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I have never wanted to make a film.  I’ve wanted to write a film, and star in a film but the idea of going through all that work to produce a movie makes me tired. I’m fascinated with filmmakers though. I have so much respect for the people who are in the trenches of movie making. Jennica Schwartzman and her husband Ryan are great examples of what I’m talking about.

jennica scwartzman.JPG jennica schwartzman on set

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jennica shared with me how she felt like no one was going to cast her in the roles she wanted to play, which I know a lot of actors can relate to. So she not only started writing her own parts, she started producing her own films.  She’s very honest about how the role of indie filmmaker is one she’s still learning and growing into.  I couldn’t wait to ask her about the challenges independent filmmakers are facing today.

She was also very open about how her faith plays a part in her life, but it’s not necessarily the focus in her films. We talk about how Hollywood tends to turn it’s back on the idea of faith-based films and not support them financially even though there is a market for them. Jennica said her passion is for creating movies with a purpose that are focused on story rather than genre, or action. She and her husband believe in their purpose so much, they named their production company Purpose Pictures! They’ve played a part in making 8 movies, including their latest project Parker’s Anchor.

jennica and ryan schwartzman

As if making movies wasn’t hard enough, add being a parent on top of that. Jennica has a 2-year-old son. She admits it was hard leaving him for long hours on set. But that’s the price parents pay in this business to follow their dreams. She’s even started her own movement called #IWAHPF-Indie Work At Home Parent Filmmaker. And there are a lot of people who can identify with her struggles. You can read more about her story on MsintheBiz.com and hear her tell her inspirational story in this episode.

Don’t forget to follow Jennica on Twitter @JennicaRenee and on Instagram at JennicaRenee.