Today we’d like to introduce you to Lain Ewing.
Hi Lain, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Seeking new adventures and a broader perspective, I boldly decided in 2010 to move abroad. I found myself in Cebu, Philippines, where I joined the vibrant world of Bigfoot Studios. It was an incredible opportunity that pushed me out of my comfort zone and deepened my understanding of the filmmaking process.
After my time in the Philippines, I returned to Indiana. Armed with newfound experiences, I started at a small company working in corporate video production. I was fortunate enough to work on projects for prestigious organizations such as YMCA and Anthem, where I took on various roles as a director, producer, and editor. These projects allowed me to travel across the United States and the world. From the glittering metropolis of Dubai to the cultural wonders of Malaysia and the historic charm of Europe, I soaked in diverse landscapes and cultures while capturing captivating stories for my clients.
However, the magnetic allure of Los Angeles and its thriving entertainment industry beckoned me to take the next leap in my career. I made the life-changing decision to pack my bags and embark on a new chapter in the city of dreams. Landing a job as the co-executive producer’s assistant on the renowned show American Ninja Warrior, I hit the ground running. As a talent production assistant, I immersed myself in the fast-paced world of television production, traveling with the show for an entire year. It was a whirlwind experience that sharpened my skills and taught me the importance of adaptability and teamwork.
While my time on American Ninja Warrior was invaluable, I knew my true passion lay in scripted TV and directing. With unwavering determination, I transitioned into the role of a set production assistant. Along this journey, I had the privilege of joining Women in Film (WIF) in 2017. This organization became a pillar of support, empowering me to pursue my lifelong dream of directing. Through their mentorship programs, I connected with inspiring industry professionals who shared their wisdom and guided me on my path. During my time with WIF, I had the opportunity to shadow Logan Libens, a seasoned director, on an episode of the critically acclaimed show Snowfall. The experience was transformative, offering me a firsthand glimpse into the intricacies of directing in a scripted TV environment. However, just as I gained momentum, the world was thrown into chaos with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the setbacks, I adapted and continued my virtual shadowing, eagerly absorbing knowledge and expanding my skill set. Currently, I assist a veteran TV director and have been able to support him on over 18 TV episodes and four pilots. To date, I have directed five short films and am currently working on my sixth. Each project allowed me to delve into themes of human connection, often laced with dark optimism, comedy, and redemption.
My comedy short “Red Flags” has been selected for the prestigious Dances With Films Los Angeles festival, which will be showcased in June.
Additionally, I am passionate about giving back to the community, devoting my time to volunteering with Homey-Made-Meals once a month. In 2019, I had the privilege of directing live theater for “Homeward LA,” a project that aimed to raise awareness about the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles. It was a humbling experience that further reinforced my belief in the transformative power of storytelling and its ability to create social change. Reflecting on my journey thus far, I am grateful for the opportunities that have shaped me as a filmmaker and individual. From the small town in Indiana to the bustling sets of Los Angeles, each step has been instrumental in my growth and development. I am driven by a deep-rooted passion for telling stories that explore the intricacies of the human condition, infused with elements of humor, redemption, and connection. With every project, I strive to captivate audiences and ignite conversations. As I embark on the next chapter of my career, I am excited to continue pushing the boundaries of my creativity, immersing myself in new projects.
Just living in this bustling city can be a real struggle at times.
When I first arrived, I only had a few work connections to rely on. They were in the reality TV world. I had one lead, and fortunately, it worked out at the last minute, allowing me to secure a job on a show during my first year. After the show ended, I decided I wanted to pursue scripted TV and no longer wanted to be in competition reality. I chose to quit and start looking for work in scripted television. I only knew my roommate in that industry, so there were a few months of not finding any work opportunities, followed by periods of irregular work. It’s the classic struggle of making enough money to survive in LA. I am questioning whether I made the right decision.
I did land my dream position as a director’s assistant, but it was only a part-time to start. I set PA’d while assisting for a few years. While these experiences provided valuable learning opportunities, I had to juggle multiple jobs and constantly find a balance while carefully managing my budget. It was even more challenging that I moved to LA later in life. I was not the typical 20-year-olds on set. I questioned whether I had started my pursuit too late.
I am currently focused on my short RED FLAGS, which is premiering at Dances with Films on June 30th @ 2:45 pm.
I am proud of my accomplishments in my six years in LA. It is easy always to feel like you are not doing enough, but when you stop and celebrate your small success, it adds up. We have to enjoy the wins as much as we revel in the losses.
Logan Kibens and Sharron Green have been huge supporters. Logan is mentoring me on the directing side, and Sharron is mentoring me on story development and structure. Ashley Chrisman, from WIF, has been a considerable support in my journey as a director and pushing me to move forward from jobs when it’s time to move on. Ginger Daniels trusted me to take a very personal story she wrote and allowed me to direct her story that we shot in Brooklyn, NY. This experience was what I needed to know 100 percent to keep on pursuing what I wanted to do.
Contact Info:
- Website: lainewing.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lain._.on._.a._.plane/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lainewing/
- Other: https://lnewing.wixsite.com/redflags-short
Image Credits
Tina B for the Ny filmfestival all other are mine
