Breaking into filmmaking after 40 😩😅
Ageism has always been the standard in the entertainment industry. I get it, being in your 20s, good looking, idealistic, and full of energy and optimism! But what about the rest of us who are breaking in late or following our mid-life dreams after the realization that we’re dying?
Producer, writer, and director Ava Duvernay said she didn’t touch a camera until she was 32 years old. She said she felt discouraged being around a bunch of 20s something’s but she had something they didn’t; a wealth of life experience!
I’m finally back writing, directing, and shooting short films and videos at 40 years old. I’m currently studying Digital Cinematography at Full Sail University and taking Screenwriting classes and workshops at Sundance Collab online and locally in Chicago!
I’m not young, sexy, skinny, and cool with endless energy anymore but I’m wiser, survived an insane and dangerous life, I’m bolder, and my storytelling and artistic confidence has grown!
The arts, media, and entertainment isn’t always a young people’s game. Talent, skill, vision, and boldness still matters. Either you have it or you don’t! Unlike maybe acting and being an entertainer, there’s no age cap on being a great writer, director, cinematographer, and editor.
There might not be an abundance of roles for older people (especially women) so you have to write and create content for yourself and not wait on Hollywood!
With the digital tools at our disposal, you can still find your audience! Whether it’s YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok!