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Meet the Filmmaker: Amanda E.K., “The First Date”

Q: Why did you become a filmmaker?
AEK: I became a filmmaker to bring my written stories to life. I’ve been writing since I was a kid, but hadn’t considered other storytelling avenues until the pandemic opened up time and opportunity for me to explore new interests. Getting into filmmaking came as a bit of a surprise to me, but now I’m hooked!

Q: What are we going to see at the EFP? Has it screened elsewhere and what are your plans for it?
AEK: I’ll be showing the 9th episode—The First Date—in my “Pandemic in Pollyville” short film series that chronicles off-beat stories from the pandemic in silent film style, featuring vintage Polly Pockets by Bluebird Toys. This episode follows Lauren from episode 6: “The Wedding” and episode 8: “The Divorce” into her post-married life of religious faith deconstruction and exploring her attraction to women. “The First Date” made semi-finalist at the Indie Short Fest for Best LGBTQ film and Best Web Series.

Q: What else are you working on?
AEK: I’m currently wrapping up the final 3 episodes of The Pandemic Pollyville, as well as directing, writing and acting in a short film based off one of my short stories, and additionally assisting on a horror short about Denver’s infamous Riverdale Road.

Q: Tell us one weird thing about you and/or your movies?
AEK: The Pollyville actors come to life in their houses when no one’s looking. Sometimes I find leftover meals and dirty laundry that they didn’t clean up before freezing back into place.

Q: Where can people go to find out more about you and your work?
AEK: My website: AmandaEKwriter.com — where you can find anything from more info on my film & screenwriting projects, my queer erotica short story book, my other published writing, as well as my Creative Coaching & Reiki healing practice. Also find me on Instagram @amanda.ek.writer.

Q: Is there anything you’d like to say about The Emerging Filmmakers Project?
AEK: The audience at EFP is the best! Always a fun and engaging experience!

The First Date will screen during The Emerging Filmmakers Project on Thursday, May 18th, 2023 at The Bug Theatre.