“Share your truth and be confident in your commentary on the world. Keep learning, growing, and striving for truth. "
— Molly Smith
The Interview Q&A
How long have you been working in the film industry? Where did you get your start?
“Since about 2015. I initially became interested in film after working as an actress for some time and then realized I enjoyed being on the other side of the camera more. I made my first film when I was 14 and submitted it to festivals, becoming obsessed ever since then!”
Who is your biggest inspiration? What have they taught you?
“I've had several great mentors throughout my film career but Rick Stevenson is someone who has always inspired me as a filmmaker and a person. Rick runs Prodigy Camp, a week-long summer film and music intensive for the most talented teen artists across the world. I attended in 2017 and 2019 and learned about the importance of storytelling in our world. Ever since then I have stayed very close with all of them and continue to be inspired by their work.”
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
“I draw inspiration from many things, but a lot of my work starts from poetry. I use blackout poems to begin my writing process. Other films that have influenced my work are Short Term 12, Ex Machina, and The Perks of Being a Wallflower. I love pulling from all types of art: music, dance, visual art, etc.”
What are some of the biggest things you’ve accomplished in your career so far?
“My most successful film was Dear America, a short PSA on the effects of gun violence from Gen Z's perspective. The film has received over 600k views on Youtube, a national Student Emmy, and the NCAC's Speak Truth to Power award in 2019. My film work also allowed me to be named a Cameron Impact Scholar in 2020, which will allow me to attend Yale University on a full scholarship. The people I have met through that organization inspire me greatly and I know we will make some amazing work together.”
Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now? (No dream is too big!)
“In five years, I will be a graduate of Yale and I don't know whether I will be in the workforce or grad school. Regardless, I hope that I am making content that inspires thought-provoking conversation and education. I will continue to submit to festivals and hopefully get into a few of the big ones!”
If you had one piece of advice for a woman who wants to get started in the film industry what it would be?
“Anyone can be a filmmaker. All you need is to be a good listener. There is so much in the world that we can comment on, and even the smallest moments of life can be great stories. Every story at its core is about a fundamental human emotion, and that is something anyone can relate to. The details around that emotion are what make your story unique. Share your truth and be confident in your commentary on the world. Keep learning, growing, and striving for truth.”