At 28 years old, Jada George is establishing herself as a director to watch. The Hampton University graduate made her directorial debut with Where The Children Go To Play, a short film making waves at festivals. It has already won the BEST US SHORT Award at Echelon Studios International Film Festival and is listed to appear at the upcoming Brooklyn Sci-Fi Film Festival and Flickers Vortex Film Festival. According to the synopsis, the chilling dystopian short film explores what it means to be “worthy” of survival in a system governed by cold, synthetic judgment.

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We spoke to George about the obstacles she’s had to overcome as a young emerging director, the positive response the film continues to receive, and the established directors who inspire her. Get into our conversation, below:

What are some obstacles and roadblocks you’ve had to overcome as a young independent director?

I’ve had to overcome the feeling of self-doubt and imposter syndrome, being a young director. There have been so many times where I’ve wanted to create something but would talk myself out of it thinking that I wasn’t ready. Watching so many talented directors participate in film festivals and film programs to further their careers would have me comparing myself to them even when I didn’t realize it. From looking at those who’ve attended major film schools like NYU or USC, or taking a look at other accolades like time spent shadowing directors on major sets, I simply felt I needed to have those same experiences before I could apply. After years of holding myself back I finally realized that the only thing stopping me was me and I truly began to understand what people meant when they would say that “comparison is the thief of joy.” What makes you the most unique storyteller is that you are bringing your own perspective, which is based on what you’ve lived and learned. You are ready today, as long as you feel you can commit to bringing a story to life from start to finish. No longer are the days where we need to ask for permission to create. There are so many resources available for independent filmmakers and the only difference between “not making it” and “making it” in this industry is quite literally, making it. Make the project.

The post ‘Where The Children Go To Play’ Director Jada George Talks ‘Self-Doubt,’ Generational Curses, & Her Love Of Dystopia appeared first on MadameNoire.