Interview with Guernslye Honorés
Embrace Rejection: Rejection is a part of this industry. It’s not a reflection of your worth. It’s not easy to constantly be told you’re not good enough, especially when you pour your heart and soul into what you do. I wish someone had just said “expect a bunch of no’s and a lot of people to not even have the professionalism to get back to you when you reach out to them. It’s just what happens. I wish I had had a better understanding of that aspect of the business, and a mentor who could have talked about this.
As a part of our series about creating a successful career in TV and Film, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Dianna Ippolito.
Dianna Ippolito, a Southern California native, embarked on her creative journey as a teen, igniting her passion for storytelling through photography. She went on to hone her skills at San Francisco’s Academy of Art and the Art Center of Design, capturing fashion and celebrity images for various magazines. Her artistic path took a new turn where a writing class at the American Film Institute sparked her interest in screenwriting. This led her into the world of cinematic storytelling, and in 2014, she co-produced and wrote for the TV series SAF3, and spent months living and working in South Africa where the show was filmed. At the core of Dianna’s creative journey is an unwavering love for film. She draws from her Mexican and Italian heritage, infusing her narratives with cultural depth. Her work also explores themes about underdogs, from intimate coming-of-age tales to gripping political thrillers. Dianna understands the profound impact of movies on our lives, and constantly aspires to transport audiences to new emotional horizons. A prolific filmmaker, Dianna has directed award-winning projects, including her psychological thriller, “The Obscured,” available on Amazon. Currently, her upcoming holiday film, “Mistletoe Connection,” that she co-wrote with writer Marie Jones, is set to release on the UpTv Network on November 26, 2023. Dianna’s artistic journey exemplifies boundless creativity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to cinema, photography, and her deep cultural roots.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit of the ‘backstory’ of how you grew up?
I grew up in Southern California surrounded by a blend of my Mexican and Italian heritage. From an early age I had a love for art and being creative, which eventually led me to explore various forms of artistic expression, including sketching, painting, and photography. My exposure to various artistic mediums is what laid the foundation for my passion for storytelling and eventually filmmaking.
Can you share a story with us about what brought you to this specific career path?
My journey actually began when I began studying at the American Film Institute. It was there that I discovered the incredible power of storytelling through film, and what led me to change my career path. The experience of seeing my words come to life on the screen, combined with my background in photography, made me realize that this was my true calling.
Can you share the funniest or most interesting story that occurred to you in the course of your filmmaking career?
One of the most memorable and amusing moments in my filmmaking career happened while I was pitching a project to a producer. In the middle of my excited and nervous story, the producer fell asleep. I was so shocked, I didn’t know what to do. Nor did the other people in the room. I was trying not to laugh, and I had to bite my lip not to. I sat quietly wondering if I was on some hidden camera comedy show. The producer woke up minutes later and kept talking as if nothing had happened. I’ll never forget what a laugh I had once I was safely back in my car and heading home. I still chuckle when I think about it.
Who are some of the most interesting people you have interacted with? What was that like? Do you have any stories?
I think actors are very interesting people. Each one I have worked with has their own way of approaching the written material, and preparing for a performance. I find the way they access their own emotions and personal experiences to be infinitely fascinating. One of the first things I remember about directing a project was the actor whom I only met the day he showed up on set. He seemed to be in a very bad mood and standoffish. He distanced himself from all the cast and crew and only interacted when it came time to do his scenes. I didn’t realize until much later that it was his process and what he needed to do to inhabit the character. So it’s that kind of stuff I find really compelling.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?
I’m incredibly grateful to the person who helped me the most with my screenwriting and that is the late author and screenwriter Blake Snyder. His guidance and support was, and continues to be, instrumental in my career. His book “Save the Cat” really helped me understand the mechanics of writing a script, and when I reached out to him personally after reading it, he provided invaluable advice and support. To this day, I utilize all the tips he gave me, and constantly refer back to his work whenever I feel stuck or stimmed by a story plot.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
One of my favorite life lesson quotes is by Maya Angelou: “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” This quote has been a source of strength during moments of adversity and uncertainty in my career, reminding me that I have the power to rise above challenges and continue pursuing my creative passions.
I am very interested in diversity in the entertainment industry. Can you share three reasons with our readers about why you think it’s important to have diversity represented in film and television? How can that potentially affect our culture?
Diversity in film and television is crucial for several reasons. It allows for authentic and diverse stories to be told, reflecting the experiences of a wide range of individuals. Exposure to diverse perspectives also fosters cultural understanding and empathy, helping to break down stereotypes and prejudices.
What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now?
Currently, I have a holiday film that I co-wrote called “Mistletoe Connection” that will air on the UpTV network on November 26, 2023. I am also working closely with the talented director Randal Kleiser to get my bio pic project about late singer/songwriter Andy Gibb produced. This project has been particularly exciting because of my lifelong desire share his story with the world. Beyond this I am developing a script called “The Apartment in Paris”, which is a love story that takes place during on onset of the Paris occupation.
Which aspect of your work makes you most proud? Can you explain or give a story?
What makes me most proud is the ability to touch people’s hearts through storytelling. I’ll never forget the time someone reached out to me after watching one of my films and shared how it had profoundly moved them. It’s moments like these that remind me of the power of cinema that can connect and inspire us all.
Ok super. Here is the main question of our interview. What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why.
Early in my career, I often second-guessed myself. I wish someone had told me to trust my creative instincts, as they have often led to my best and strongest work. There was a pivotal moment when a producer asked me to make a significant number of changes to my script and I was unsure about it. I followed his guidance against my better judgement because I thought he knew more, based on his longevity in the business. The script suffered for it, and I ended up rewriting the whole thing excluding all the notes I got and eventually got the script to an award- winning level.
Embrace Rejection: Rejection is a part of this industry. It’s not a reflection of your worth. It’s not easy to constantly be told you’re not good enough, especially when you pour your heart and soul into what you do. I wish someone had just said “expect a bunch of no’s and a lot of people to not even have the professionalism to get back to you when you reach out to them. It’s just what happens. I wish I had had a better understanding of that aspect of the business, and a mentor who could have talked about this.
Build a Strong Network: Relationships are invaluable in this industry. Building a network of collaborators and mentors can open the doors you need to get ahead. Also, one thing about networking is that you have to nurture the contacts you make, and nobody, no matter what their job title, is too insignificant. The assistant or even receptionist you make friends with, at some point will move up the food chain, and if you keep those connections, might be able to help you when you need it most.
Take Creative Risks: Playing it safe doesn’t always lead to groundbreaking work. One of my most rewarding experiences was deciding to mount a feature film with just a small amount of crew and next to no budget. You can’t always wait for all your ducks to get lined up. Sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith, go with what you’ve got, and be resourceful so you can get your projects up and running. If you believe in yourself, so will others. They will be drawn to your passion and want to ride that wave with you.
Stay True to Your Voice: It’s easy to be swayed by trends, but staying true to your unique voice sets you apart. There was a time when I considered trying to fit in with what Hollywood was actively looking for, script wise, but I realized after trying to do that, that my best work is only going to come by forging my own path. I write and direct the scripts “I” want to see, and hopefully others want to come along on that journey with me.
When you create a film, which stakeholders have the greatest impact on the artistic and cinematic choices you make? Is it the viewers, the critics, the financiers, or your own personal artistic vision? Can you share a story with us or give an example about what you mean?
The greatest impact on my artistic choices undoubtedly comes from a combination of my personal artistic vision and the viewers. While I respect the input of critics, I prioritize creating a compelling and authentic story that resonates firstly with myself, and then with audiences. For a while Hollywood was not interested in reading period films. It was always talked about in terms of the cost and how they were just too prohibitive. I continued to write my stories, usually which tend to be set in another era. Of course, then things eventually come back around. Look at the success of the show Bridgerton. It really takes someone with a strong vision to go against the flow, someone who’s not afraid to stick to their guns when they believe in a good story, even if it means bucking the system.
You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
If I could start a movement, it would focus on promoting creativity and storytelling as a means of fostering empathy and understanding among diverse communities. I believe that sharing our stories can break down barriers and create positive change on a global scale.
We are very blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might see this. 🙂
I love women who empower each other. I would love to sit down with someone from Charlize Theron or Margot Robbie’s production company, and pitch them some of my work. They champion telling stories through the female gaze and that’s what I would love. Someone who open to embracing a different perspective, and turn it into a powerful, inspiring film.
How can our readers further follow you online?
You can see some of my work at: www.diannaippolito.com or follow me on Instagram @itsallhappeningfilms
This was very meaningful, thank you so much! We wish you continued success!
About the interviewer: Guernslye Honoré, affectionately known as “Gee-Gee”, is an amalgamation of creativity, vision, and endless enthusiasm. She has elegantly twined the worlds of writing, acting, and digital marketing into an inspiring tapestry of achievement. As the creative genius at the heart of Esma Marketing & Publishing, she leads her team to unprecedented heights with her comprehensive understanding of the industry and her innate flair for innovation. Her boundless passion and sense of purpose radiate from every endeavor she undertakes, turning ideas into reality and creating a realm of infinite possibilities. A true dynamo, Gee-Gee’s name has become synonymous with inspirational leadership and the art of creating success.
Dianna Ippolito: 5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me When I First Became A Filmmaker was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.