Frank Ortega, a dedicated writer and performer, shares his inspiring journey into the film industry, detailing early struggles and pivotal moments on set. Brittney Cooper, a professor and co-founder of the Crunk Feminist Collective, discusses the emotional impact of films on identity, especially regarding representation of black women. They explore the magic of cinema, personal narratives, and the transformative power of storytelling, highlighting the crucial role film plays in shaping our experiences and conversations around identity.
Frank Ortega's journey emphasizes perseverance and seizing opportunities in the film industry despite initial setbacks and challenges.
Brittney Cooper's experience with Tyler Perry illustrates the importance of dialogue in understanding complex narratives and shared personal experiences.
Deep dives
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The Deep Connection to Cinema
Frank Ortega shares his deep-rooted passion for movies, which began in his childhood through special moments spent with his mother watching the Oscars. Despite facing challenges breaking into the film industry, his desire to tell stories led him to turn a temporary setback into a pivotal opportunity. A chance encounter during a film shoot transformed his life, as he boldly approached the art director, offering his services for free to gain industry experience. Ultimately, this experience taught him the value of perseverance and the realities of guerrilla filmmaking, leaving an indelible mark on his career path.
Navigating Feminism and Film Critique
Brittany Cooper explores the complexities of being a feminist film critic while grappling with her love for Tyler Perry's work. As she navigates her role in critiquing films, she finds herself emotionally conflicted when characters in Perry's movies reflect the struggles and experiences of her upbringing. An unexpected phone call with Perry highlights the importance of dialogue and understanding, prompting her to reflect on how working-class narratives can be represented without alienating other audiences. This conversation ultimately leads to a realization of shared experiences, reminding her that listening is vital for growth, both in art and personal connections.
The Oscars have got us thinking all about the magic of cinema, and we’ve got two stories on the power of film, and the hold it has on people.
So whether your favorite movie of 2024 was I Saw The TV Glow, Challengers, or Sing Sing - the actual best film of 2024, get your popcorn out, and get ready to watch a, well, listen to, a story.
This episode was hosted by Emily Couch
Storytellers:
Frank Ortega begins his career in the movies.
Brittney Cooper gets an unexpected call from Tyler Perry.