.
And I also soon found myself running a bit low on cash. So a day job I would need.
I began to take jobs on film sets as an extra and stand-in (yes just like that awesome Ricky Gervais show). Honestly I could probably write a novel on all the experiences I had on all the various film sets.
Though it was here that I discovered my true love. Creating stories in cinematic form.
I really did love it. I loved just being on set. The energy there really is fantastic. It really is my favorite place to be.
I realized I was not so skilled in the acting department (no trust me on this), and I soon realized what I really had known all my life. What is my true passion in life? The movies. It wasn’t the acting. It was the people who created this world on film. The directors. I wanted to tell stories.
It really was what I was always aiming for. I have been writing since I was about nine or ten, and I’ve never stopped. I love writing. It’s been my escape in my life.
When I was sixteen I began writing screenplays (not good ones mind you though). And fast forward to over ten years later (I’m giving away my age here haha), and I am still writing screenplays (much better ones now) ;).
So yes. I am to be a filmmaker. In 2007, I managed to get to film school. I embarked over to one of my favorite cities in the world and traveled to London, England. And I’m so glad I did. I met some of the most talented people while there who I hope to work with for many years to come.
After school, I continued to try and advance my film career. I made a few shorts, and in 2010 I made my first feature-length film… which is actually on here (though I’ll warn you, it’s ultra no-budget).
Making movies and telling stories is my absolute favorite thing in this whole world. There is nothing else I would rather do… honestly there’s nothing else I really could do. It may have taken me a little longer than others to get here, but I’m finally here. And looking back, it really is what I’ve always wanted to do.
And there you have it my awesome friends. That is how I got to the party.
What about you all? When did you know you wanted to be a filmmaker, or actor, or writer?
Oh, and since I am currently in the middle of a funding campaign, I should continue to promote my next film. Yes, I am working on getting my second feature-length film made. But I do need your help. Please consider giving a little or spreading the word of my film around to others. I really appreciate it so beyond words. You all are most lovely. Thank you again! http://kck.st/w4cvBg
And please do continue to follow your dreams. We only have one life. Make the most of it. And let me know what you’re up to! I always love to support my fellow artists when I can :). Many hugs!
Lots of love!
Cathy
kitcatfilms 