Inspiration Spotlight: Director Jackie Carr

What's your background and why do you want to work in film?
I am a storyteller through and through. I started in theater because it was more accessible, but I always knew I would end up in film. I've always been drawn to story and myth and been fascinated by the ways in which we pass histories and form realities and escape from our daily lives. Storytelling is such an intrinsic part of human culture and, on top of being the most prolific visual method of storytelling, film also provides the most freedom and realism. I'm a big proponent of realism!

Why did you want to direct Inspiration?
That segue couldn't have been better if I planned it. It was undoubtedly the realistic qualities of the script that drew me to the story and even more to the characters. Though I hate qualifying myself as a "female" filmmaker, the fact that the script deals with three beautifully written female characters was a big draw. More than anything, I loved the way that this very personal story of a young girl and her quest for answers about her father is so reflective of humanity's quest for truth.

What do you want the audience to come away with from seeing the film?
I want audiences to relate to Claire, to understand her questions and take solace in her inspired quest. I think people will find it hard not to internalize her struggle on some level and think of their own questions and seek their own answers. For what is inspiration if not an answer to a question... and as Claire shows us, those answers are never black and white.

What are your three favorite movies... and why?

1. American Beauty
( I usually follow that up with a "need I say more".. but I'll elaborate slightly.) It was the first film that effected me on a profoundly real level, the first time I saw my truth on film.

2. Garden State
Many have critiqued, perhaps it makes me a product of my generation and I'm sure there are plenty of Zach Braff haters out there, but I find Braff's labor of love to be inspiring both dramatically and practically as a fellow filmmaker. Every aspect of the film was relatable, simple and pure. And who doesn't want to believe that love conquers all?

3. I'm gonna go ahead and say Revolutionary Road. Now I know it doesn't come out til later this year, so I haven't seen it yet, but I feel confident reserving this spot for my favorite power couple, Sam Mendes and Kate Winslet. Yes Winslet plays opposite Leo ... again... but really with Mendes directing how can they go wrong? (I of course reserve the right to alter this if my expectations are not met. In which case the third position would hands down go to Little Miss Sunshine... need I say more?)