e were lucky to catch up with Joan Montreuil recently and have shared our conversation below.

Joan, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

I’ve taken several risks in my life, i guess it’s in my nature to not fear the unseen but to focus on the rewarding outcomes. Perusing the world of filmmaking is a great risk if the goal is to have a stable career. But the point of any art form is to do it because it enriches your soul, not because it is a route to security.

This #1 reason why most people leave the film industry is because the risk to achieve a blockbuster film can be years! It can take up a humongous amount of, time, energy and money. This freelance lifestyle is definitely risky business. It can be very stressful not knowing when and where their next gig will happen. Certain people can’t handle the chance of it all.

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

Over 27 years, I’ve devoted my life to the ARTS and rekindled my love for storytelling. In my late twenties, at a time I was having an identity crisis, still trying to figure life out and deeply seeking God for guidance, I sort of stumbled up in to the world of Christian comedy. I’d perform skits for churches and community centers, then I was begin writing inspirational skits for our youth ministry, later on I dived into writing live StagePlays for ten consecutive years since 1997 and later grew a strong interest for filmmaking. In 2003 , I was one in a few female playwrights that existed and I’m truly grateful that Pastor, Antione Barriere of HHOF gave me the opportunity to minister in this capacity as a member of the church. Right out the gate, I knew that branching off into filmmaking that my work would be inspirational storytelling. Authentic stories that answers the people questions and solves the people problems. My motivation did not centered around the money but around the message. Messages that can make a difference in people lives! I don’t mind going against the grain, fitting in or starting a new trend. I feel like I’m a different breed, My motive and intent are different from what you are observing today. I believe wholeheartedly that my gift is from God and I want to be a good steward.

Once I became disciplined in one area God upgraded me to be able to run an entire set. With the help of my family who are also in film, and being all makes I had to work twice as hard to prove myself. After mastering many roles in filmmaking such as Screenwriting, Directing, Producing, Film Editing, Administrative, Graphic Design, etc. I then started an organization named Brilliant Women In Film that introduces new and established writers & filmmakers how to master their specific roles in filmmaking and Screenwriting. I’m most proud of the women who have come through the program and complete the program and use those tools to pay it forward in any capacity.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

The one thing my mother & father has passé down to me is Resilience!

I can adapt to any disruption that comes along with this journey. This business is very competitive and there are people who will disguise themselves as being a very supportive colleague, friend and partner when in fact they’re just trying to steal strategies and information to mimic you stride. I’ve seen it all in my 27 years of in this industry. There one thing to be motivated but being malicious is another. As you can see I’ve had my share of issues with this industry. However, adapting to difficult or challenging life experiences, especially through mental, emotional, and behavioral flexibility, only prepares one for a greater purpose.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect as a creative is having the ability and skill to contribute to society. It should be everyone’s responsibility to make this world a better place for the next generation. Having a tangible gift that can shape our future, our community, our culture and our planet is truly amazing and God trusted you with it! My plea to the creatives is to use what the Creator has given you, to produce content to help others.   

Contact Info:

• Website: http://wisdomproductioninternational.org/
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/joan.montreuil.1
• Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCz85C1kSZFv9mYHj9KKVTBA

Image Credits
Deloris Akins Tanya Washington