Filmmaker J.J. Anderson on Representation and the Beauty of the Everyday

J.J. Anderson is a self-taught filmmaker from San Diego. As a child, J.J. was introduced to the power of storytelling while witnessing the exchange of testimonies at her parents’ weekly Narcotics Anonymous meetings. Passionate about creating strong, authentic representations of women and people of color, much of J.J.’s work focuses on uplifting voices of community members, trailblazers and modern-day leaders.

J.J.’s purpose as a filmmaker is centered around representation. She excavates true stories, often working with non-actors on subject matter that resonates with her. J.J. is able to build intimacy within her projects by creating spaces that allow the people she works with to share their authentic beauty.

In our latest episode of Long Story Short, J.J. talks to us about pulling inspiration from everyday acts, rooting for other independent filmmakers, and envisioning a world where all humans show empathy for each other.

For more about J.J., and work she discusses in the video, visit these links:

• HRDWRKER
• Own Your Crown [Phenomenal and Hayden5]
• Sanford Biggers
• Ava DuVernay
• Janicza Bravo

Video edit by Carly Angeloni.