3.39-Filmmaker Interview with Jessica J. Rowlands

Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I interview Jessica J. Rowlands, the director of the short film "Rise," a heartwarming story of resilience and determination set in Zimbabwe. The film will make its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival this June.Listen to hear about the individual who inspired the film, the importance of using local talent both in front of and behind the camera to tell the story, and how the film uses local music to help establish an authentic local identity.Books mentioned in this episode include:Rotten Row by Petina GappahThe Book of Memory by Petina GappahAn Elegy for Easterly: Faber Stories by Petina GappahFilms and TV shows mentioned in this episode include:"Rise" directed by Jessica J. RowlandsMayfair Witches (series)Transformers: Rise of the Beasts directed by Steven Caple Jr.Mr. Bones directed by Gray HofmeyrCity of God directed by Ktia Lund and Fernando MeirellesIt's a Wonderful Life directed by Frank CapraBilly Elliot directed by Stephen DaldryShawshank Redemption directed by Frank DarabontThe Big Lebowski directed by Joel CoenMad Max: Fury Road directed by George MillerMusical Artists mentioned in this episode include:Hope MasikeFlying BantuFollow Jessica on Instagram @jessiejrowlands and the film @rise.zimbabwe. And if you're in the New York in June, check out the film at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 8th at 12 PM, June 14 at 8:30 PM and June 15th at 2:30 PM.Support the show