Today we’d like to introduce you to Simmie Sangian.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Simmie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Ever since a young age I’ve always had a passion for the arts. I grew up in England, being part of dance shows, theatre shows, and I was obsessed with film. At age 18, I packed my bags and moved to LA to get my bachelors in Acting for Film at the New York Film Academy. As I learned more about the art of acting, my love for film and theatre grew. I realized that I want to make a difference with my work, educate through my art. Once I graduated I produced, wrote, and starred in a short film about forced marriage. The response was insane. Publishers of magazines and news articles all over the world wanted to talk to me about it, and it was welcomed into film festivals with open arms.
“Honor” has won many awards such as Best Drama & Best Actress at festivals such as the Los Angeles Film Awards, The New York Film Awards, top shots, etc. The warm response made me realize that this is what I should be doing. Creating films about relevant issues that are happening in the world today. I want audiences to feel the need to stand up and make a change after watching my films. This is how my production company came about. I am now focusing on creating content which educates people and informs them on issues that may not be in the spotlight. I am currently writing a short film about human trafficking, which I will also star in.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I think every artist goes through their own personal struggles. When I first moved to LA, I did have my doubts. What if it doesn’t work out? What if I don’t make it? What if I don’t have the right “look?” During the past few years, I have come to realize that the best thing to do is be yourself. Create the art you want to create, and believe in yourself. I think every actor struggles with their performances. I am very hard on myself! But I also learned that acting is a very long process which will continue to grow throughout your whole life. The more experiences I go through, the more I will be able to connect with my work on a greater level. When you are on stage or behind the camera, the best thing to do is just live in the moment, be as present as you can. The words will then follow.
When creating “Honor” I was very worried that it was not your usual short film. I feared whether it would leave an impact or not. I thought to myself, will people care? Is the script good enough? Will my performance, and the other actors’ performance move them? Am I representing the victims respectfully? Will any audience member have the urge to stand up and make a change? But it got to a point where I had to just trust myself, and the team surrounding me. I realized you cannot go wrong with telling the truth. And the story was definitely a truth for many victims around the world. I wanted to be the silent victims’ voice.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I never sat down and said, “okay I’m creating a company.” After my first short film, I realized that this is the kind of content I want to create, and this is the team I want to be surrounded by. I will always be an actor first. But to stand out, and truly have your voice heard as an artist, you have to produce your own work! I am definitely writing scripts, and will hopefully soon have the opportunity to star in them. Morgan Aiken is my right-hand person. Not only is she an actor, she is a producer and director. She is an amazing director. She thinks everything through and likes to create a sort of theatre to feel to the film. Something which we are both passionate about.
The thing I am most proud of is that we are making content that is not only mesmerizing to watch but is educating audiences on social and political issues that many are unaware of. What sets us apart from others is that we handle delicate stories and subjects in a very special way. We try and involve other aspects to our stories, such as charities and organizations who can help us share our film with a wider audience, and we can help them raise awareness.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up I was very loud, and bubbly. I loved the spotlight! I used to put on shows for my family in the living room. I would dress up as characters and perform monologues. I loved making people laugh. I still do! So nothing has changed really.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 8186054540
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @simmiesangian
- Facebook: @simmiesangianartist
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