We were lucky to catch up with Ashley Gianni recently and have shared our conversation below.
Ashley, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
Here’s a little about my mission as a filmmaker and why my most recent directorial debut short film and social impact campaign “Sorority” has been the most meaningful project I’ve worked on….
Ashley Gianni is an award-winning actor, writer, producer, and founder of Pizza Bagel Pictures LLC, a female LGBTQ+ production company focused on telling impactful stories that celebrate the LGBTQ+ and female experience. As an independent filmmaker, Ashley’s mission is to hire, inspire, and empower fellow queer & female filmmakers. She believes deeply in the transformative power of storytelling and aims to utilize her films to create social change, provide healing, and offer community to anyone in need.
Most recently, Ashley made her directorial debut, executive produced, co-wrote, and performed in “Sorority” an LGBTQ+ trans-centric short and social impact campaign that celebrates womanhood, the sanctity and safety of a women’s restroom, and serves as a love letter to our trans sisters reminding them that they belong. “Sorority” was produced by a predominantly queer, all-female team with a 98% female-identifying, predominantly queer cast and crew. Additionally, most of the production services – including fiscal sponsorship, camera rental, lighting gear, production insurance, and more – were secured through female and/or queer female-owned businesses. The film is a true testament to the power of female and queer collaboration.
In the face of rising anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation under the current Trump regime, our stories are more vital than ever. The systematic attempt to erase us, to deny our rights, and to strip away our dignity is a battle we must fight not just with activism and policy, but also through the power of storytelling. As a queer, female filmmaker, I believe in cinema as a form of resistance, a tool for social change, and a space for healing.
“Sorority” is more than a film—it is a call to action. It is a love letter to our trans sisters, a celebration of the resilience and beauty of trans lives, and a reclaiming of public spaces that have long been weaponized against us. This project is deeply personal to me. I grew up finding refuge in the women’s restroom—a space that, despite society’s constraints, often became a sanctuary for sisterhood, support, and self-discovery. I want to challenge the harmful narratives that paint these spaces as battlegrounds and instead show them as they truly are: places of connection, safety, and transformation.
At a time when trans women, particularly trans women of color, face increasing violence and discrimination, it is imperative that we create narratives that center their joy, their struggles, and their right to exist freely. “Sorority” is about chosen family, about the ways in which we uplift each other, and about the power of female solidarity. It is a direct challenge to those who seek to erase or dehumanize trans identities, a defiant act of love and visibility.
Through this film, I hope to spark urgent conversations and shift perspectives. Policies and statistics can inform, but stories have the power to change hearts. By immersing audiences in the lived experiences of our trans community, we cultivate empathy—something that is desperately needed in this political climate. More than that, we remind each other that we are not alone.
This project also serves as a rallying cry to my fellow cisgender queer women and the broader LGBTQ+ community. If we do not actively combat transphobia within our own spaces, we cannot hope to dismantle it in the world at large. Solidarity must be more than a buzzword—it must be an action. We must stand on the front lines for our trans siblings, amplifying their voices, protecting their rights, and celebrating their existence. Because if one of us is under attack, all of us are.
At its heart, “Sorority” is a film about love—love for our community, love for ourselves, and love as an act of defiance. In a world that seeks to silence us, joy is our rebellion. Visibility is our weapon. We must continue to tell our stories, to create art that refuses to be ignored, and to remind ourselves and each other: we are here, we are worthy, and we belong.
…The experience from start to finish has been meaningful on so many levels. The pure joy and camaraderie on set, combined with the heart and dedication the cast and crew poured into this story, was truly touching. My partner, who served as our Unit Photographer, overheard countless conversations about how this was one of the most welcoming and joyful sets they had ever been part of. Many shared that they had never worked with so many women and queer individuals before—and that this representation made them feel seen, heard, and truly comfortable.
On our drive home after wrapping production, my partner played recordings of cast and crew members reflecting on their experience. Hearing their words left me overwhelmed with gratitude, knowing that I had been part of creating a space where so many creatives felt valued. Needless to say, I cried tears of joy the entire way home.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Here is more about my career as an actor and filmmaker;
Ashley Gianni is an award-winning actor, writer, producer, and founder of Pizza Bagel Pictures LLC, a female LGBTQ+ production company focused on telling impactful stories that celebrate the LGBTQ+ and female experience. As an independent filmmaker, Ashley’s mission is to hire, inspire, and empower fellow queer & female filmmakers. She believes deeply in the transformative power of storytelling and aims to utilize her films to create social change, provide healing, and offer community to anyone in need.
Most recently, Ashley made her directorial debut, executive produced, co-wrote, and performed in “Sorority” an LGBTQ+ trans-centric short and social impact campaign that celebrates womanhood, the sanctity and safety of a women’s restroom, and serves as a love letter to our trans sisters reminding them that they belong. “Sorority” was produced by a predominantly queer, all-female team with a 98% female-identifying, predominantly queer cast and crew. Additionally, most of the production services – including fiscal sponsorship, camera rental, lighting gear, production insurance, and more – were secured through female and/or queer female-owned businesses. The film is a true testament to the power of female and queer collaboration.
Ashley was recently seen sharing the screen with Lindsay Lohan for Pure Leaf Tea.
Ashley executive produced, co-wrote, and starred in the 2024 award-winning short film “The Fuscos” (12 Official Selections, 5 Awards) that provides a female and queer twist on the beloved, classic 70s mob film. “The Fuscos” was brought to life by an all-female producing team with over 50% female-identifying and LGBTQ+ cast and crew, including immigrant and BIPOC filmmakers.
Currently, alongside her all-female, predominantly queer team, Ashley is financing her drag-inspired LGTBQ+ featured comedy “No Rules” which landed in the Top 5% of all 120k feature scripts on Coverfly, placing in 9 festivals and securing 12 laurels. Ashley holds a BFA in Theatre Performance from Chapman University and is a proud SAG-AFTRA, WIF, WIM, and FilmmakeHERs member, and female, queer storyteller. www.ashleygianni.com @ashleygianni
As the story goes, when I was two years old, I pointed at the television and declared, “I want to be in there.” From a young age, I fell in love with storytelling, nurtured by a mother who shared her passion for theatre and a grandfather who introduced me to the magic of movies. My mom has always been my biggest supporter, ensuring I had access to acting, dance, art classes, and voice lessons, while also taking me to Broadway shows since I was five.
As a pre-teen and teenager, I was fortunate to spend my summers at Stagedoor Manor Performing Arts Training Center before graduating from the University Program of Performing Arts in high school. Storytelling is all I’ve ever known, and I am profoundly grateful to be living my dream as an actor and independent filmmaker.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
As I’ve shared before, my LGBTQ+ production company is dedicated to telling impactful stories that celebrate the LGBTQ+ and female experience. As an independent filmmaker, my mission is to hire, inspire, and empower fellow queer and female creatives. I deeply believe in the transformative power of storytelling and strive to use my films as a means for social change, healing, and fostering a sense of community.
My artistic mission is deeply intertwined with my personal journey. I didn’t fully embrace my queer identity until later in life—largely because I never saw my kind of lesbian or queer representation in the media I consumed as a child. Growing up in the ‘90s and early 2000s, LGBTQ+ portrayals often relied on stereotypes, and even media aimed at queer audiences was riddled with homophobia. The full spectrum and diversity of our community were rarely reflected in mainstream storytelling. The stories I tell now are, in many ways, for my younger self—a love letter to little Ashley, reminding her that she belongs, that her identity is valid, and that she deserves to see characters who reflect her unique queer expression. In turn, I hope to provide representation for other queer kids who don’t see themselves in today’s media.
When I was a teenager, my grandfather shared how seeing Torch Song Trilogy on Broadway completely changed his perspective on homosexuality. The show moved him so deeply that in just two hours, his entire understanding shifted—he walked away realizing that, at the core of it all, we just want to love and be loved. That moment cemented my belief in the power of truthful, authentic storytelling.
I am passionate about hiring and uplifting fellow queer and female storytellers because I know firsthand how difficult it can be to gain access and resources in this industry. I believe in collective success—when one of us rises, we all rise together. That’s why it’s crucial for us to be transparent with one another: to share our knowledge, resources, and experiences. We need to talk about who is hiring us, how much we’re being paid, and which sets have been inclusive versus discriminatory. We must uplift and protect each other.
And let’s be honest—have you ever worked with a predominantly female, queer team? Because let me tell you, it’s the best experience in the world! We lead with empathy, but we get shit done.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
Choosing just two questions to answer was difficult, but this one stood out as I continue fundraising efforts for Sorority.Many non-creatives may not fully understand the immense challenges of financing independent films—especially for underrepresented filmmakers like myself, a queer woman. Whether crowdfunding for a low-budget project or seeking investors for a larger production, independent filmmakers must constantly find ways to raise capital to bring meaningful stories to life.Too often, we rely on friends and family to help fund our next project, year after year. I am deeply grateful for the support my community has shown me in the past, but asking repeatedly can be difficult. It can also perpetuate the misconception that I don’t have a “real job” or that I “haven’t made it” as a filmmaker simply because my films aren’t winning Oscars—yet. Yes, I’ve applied to every grant opportunity available, competing alongside thousands of other talented filmmakers. But grant funding is limited and rarely covers the full cost of a film. Yes, I’ve reached out to every contact in my network—twice! Yes, I’m constantly building relationships within the industry. What non-creatives need to understand is that fundraising is an essential part of my work, just as it is for any startup or nonprofit arts organization. Supporting independent filmmakers is like supporting PBS, NPR, or your local philharmonic—it requires audiences investing in the art and artists they want to see thrive.The Sorority team was fortunate to raise enough money to make the film, but we still need to cover the remaining production and post-production costs. Thanks to The Funding Studio serving as our fiscal sponsor, our film now operates as a 501(c)(3), allowing us to offer tax-deductible receipts for both monetary and in-kind donations. While we’ve secured incredible in-kind support—such as on-set catering—we still need an additional $4,000 to complete the film and launch the corresponding social impact campaign at festivals this year.After a few unsuccessful friends-and-family fundraising attempts, I’ve decided to take a more untraditional approach. The idea came to me when I was utterly exhausted after finishing post-production—I felt like I had just given birth. And then it hit me: I did just give birth. I gave birth to my first film. So, by the time this article is live, I will have sent out Baby Announcements to my closest friends and family. The announcement will feature my beach maternity-style photoshoot—but instead of a baby bump, I’ll be cradling my clapperboard. The “registry” will lead to our fundraising page, where loved ones can contribute to my “baby’s” future.I’ve celebrated countless weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, and seasonal gifts for my friends and family. My life choices, though different, are just as meaningful and deserving of celebration. I hope this campaign—infused with humor—helps drive that message home. Creatives and their art deserve to be honored. To those who have continued to support me on this journey, I am endlessly grateful. It is because of you that one day, you will see me on that Oscars stage!
Support Female & LGTBQ filmmakers with a by visiting; https://givebutter.com/supportsorority
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ashleygianni.com, www.pizzabagelpictures.com
- Instagram: @ashleygianni @pizzabagelpictures @sororityshortfilm
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashgianni
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleygianni/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/ashleygianni
- Other: Click This Link to Hear More from the Sorority Cast & Crew; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pTTKcOb1Xs
Image Credits
Gianni Headshot Portrait by Lauren Desberg
Sorority Unit Photography by Molly Rangel
The Fuscos Unit Photography by Paul Kowalski
ComicCon Photography by CeCe Canton
Sorority Maternity Photography by Molly Rangel