Exploring Vision and Innovation of Amanda M. Ramirez
Welcome Amanda, we are very excited to have you today with us to discuss about your work.
Who is Amanda M. Ramirez and how did the passion for creating begin?
My journey began as a failed dancer, basically. I injured my knee weeks before two major university auditions to get into their programs. I shifted gears and revieved BA in Theatre and minors in Dance and Education from Long Island University - C.W. Post. Several years later, I enrolled in the Master’s in Communications programs from the New York Institute of Technology, graduating Summa Cum Laude while working full-time and raising my child.
Having a performance background amplified my diverse experiences winning the national title of Ms. Belleza Latina '02 and being a finalist in the Game Show Network’s Host Search. They were pivotal moments even though both were done on dares. Those opportunities opened doors to recurring roles on TV shows like "All My Children," "As the World Turns," and co-starring on FOX's "Canterbury's Law" with Julianna Margulies.
Can you tell us a bit about your previous work?
Absolutely! It was an honor to be attached to the documentary "Laddie: The Man Behind the Movies," which tells the story of former MGM CEO Alan Ladd Jr. and his Hollywood legacy. I also produced the horror film "Welcome to Willits" (IFC Midnight) and the heartfelt feature film "My First Miracle", which was my first EP credit and one of my favorite projects to date. In addition to feature-length projects, I've worked on the nominated documentary short "Coco Solo" which centers around my mother’s hometown of Colón, in the Republic of Panamá. My degree in Theatre led to television experience producing for "The Donna Drake Show" and "Homageland TV." One of my standout projects is the award-winning New York Fashion Week video "Bibhu Mohapatra: Spring/Summer 2021," starring Academy Award Winner® Arianna Debose which was shot during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Can you tell us what inspired you to create "Concrete Rose" and how the idea evolved into a documentary short? Given your diverse background in theatre, television, and film, how did those experiences influence your approach to storytelling?
The inspiration for "Concrete Rose" came from being in awe of Christina Green, the star of the short.
I had a small networking event at my friend, Gia’s beachside apartment.
Gia, a lifelong friend, artist, and awarding-winning interior and production designer asked me if our mutual friend, Marla could bring her aunt, Christina. We bonded immediately, and Christina shared her experience as the Marcus Garvey supportive housing program director in Brownsville, Brooklyn. Her road there resonated with me because it embodies resilience and hope. Her transformation journey shows how she overcame her past to help others do the same.
I approached "Concrete Rose" with a focus on storytelling that captures the human spirit. Christina's story, symbolizing the "concrete rose" growing in harsh conditions, speaks to anyone who has faced adversity and refused to be defined by it. We explored themes of redemption and the quest for a better future through the interview, highlighting the complexities of reentry and societal barriers.
Creating this documentary was challenging but rewarding since there wasn’t much time to secure funds or apply for a filmmaking grant. We worked closely with Christina to ensure her experience was represented with sensitivity and respect. I hope this film encourages viewers to challenge their preconceptions about incarceration and reentry and to consider how society can better support those seeking redemption.
CONVERSATION ABOUT: Concrete Rose
What were some of the challenges you faced during the production of the film, and how did you overcome them?
Given the stigma associated with incarceration and reentry, it was crucial to build a rapport with Christina and the Communication department of the Osborne Association. This was achieved through open interaction, transparency about our intentions, and regarding her and the organization’s perspectives.
Logistically, filming in Brownsville, Brooklyn presented its own set of difficulties. Coordinating schedules with the crew having various commitments and responsibilities required flexibility and patience. I had to be adaptable to accommodate everyone's availability.
The visual style was also a challenge. Thanks to the camera and editing departments, the aim was to create an all too real yet hopeful aesthetic to reflect the harsh realities and the warmth of community support. Ultimately, the encounters we faced during production only strengthened our dedication to telling this important story with the sensitivity and respect it and Christina deserved.
"Concrete Rose" explores themes of incarceration, rehabilitation, and societal reintegration. Why do you think these themes are important to address through film?
"Concrete Rose" delves into themes of incarceration, rehabilitation, and societal reintegration because these are crucial issues that affect justice-impacted individuals and communities deeply. By addressing this through film, we can shine a spotlight on the challenges faced by those reentering society after incarceration, highlighting the complexities of their journeys and the barriers they encounter.
Works like "Concrete Rose" can humanize these experiences, fostering empathy and understanding among viewers. They provide a platform to discuss systemic issues such as stigma, access to resources, and the need for supportive environments. By amplifying these voices and stories, we can advocate for policies and practices that promote rehabilitation and successful reintegration. Media is a way to provoke dialogue, challenge stereotypes, and inspire positive change in how society views and supports individuals affected by confinement.
"Concrete Rose" has a very evocative title. Can you tell us how you came up with it and what it symbolizes for you?
The title was inspired by Tupac Shakur's anthology "The Rose That Grew From Concrete." This collection of poems reflects resilience and hope, and in this case, using the metaphor of a rose growing in harsh conditions as a symbol of overcoming adversity.
For me, "Concrete Rose" represents the strength and beauty that can emerge from adversity. It underscores the power of human resilience (like Christina) and the potential for growth and change, even in the most challenging environments. The title encapsulates the central theme of the film, celebrating the journey of personal transformation and the importance of support and community in overcoming obstacles.
How has working on this film impacted your perspective on the criminal justice system and the potential for rehabilitation? What message or emotions do you hope viewers take away from watching "Concrete Rose"?
Working on "Concrete Rose" has deeply impacted my perspective on the criminal justice system, emphasizing the urgent need for rehabilitation-focused approaches. Witnessing the resilience and determination of individuals like Christina Green has reinforced my belief in the potential for positive change and second chances.
Having the doc's host, actor, and producer, Lauren B. Martin, give a glimpse into her life as the daughter of a respected district court judge made the connection to Christina's story more palpable. I hope viewers of "Concrete Rose" feel inspired by the stories of transformation and moved by the challenges faced by those reentering society.
I aim for the film to provoke empathy and awareness, challenging stereotypes about incarceration, highlighting the importance of support and community in the rehabilitation process, and sparking conversations about reforming our criminal justice system to prioritize recovery and create more supportive environments for individuals seeking a restorative life.
8. What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers who are interested in telling stories that resonate with social issues, like "Concrete Rose" does?
Build genuine relationships and trust with the individuals whose stories you want to share. The crew of Angela, Ava, Dominick, Gia, Ian, Joe, Lauren, Matt, Michael, Akil, Eric, Emily and Lauraine, were an incredible support system and believed in Christina's message no matter the significance of their contribution.
Listen actively and empathetically to understand their perspectives and experiences. Educate yourself on the complexities and nuances surrounding these issues to ensure your storytelling is informed and respectful. Be prepared for challenges and setbacks. Filming stories related to social issues often requires navigating sensitive subjects and bureaucratic hurdles. Persistence and resilience are crucial.
Lastly, use your platform responsibly. Aim to amplify voices that are often marginalized or unheard. Seek to provoke thought, inspire empathy, and advocate for positive change through your filmmaking. Authenticity, empathy, and a commitment to ethical storytelling will resonate deeply with audiences and contribute meaningfully to the discourse on social issues.
Are there any upcoming projects or themes you're excited to explore in future films or documentaries?
I have several upcoming projects/pitches that span diverse themes and formats.
The first is a roundtable podcast featuring BIPOC hosts discussing contemporary issues and culture, providing a platform for nuanced and inclusive conversations.
I developed a pitch for a limited series with a Latine cast in leading roles, aiming to celebrate and explore Latine experiences and narratives in depth.
On the holiday front, I completed four film pitches: two Valentine's Day-themed stories capturing different aspects of love, and two Christmas films including one centered around the heartwarming tale of my son delivering a baby on Christmas Eve.
In the documentary world, I'm planning another short that tackles a pressing health issue, aiming to shed light on an important story that deserves attention.
My main goal is securing finishing funds for the sports documentary "¡Indestructible! Baseball on the Isthmus," which explores the passion and resilience of athletes in a challenging bureaucratic environment. These projects reflect my commitment to storytelling that celebrates diverse voices and experiences.
This marks the conclusion of the interview featuring our esteemed artist, Amanda M. Ramirez. Our community is growing steadily, with a continuous influx of skilled filmmakers and screenwriters joining us. Explore our other interviews, and consider scheduling one for yourself to showcase your creative endeavors.
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