Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Ortiz.
Erica, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
For me, it all pretty much started the minute I put pen to paper as a kid. I loved writing stories. I loved escaping reality. While watching films as a kid, I realized the strong emotional impact they can have on a person. I immediately wanted to be a part of that.
I grew up in a small town, Gilroy CA.
My resources and outlet for creativity were limited. As a kid, I played piano, danced tap, jazz, and ballet – but I craved to go beyond what was accessible to me.
In a town where the 4-H club and Girl Scouts were the norm, I sought out something that would take me outside of that bubble. When I was twelve, I found myself in an agency for modeling and acting and quickly learned that I didn’t like being told how to act, how much I should weigh, and how to look “acceptable.” When I began to read for female characters, I became annoyed with the typical portrayals of women: helpless, hyper-sexualized stereotypes, damsels in distress. This all fueled my fire to become a writer and director. I knew I had to create stories with empowering characters that represent who I am – a Latina.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The road for me has been very interesting. My inspiration as a creator is derived from my personal experiences. Most of these struggles will be shown within my films. I guess you will just have to wait and see!
Erica Ortiz – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I am a writer and director. Thus far, I have directed short films and music videos. I am currently working towards directing feature films and television. I just finished writing a feature film about my personal dark struggles as a teen growing up in Gilroy. I am very proud of all of the work that I have done but this feature film feels very special to me. I feel it has the potential to help young girls facing similar inner struggles. I am very excited to make this feature film come to life.
What sets me apart from others is my rigorous honesty, vulnerability and authenticity.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success for me is measured inwardly. I feel most successful when I am happy with the person I am in every area of my life – creatively, professionally, and personally.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ericaortizz.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @ericaortizz
- Other: imdb.me/ericaortiz
Image Credit:
Hailey Magoon, Anna Kooris, Molly Adams, Coco Knudson
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