Today we’d like to introduce you to Em Johnson.
Hi Em, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
So, I’m a writer and director. I work mainly in the narrative film space of the industry and my production company, First Bloom Films also focuses on that area. I moved out to LA after getting my MFA in Chicago and started working freelance as soon as possible. I hopped from small company to small company, writing and directing shorts or music videos in between it all. Finally, after getting some traction on a feature film script I’d worked on alongside my creative partner/producer, Katherine Waddell, we both decided to found our company and make films with women at the forefront. Our debut feature has been in over 20 film festivals worldwide and we are currently in development on multiple projects.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I don’t think there is a smooth road in the film industry. Especially when you’re starting from nothing – no connections, money, or anything. Many long hours are necessary to get to where you want to be and there’s not really time for a break either. You have to stay consistent in the work you put out there, otherwise, you drop off. A struggle I faced was just staying positive through it all. Rejections and being stagnant take their toll on a fresh mind. So, it’s developing that tough skin and really believing in yourself. That’s what gets you past it.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
So, as a writer and director, I spend a lot of time on my own, developing my ideas until I’m proud enough to pitch them to my creative partner. My director side only comes into play for a brief time. I’d say that my latest feature film, Balloon Animal, is what I’m known for most at this point in my career. It is my company’s debut feature and my first released feature. I focus a lot on the human condition in my work and I think this film plays to that strong suit. I’m very proud of where the film has gone and where it’s continuing to go. Recently, we got picked up for distribution and it should be globally released in early 2023. It’s a milestone that I’m happy to have accomplished. Again, it’s all about persistence in this industry. So, while I’m delighted about the success of my last project, my eyes are only focused on the future. I’m always thinking about the next thing because, in this industry, you can’t be stuck in the past.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My creative partner, Katherine Waddell, who also co-founded First Bloom Films with me is a huge supporter of mine and also just a constant force to be reckoned with in the industry. We always know how to pull each other out of a funk and it’s so important to have a strong support system that can push you forward. There are a lot of people who’ve helped me get to where I am today and I’m sure there will be more down the line. My family, my friends, my teachers – all of them come in and out of my life right when I need them to. It’s a pleasure to be surrounded by strong and independent individuals who encourage you and love you unconditionally but also aren’t afraid to ground you. Since my work is mainly independent until I start production on my films, these people are here as my back brace and I couldn’t be more thankful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.emjohnsondirector.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gotemma/
- Other: https://www.firstbloomfilms.com/
Image Credits
Jessica Perez, Ryan Quinlan, John Clifton
