Meet Jillian Corsie | Filmmaker, Editor, and Film Festival Programmer

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

Hi Jillian, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The driving force behind my journey to where I am today is simply doing what I love. I don’t create films in pursuit of awards or prestige; I do it because of my genuine passion. It all started with my first feature, when I spontaneously interviewed people on the street one afternoon. Completely unintentionally, those interviews lead me to make a feature documentary at the age of 23! Now, 12 years later, “Trichster” continues to stream on Amazon, shedding light on the hair-pulling disorder known as trichotillomania.

Filmmakers often wait for the “right time” to make their films, whether it’s waiting for funding, the perfect camera package, or the right producer. However, this elusive “right time” rarely materializes. Every film created becomes a stepping stone to new opportunities. While we invest so much of ourselves in our films, it’s crucial to keep producing work. Each new film leads to new connections, friendships, collaborations, and ultimately, new projects. The key is to keep moving forward. Don’t let yourself be paralyzed by the pursuit of perfection. Perfect doesn’t exist.

Making the work that resonates with my inner calling, rather than trying to please certain film festivals or big shot producers, has been the most effective approach for advancing my career. It’s essential to stay true to your vision and create the work you genuinely want to make. By doing so, you open doors to a brighter future in the industry.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a filmmaker and editor with a primary focus on documentary and commercials. Alongside editing, I make my own films on the side. My journey in the industry began in advertising, where I honed my skills as an editor for broadcast commercials and branded content. Working in advertising continuously challenges me to explore new territories and keep my editorial skills sharp.

In addition to my commercial work, I am deeply passionate about editing feature documentaries. The opportunity to share important stories and make a positive impact on the world is truly fulfilling. My most recent feature, “Body Electric,” delves into the realm of body image within the LGBTQ community, particularly exploring how the AIDS epidemic has shaped the next generation’s relationship with their bodies. Currently, the film is making its way through the festival circuit, alongside my first narrative film, “TOOTH.”

“TOOTH” is a weird horror comedy that premiered at the Slamdance Film Festival in January. Combining practical effects using puppets made from my childhood teeth with CGI, the film narrates the tale of a woman whose teeth come to life after falling out, seeking vengeance with toothpicks and floss. It was so fun getting to use my post-production skills to blend effects together. It’s even more fun to watch audiences wince when they see it!

Alongside filmmaking and editing, I also serve as a film festival programmer for the LA-based Salute Your Shorts Film Festival. Film programming has become a profound passion of mine, as it offers a fascinating insight into how films resonate with different programmers in a multitude of ways. Watching hundreds of films each year has greatly influenced my growth as a filmmaker. I’m also excited to contribute to the selection of short documentaries for the upcoming Slamdance festival.
To say this career path is challenging is an understatement. Filmmaking is a field driven by unwavering passion. Securing funding and crafting compelling narratives can be immensely difficult, often accompanied by rejection after rejection. The key is to just keep going. Every completed film feels like a small miracle, achieved through collaboration, dedication, and countless hours of hard work. The ultimate reward comes when sitting in a theater and experiencing the audience’s reaction to a film that consumed years of your life. I find great fulfillment in evoking emotions, sparking contemplation, and encouraging viewers to embrace diverse perspectives, be it through my editing, filmmaking, or film programming.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I was born and raised in California and I’m an ocean girl through and through, so I’m almost always on the west side of town! If a friend were visiting, I would definitely take them on my favorite hike, the Ocean View Trail in Malibu, followed by brunch at Malibu Farms. To make it even more enjoyable, we would bring chairs and a picnic to Broad Beach – my favorite beach in Malibu.

While it may be touristy, I can’t resist the charm of the Venice Boardwalk! Lounging on the beach and then grabbing lunch at the Venice Ale House is my idea of a perfect day. When it comes to bars, my absolute favorite in LA is Townhouse. I make it a point to arrive right at 5 p.m. when it opens, order a Moscow Mule with their house-made ginger beer, and leave before the crowds arrive. For a fantastic cocktail and some delectable bites, the rooftop at Hotel Erwin is a must-visit.

These days, my go-to dinner spot is Ospi! Their hand-made pasta, especially the spicy rigatoni, is simply divine, and their pizzas are exceptional.

I live in Santa Monica’s Ocean Park neighborhood, where I love supporting local businesses. When I’m in need of fun summer dresses, I turn to Brooke Rodd, and her store “Fun” is a treasure trove for unique gifts. Ghisillo’s satisfies my cravings with delicious pizza and a glass of wine, while Layla offers fantastic bagels for those Saturday morning indulgences. Taking leisurely walks through the neighborhood and admiring the vibrant roses and blossoms in everyone’s yards is one of my simple pleasures.

For the best pancakes you’ll ever taste, a drive down to Uncle Bill’s Pancake House in Manhattan Beach is well worth it. And to walk off those pancakes, a leisurely stroll among the impressive waterfront homes is the perfect remedy.
If I’m in the mood to venture to the east side, nothing beats catching a show at the iconic Hollywood Bowl, or enjoying a movie experience at Street Food Cinema. Embracing the vibrant movie culture is a must when you’re in LA!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are dozens of people in the industry who have supported me along my journey: the editors and producers at Bandit Editorial, Damion Clayton and David Brodie at Rock Paper Scissors Editorial, Kirsten Rutherford of TBWA/Chiat, and Bryan Cook at Team One all stand out as people in the industry that I admire deeply and who’s guidance has really helped shape me into the editor and filmmaker I am today.

However, above all else, it is my parents who deserve the greatest recognition. They have been unwavering in their belief in me, fostering my passion for filmmaking since I was a kid shooting movies on my dad’s VHS camera. For decades, they have patiently watched countless rough cuts and stood by me, supporting my ideas and dreams like no one else. I consider myself exceptionally lucky to have such extraordinary parents by my side.

Website: https://jilliancorsie.com/

Instagram: @jcorsie

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillian-corsie-1ab26a19/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=10125213

Other: Tiktok is my biggest social media: @salute_your_shorts

Image Credits
B. Campfield, Oklahoma City Free Press (for the pic at the table)