Today we’d like to introduce you to Candace Johnson.
So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’m from Chicago but currently, reside in Los Angeles. As a child, I loved to read and although I don’t believe it my mother told me I taught myself how to read. Growing up, I remember always carrying paper and something to write with, so I guess what she told me was true. Growing up, I knew I didn’t want to be a doctor or a lawyer but something else but I wasn’t quite sure. I feel as though I was a late bloomer when it came to my creative pursuits. My aunt worked at the Chicago Tribune as an executive assistant so she would have access to DVDS and would bring them home and she built herself quite a collection of movies and we’d spend the weekends watch movies. Romantics comedies, horror and action film no matter the budget we’d watch it. I thought I wanted to be a fiction writer but that soon turned into me wanting to write for film or television. Always buying books, once I was in A bookstore and came across Screenwriting for dummies. This was before I even thought about film school or knew about a script writing software besides using Microsoft word. So, my very first attempt was using Word, no structure at all but I did it and I was proud. I eventually went to film school, I graduated from Full Sail University, with a bachelor’s degree in digital cinematography. After film school, my partner and I decided to film a web series because at the time that was the most popular thing to do and we did it. Although flawed to us it was our start. I’ve collaborated with so many different creatives along the way that helped me realize the route I wanted to take. Moving to Los Angeles was something I’ve always wanted to do and honestly, I didn’t think I’d ever do it but I did. After a job in the film industry didn’t pan out & after numerous industry related job searches, I decided I’m better when I’m creating my own content and collaborating with others.
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?
Being a filmmaker hasn’t been easy especially when you decide to take the independent route. Most of the projects I’ve worked on I usually funded myself, so that means sometimes you run out of money. You have been truly dedicated and resilient because this journey is bumpy. The best advice I can give to a young woman who’s looking to start a journey is the film industry is just to do it, even if you’re scared just do it. Also, you to know the different paths you can take to get your foot in the industry. If you want to be a production assistant and start from the ground up or finance your project. Also, just say consistent and committed, I know some friends who worked 10 years to get their big break and some who worked five months. With the power of the internet, I think if you’re doing it right and use what’s already laid out in front of you will be successful.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I’m an all-around filmmaker, I write, direct and edit. I’m fortunate enough to have my best friend as my partner so we started Can I Film Productions back in 2015, one of our biggest accomplishments was participating in the 18th annual Women Of African Descent film festival for a film entitled Tie which was written by me and produced by my film Production company. Can I Film is us making a statement that we’re going to film no matter the obstacles that may get in our way, we’re going to get the job done. Lately, I’ve been focused more on the writing side of things. My ultimate goal is to work in television. Currently, I’m in pre-production for a dark comedy entitled Clean Freak, which we’re planning to shoot really soon. Finishing up my first feature-length script which I’m really excited about.
Do you recommend any apps, books or podcasts that have been helpful to you?
Rebel Without a Crew by Robert Rodriguez is one of the books I’ve read on my filmmaking journey. Bulletproof screenwriting is my favorite podcast, the host interviews screenwriters and they give you major insight into the industry. A website blog I would recommend is Studio Binder, it has screenwriting software as well as templates to create call sheets, shot lists, shooting schedules, breakdowns and much more.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: TheRebelCee
Image Credit:
Change Of Status – Monnie Aleahmad & Christopher Ramirez
Model Lifestyle – Model: Infinite
Communal Living Skit – A.J. Tierney
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