Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Julie Carney. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Julie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

While all of my films have a special meaning to me, probably the most meaningful project was the film, “Butterfly Short”. The film is based on a true story, involving teens, social media and the catastrophic harm of false accusations. It’s a moving and awakening film with an important message for society today.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Looking back, my love for films and dream of acting began early. While my friends went out on weekends, I stayed home watching movies. If an actor or actress impressed me, I’d rush to the video store to rent more of their films. Eventually, I started seeking out specific directors whose work I admired, aiming to watch all their films. It was a genuine passion; my family would occasionally catch me practicing lines or scenes from movies in front of a mirror. It led to some awkward moments, but they understood it was more than just a passing obsession of mine.

After graduating high school, I went on to get a Bachelor of Science degree from The Ohio State University. I got my first job working in the healthcare and medical marketing field shortly after and thus began my career as a professional in the business world of mission statements, business plans, financial goals and who can out-do their competitors. During those years, my passion for acting never went away. Eventually, I came to the realization that I had to make a complete career shift. Otherwise, I knew I’d never forgive myself for not pursuing my dream.

It hasn’t been easy, working full-time and taking acting classes over the years but now, I can proudly say that I’ve appeared in more than a dozen films, with some currently available for streaming. I’ve also been fortunate enough to win awards for my roles in independent films, including Best Supporting Actress at the 2024 Rome International Movie Awards for the film “Let Me Go” and Best Ensemble Cast at the 2021 Toronto Independent Film Festival for the film “Butterfly Short”. I’m absolutely thrilled to receive these awards and they’ve given me sense of validation, inspiring me to keep working on my craft and continue advancing on my creative journey.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

When I think about it, I believe the reason I followed this path in film is because of the empathetic connection that is possible to have with the characters and stories. Sometimes they’re about something you are going through or someone you know is going through and there’s an empowering feeling to know that someone else is dealing with similar issues or conflicts. There are also stories that make you think, make you laugh, make you cry and make you understand. My hope as an actress is to be able to connect with the audience with the roles I play and the stories I help tell. If I’m able to do that, then I will be satisfied.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I’ve met so many incredibly talented individuals in the film industry and have been fortunate to work with people of different production styles. I love being on set and being surrounded by the cast and crew really sparks my creative energy. I get a great sense of unity being in the “creative bubble”, if you will. Sometimes I feel that they are the only people that get my passion. While there are many, the most rewarding aspect of acting is getting to immerse yourself into a different person, place and time to tell a story that connects at some level with the audience.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: jabcarney

Image Credits

1, Me and the writer/director/producer of the film “1665”, Jon Price
2. Me and fellow actor Parker Roland, in scene from “Butterfly Short”.
3. Me and fellow actor Steven Caminiti (left), writer/director/producer Brian Ibold (right) and actor Joseph Moreland at the premiere of “Drunken Inheritance” (June 2023)
4. Me and fellow actors at the premiere of “Friends Forever” (Jan. 2024): Timothy J. Cox, Patrick Johnson & Beth Metcalf
5. Me and fellow actors, Mary Meyer and Andy Kirtland, and the writer/director/producer, Luke Keibler at the premiere of “The Dinner Party” (Dec. 2023)