Meet Andrea Dodge | Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrea Dodge and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Andrea, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I have been an empathetic person from a very young age. Because of this, I was immediately drawn to the arts. Whether it was music, dance, or film, the arts have always played an intricate part in the person I am. They help me process and work through my emotions, which is what I hope to help others do through my art.

One of my biggest hopes is to create change in the world. Everything I create has meaning and intention behind it. I am passionate about helping others, and I plan to accomplish that through the art of filmmaking. By telling stories that are universal yet personal at the same time, I am able to connect with a wider audience at a deeper level. Moving people emotionally in a way that promotes progressive change is my ultimate goal.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My journey with film truly flourished during my time here in Atlanta. I will always be a city girl. Originally from a small town outside of Chicago, I have always been drawn by city life, whether it be there, New York, or Atlanta. I don’t like to sit still, either in life or on set. I am constantly working and putting my effort into all I do.

I think that’s what drew me to work as an assistant director, which is what introduced me to production work. I had the opportunity to work on an unscripted show called “chefATL” that followed different chefs and the culinary diversity of Atlanta. It was an incredible experience that introduced me to the television industry and producing work as a whole. It was such a fast-paced environment that taught me so much about the impossible puzzle of producing, and I loved every second of it. The ability to come together through collaboration to bring a concept to fruition is a feeling that drives me.

I’m very people-oriented and love being surrounded by artists and creativity everywhere I go. I’m constantly taking inspiration from moments in my life and the people I meet. I came to Atlanta because of this. Growing up in the Midwest, I was very limited and desperately wanted to experience a more creative and diverse area. The connections I’ve been able to make in this city have truly defined both me as a person and the start of my filmmaking career. It has become such a special place to me that I’m honored to have called home these past four years.

Artistically, I’ve always found solace in expressing myself through many forms of art. Growing up, I had a foot in many pools and truly fell in love with film as a teenager. I found film to be such a truly emotional medium. Despite being very logistical and business-minded, I have always led with my heart. I find what centers me is my ability to truly, emphatically connect with others, and I love nothing more than to express that on screen.

I recently produced a film called “Sticker It!” A film focused on grief and sisterhood told through the lens of a dramedy, it was everything I could’ve hoped for and more. It was the most rewarding experience of my career thus far, and it solidified for me that I wanted to continue producing films for life.

My next artistic endeavor is my biggest yet, and I cannot wait to continue forward with it. In collaboration with my peers, I plan to create a short film that not only showcases my filmmaking abilities but also makes a firm statement about my core beliefs. I am prepared to put my all into this project and make it the best it can be.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The first stop would have to be for a coffee and bagel. My favorite place right now is B-Side. I first discovered it when its partner restaurant, The Deer and The Dove, was featured during my time working on “chefATL”. In classic city girl fashion, I run on a coffee and a good bagel. After fueling up, we’d probably head to the Botanical Garden or The High Museum. As I said, I love being surrounded by art and both of these locations are such beautiful places to find inspiration.

Another way I love to express myself is through fashion. Clothing is such a fun and interesting way for me to be creative. We would finish up our coffees with some thrifting. I like to try as many different shops as I can. I love being able to connect with pieces and the intrinsic beauty of pre-loved things.

To settle off the evening, we would catch a screening at the Plaza Theatre. I’ve never had access to a historic theatre, and being able to live so close to it has been such a blessing. The movie theatre is my favorite place on earth, and the Plaza feels like a home in and of itself.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The women who raised me: my mom, my grandma, and my nonna. Each of these women sacrificed more than I could ever imagine to give me an amazing upbringing. Thanks to their unwavering support, I had the courage to move across the country and chase my dream of becoming a professional filmmaker. These hardworking and compassionate women made me the woman I am today, and I could never thank them enough.

Being raised by such strong women inspired me to tell female-led stories. I love working with fellow female creatives who help me foster a positive working environment.

Instagram: @aandrea.dodgee

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-dodge-085119351

Image Credits
Rhiannon Shakir