Meet Dianna Ippolito | Writer/Director/Producer

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

Hi Dianna, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I was born with a creative streak, so I don’t really think I chose to be an artist. It chose me. I can remember always loving my art classes over any other, and loving movies and storytelling too. By the time I was twelve I knew I wanted to pursue art, and eventually made my way to writing and directing. I love how stories can really seep into your soul, and that is what motivates me. I want to move people emotionally with my stories, be it comedy or drama, and be purposeful with the message. Directing my work is a thrill, and I am happiest when I see something of mine go from script to screen. There’s nothing more intoxicating than that for me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

As a creative person, I am always working on various projects. I tend to think everything is a movie idea, so I am constantly jotting down bits of conversation or jokes when I hear them. I get inspired by billboards or sometimes even a turn of phrase on the radio. I can’t help myself, my brain is always “on.” I love trying to think up high-concept movie ideas, and what I would want to see myself when I go to the movies. It’s a challenge to keep it fresh, but it’s also a lot of fun.

I got started screenwriting when I took writing classes at the American Film Institute. It took a lot of dedication to learn my craft and but I’ve always had a willingness to learn. I like listening to what other writers and directors have to say and listen to podcasts all the time for inspiration. You never know when somebody will say the very thing you need to hear, that will help you with whatever you are working on. I also try to also help others when I can, and would love to write a screenwriting book as a guide to inspire others. Just helpful tips I learned along the way, that I think others could benefit from.

I’d like the world to know that there are still great stories to be told, and that you can’t give up when you get told no, or get a pass on a project you’ve pitched. Just keep believing in yourself and your enthusiasm and hard work will eventually get you where you want to go.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

I really love good Chinese food and my go-to is Moon House, a strip-mall spot on the west side located on Santa Monica Blvd. It features standard & creative Chinese dishes, has a contemporary decor and is always busy. For a bit of ambiance I would drive over to the Huntington Library in Pasadena. It has endless beautiful gardens to walk through with art galleries and you can have high-tea if you make a reservation.

For casual drinks and a view, I’d recommend The Sunset Restaurant in Malibu, and take advantage of the happy hour menu. The sunset is lovely and it’s got a nice casual vibe.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have been lucky enough to work with some talented people that have helped me achieve my filmmaking goals. My first shout out goes to my DP Colten Currey who I have been collaborating with for a number of years now. I am thankful to have his help getting the look and tone of my movies for all to see. I also want to recognize the talented actresses I just had the pleasure of working with on my newest project “The Dead Woman” Hélène Cardona, and Susan Lavelle. Hélène is not only a talented actress but a poet and linguist as well. You may know her work from the movie Chocolat with Johnny Depp. Susan Lavelle is another talented collaborator I love working with. She can do comedy and drama equally well, and loves the art of movie making just as much as I do. Both of these ladies were a pleasure and joy to work with on set, and I am thrilled to have them supporting my work. I’ll be working with them again soon on my next feature. 

Website: www.diannaippolito.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsallhappeningfilms/?hl=en

Twitter: https://twitter.com/diannaseye

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066839425844

Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2074778/