We had the good fortune of connecting with Alyssa DiMartino and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alyssa, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Art is such an important part of my life, and it always has been, so pursuing filmmaking feels more like a natural progression and less like an active choice. I started “making movies” when I was about 5 with my 2 brothers and an old VHS recorder. I know that even if I worked an office job from 9-5, I’de still be creating when I got home, whatever that might mean on any given day. Scriptwriting and filmmaking are the main focus of my creative endeavors, but on the outskirts of my film career lay all kinds of art, especially music. I’ve been singing for my whole life (in school, choirs, vocal groups, and various music programs) writing music, and playing guitar for almost 10 years. My partner makes fun of me for picking up a new craft every week, but it’s just habitual. Some stick and some don’t, but in one way or another I am always creating whether I like it or not.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
My writing tends to innately center female and queer voices. In the past, my films have discussed topics of gender-disparity, violence against women, and the unavoidable trauma that binds itself to girlhood. These are the stories that I feel compelled to share. I believe that’s because I’m inspired by the prospect of creating positive social change through art. I am extremely passionate about women’s rights and protecting the LGBTQ+ community. I believe that art can be a powerful tool for changing the way we view one another. Creating multi-dimensional and honest characters can help us humanize those around us who we may struggle to understand. As artists, we have the opportunity to encourage empathy through our work, in a way that is wide-spread and easily accessible.

It’s no secret that this is a tough and brutal industry that, at times, is just outright discouraging. For me, the positive potential that filmmaking holds, is what always continues to drive me forward.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m currently living in Brooklyn, and will admit that I am constantly dreaming of going back to LA. If my best friend and I just arrived at LAX, the first place I’m going is Swingers Diner. I am such a sucker for a 50s-style diner, and LA is absolutely full of them. I feel like I’ve tried every chocolate milkshake that the city has to offer. After Swingers, I’de take them to The Academy Museum. That museum is a whole-day event, it’s so big that it’s easy to spend hours there without getting bored. After that, I’de head straight to Sea Salt Poké, which is so good that I have had actual dreams about it. We’d dilly-dally in Sawtelle for a bit, probably grabbing some boba. And to finish off the day, I would take them on a long drive to a small beach in Malibu, where we can watch the sun set. That is my ideal 24 hours in LA.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The most influential and inspiring people in my life are my two grandmothers. They were both extremely active parts of my childhood and played such a large part in raising me and my brothers. I did not grow up with either of my grandfathers around, so on both my mom’s side and my dad’s side, the head of the family was our grandmother. Both women have such extremely different personalities, each of which I have learned so much from. The common thread is their incredible strength and independence. They both worked their whole lives to ensure a better life for their family. I truly would not be who I am today without either of them. They taught me to value my independence and to take absolutely no bullshit. Their vitality, perseverance, and love are ever present in my creative work.

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-dimartino

Other: alyssadimartinofilms@gmail.com

Image Credits
Stills from Faccia Brutta, Cinematography by Idil Eryurekli

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