We recently connected with Jillian Corsie and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jillian thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

My horror comedy short TOOTH is my first foray into narrative filmmaking and is a significant departure from my previous documentary work. The concept behind the film is unconventional to say the least – I used my baby teeth, gluing wires to them to create tooth puppets! I blended CG effects with practical effects and 2D animation, resulting in a strange and wacky stylistic film that certainly isn’t tailored for mainstream tastes.

The decision to invest so much, both financially and creatively, in a project that defied conventions was undoubtedly a gamble. In the world of filmmaking, sometimes it’s those bold risks that yield the most rewarding outcomes.

To my surprise and delight, this risk paid off in ways I could have only dreamed of. TOOTH premiered at the Slamdance film festival, opening doors to countless opportunities. It went on to screen at several Oscar-qualifying festivals, including Indy Shorts, Austin Film Festival, Hollyshorts, Dances with Films, and even earned the “best horror short” award at the Cordillera film festival and the “Wes Craven Award of Excellence” at the Catalina Film Festival.

This success has emboldened me to take yet another daring leap into the unknown with my next project, “LAMB” (working title) which was recently accepted into the Stowe Story Labs. It will be my first feature-length narrative film, a coming-of-age genre film which intertwines a love story between an American granddaughter and her Scottish grandmother. The scope of the project is vast, and I anticipate an uphill climb, but the excitement of taking those initial steps is so exciting.

In the world of filmmaking, risks are inherent, but it’s the willingness to embrace those risks that often leads to rewarding outcomes. Here’s to taking risks and reaping the rewards of artistic courage!

Jillian, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m primarily known for my work as a professional film editor, with a significant focus on documentaries and commercials, though I’ve been gradually delving into the realm of narrative projects. My journey into this industry began when I landed a role as an assistant editor at a boutique post-production house in New York. It was here that I honed my skills and gained invaluable experience in the art of editing, learning from some fantastic editors that I really admire.

However, my career took a pivotal turn when I started making my first feature documentary, Trichster. Initially, I had set out to make a short film, but the project quickly gained momentum and international attention. What truly overwhelmed me was the support I received through Kickstarter, with donations pouring in from 20 different countries. This response was a clear indicator that Trichster was a much more significant undertaking than I had initially envisioned.

The production of Trichster became a five-year endeavor, a labor of love that allowed me to delve deep into the world of documentary filmmaking. The film explores the hair-pulling disorder trichotillomania, and sheds light on the lives of those affected by it. Trichster has not only been a source of personal pride but has also served as an educational tool on college campuses, offering insight and understanding into this often-misunderstood condition. It is currently available on Amazon Prime and iTunes, reaching a wider audience and contributing to important conversations around mental health.

Currently, my professional life is a delicate balance between editing television commercials and feature documentaries. This duality allows me to bring a diverse set of storytelling skills and perspectives to my work. I’m also a film festival programmer for the Salute Your Shorts Film Festival and the Slamdance Film Festival. Watching hundreds of films a year has made me a much stronger filmmaker and I love getting to meet and support emerging filmmaking talent.

I offer my expertise as a story consultant to fellow filmmakers who are in the post-production phase. Working closely with directors, I help them shape the structure of their narratives and give feedback based on their ultimate goals. I also consult with filmmakers on their film festival strategies, sharing my knowledge and experience in navigating the complex and competitive world of film festivals.

What I am most proud of in my career is the ability to wear multiple hats in the film industry, from editing and programming to consulting. My work has allowed me to make a meaningful impact on the art of storytelling and I’m dedicated to producing high-quality, thought-provoking work that resonates with audiences and provides a platform for important conversations.

I am not just an editor but a storyteller who is deeply passionate about the craft of filmmaking. My diverse experiences, from documentaries to commercials and film festival programming, have equipped me with a unique perspective and I’m committed to collaborating with others to create compelling narratives and to continue contributing to the growth of independent cinema. I’m a firm believer that filmmakers need to support each other, and I love getting to watch indie filmmakers succeed.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

Looking back on my creative journey, there are indeed some valuable resources that I wish I had known about and taken advantage of sooner that could have accelerated my growth and enriched my experiences in the world of filmmaking.

I wish I had been more active in filmmaking groups during my earlier years in this industry. Nowadays, there is an abundance of online communities, particularly on platforms like Facebook and Tiktok, that cater to filmmakers. These groups not only provide a virtual space for discussions but also often organize in-person meetups. These in-person gatherings are where you can find your future friends, collaborators, mentors, and the seeds of your next creative project. The knowledge and insights shared within these groups are invaluable, and the relationships formed can be instrumental in your creative journey.

Another missed opportunity was not attending more film festivals and not watching more independent movies when I was just starting out. Film festivals are not just about collecting laurels; they are about getting your work seen, sparking discussions about your films, and supporting fellow artists who are on similar paths. These events offer a chance to immerse yourself in a community of like-minded individuals who share your passions. It’s a place to witness the diverse and innovative work of other filmmakers, which can be a wellspring of inspiration for your own projects. They are kind of like summer camps for filmmaking nerds – you feel seen and understood!

The importance of building a community cannot be overstated in the creative industry. It’s often said that “it’s not what you know, but who you know,” and there’s truth in that statement. However, I’d like to add a twist to it: “network across, not up.” While it’s valuable to connect with more experienced individuals in your field, it’s even more important to build strong connections with your peers. These are the individuals who will grow with you, support your next projects, and potentially offer you your next job. Your network is a powerful asset, and it should be cultivated by forming genuine relationships with those who share your creative journey.

In essence, I’ve learned that seeking out and taking advantage of creative communities is essential in this industry. These communities not only provide knowledge and support but also foster the sense of belonging and camaraderie that can sustain you through the ups and downs of a creative career. If I could go back in time, I would wholeheartedly seek out these groups. I would probably be a lot further along today if I had.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

One of the aspects of my journey as a creative that non-creatives might struggle to understand is the rollercoaster of extreme highs and lows that come with this career path. It’s a journey filled with exhilarating triumphs and heart-wrenching setbacks that can vary from one day to the next.

For instance, one day you might receive the news that your film has been accepted into a major festival or that you’ve won a prestigious award. In those moments, you feel on top of the world, and the validation of your creative work fills you with an indescribable sense of accomplishment. It’s these moments that make all the hard work and dedication worth it.

But the very next day you might find yourself grappling with the harsh realities of financial instability. As a creative, securing funding for projects can be an uphill battle, and there are times when you’re struggling to make rent. The ebb and flow of income can be erratic, and this financial uncertainty can certainly take a toll on your well-being.

Another challenge that non-creatives might not fully grasp is the constant comparison and self-doubt that often plagues creatives. In the age of social media, it can feel like everyone on platforms like Instagram is leading a more flourishing and glamorous creative career than you are. It’s easy to fall into the trap of measuring your success against carefully curated online profiles, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome.

To cope with these challenges and find support, I’ve found immense value of being part of creative communities. I’m a member of several groups like “Women in Post Production” and “Film Fatales,” and I make an effort to attend meetups whenever possible. These communities provide a safe space where creatives can come together, share their experiences, and offer support and inspiration to one another.

In these groups, I’ve found a sense of belonging and understanding that is crucial for navigating the highs and lows of the creative journey. It’s a reminder that we’re not alone in our struggles and that there’s room for all of us to succeed. I always leave with my cup filled, and the powerful reminder that collaboration and support can be the keys to overcoming the challenges that come with a creative career.

It’s essential to recognize that the creative journey is not just about producing art but also about navigating the emotional and financial complexities that accompany it. It’s about finding resilience in the face of setbacks and finding solace and inspiration in the connections we build within our creative communities. Ultimately, it’s a journey that requires passion, perseverance, and a deep belief in the power of creativity and connection to impact the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jilliancorsie.com/
• Instagram: @jcorsie
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillian-corsie-1ab26a19
• Tiktok: @Salute_Your_Shorts

Image Credits
Jared Potter