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

Hi Emily, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I find risk taking quite exciting and do believe in the old saying, “fortune favors the bold.” When it comes to filmmaking pursuits, I’d say there’s typically a certain level of risk involved and that’s why when something comes out alright, it’s quite emotional and profound.  In terms of my own personal risk taking, I decided to self-finance my last short film, Danny’s Girl, and spent all of my money doing so. At that time I was sort of down on myself for not creating in the way I wanted and felt a bit stuck, so I just did the damn thing. The film went on to premiere at Sundance, 2020, which was a lifelong dream come true and 1000% worth the risk.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My films are darkly comedic with elements of the grotesque, but also deal with human vulnerability and desperation. And romance! After my last short film premiered at Sundance, I’m very excited and eager to try and get my feature screenplay made. That being said, it’s also terrifying. Sometimes you feel like you lack control in the process because films are inherently so expensive and hard to get made, but I feel like if you remind yourself of why you create in the first place, that’s a healthy mindset to be in. You can’t forget the magic.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Although I’m still new-ish to LA I’d have to say much of my time here has been spent walking to and from the Griffith Observatory. It’s been a weekly staple for me, and a good opportunity to brainstorm as you hike along the dirt path with spectacular views. For food I’d say to definitely checkout Musso and Franks, an Old Hollywood staple with an ambience that feels haunted. If you’re into French food, check out Figaro in Los Feliz, a bistro with an impressive happy hour where you can sit for hours without feeling rushed. And for cocktails in an old-school, dimly lit bar checkout The Dresden. And of course go to any movie theater playing something you’re into.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to give a big, enthusiastic shoutout to the SUNY Purchase Film Conservatory, where I studied undergrad. For four years, the staff truly encouraged creative freedom and expression in all of its messy manifestations. The conservatory was very hands on, supportive, and kind. In going to film school I was concerned that studying film could potentially make the medium become sterile and dull, but my professors only enhanced my desire for cinematic storytelling with their passion and commitment.

Website: www.emilyannewilson.com, www.dannysgirl.com

Instagram: @emilyannewilson

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-wilson-8326a628

Other: https://vimeo.com/412935673

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