2.20 Filmmaker Interview with Courtney Dixon

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I interview director Courtney Dixon about her short documentary "Depression is a Beast," a frank look at how horror films can help people cope with anxiety and depression. The film was inspired by a New York Times article and will be shown at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York this June.Listen to hear about how Courtney starts exploring her documentary subjects, how actor Jenna Kanell uses her horror roles to help deal with her depression, and how Courtney uses visuals, sound, and animation to tell the story in this short film.Books recommended in this episode include:The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick RubinNone of This is True by Lisa JewellFilms mentioned in this episode include:“Depression is a Beast” directed by Courtney Dixon“Let Yourself Rest” directed by Courtney DixonThe Imposter directed by Bart LaytonCutie and the Boxer directed by Zachary HeinzerlingCity of God directed by Fernando Meirelles and Kátia LundRaiders of the Lost Ark directed by Steven SpielbergFree Willy directed by Simon WincerAlien directed by Ridley ScottFollow Courtney and the film on Instagram @courtneydixon and @depressionisabeast.Support the show