Conversations with Carla Saunders

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carla Saunders.

Carla, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
How did I begin? I took a bold step back in 2008/2009, having previously served as an extra in a big-name production. I became obsessed with the idea of creating after that. I began by making trailers before moving on to full-length films. I recently signed a new distribution contract for my feature picture No Reason, and I have multiple short films showing at various film festivals. In addition, I’ve developed Carla’s Tales, which will go into pre-production later this year, and I’m developing a horror miniseries called Mini Bites, which will be a series feature. I’ve written, directed, and produced all of my productions. Making a film with an edge that is based on reality, I wanted to create my own lane as a Black woman who makes horror, following in the footsteps of the greats like Wes Craven and M. Knight Shyamalan, to name a few, since I love horror and very intense thrillers. There are several degrees of horror, in my opinion. My approach is primarily grounded in reality or hypothetical scenarios such as ” what if this” happened. I think I’m forging my own path. I don’t feel guilty about being self-taught. Every day, I’m like a sponge. It can be extremely labor-intensive for an independent producer like me to see their creations come to life, but I adore it when it happens. I’ve had the opportunity to work with a ton of amazing individuals, formed relationships with genuine mentors who support me anytime I have questions, and unconventionally researched every facet of filmmaking. In addition, I’m training to be a cinematographer. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road hasn’t been easy. I’ve wanted to give up so much in the past. You can lose hope because things might go slowly or you might not have the money, but I’ve always managed to make things happen. Occasionally, even though I may know a lot of people in the industry, I’m pretty much a loner. Peers you may have previously given opportunities to may not necessarily reciprocate the favor. I’ve occasionally wondered if I’m even good enough, but I’ve also realized that the time wasn’t right. God has a way of permitting things to happen to you in order to give you the character, tenacity, and strength to endure them when they do. As a woman, I recall receiving different treatment. That is why I think it is crucial to understand every function in order to avoid being taken advantage of and robbed blind. I am aware of my brightness. I will not be stopped. That’s the reason I always advise not giving up. This is my daily motto. This is why my production company, Promises Entertainment, was created. The promise is to never give up. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Furthermore, I have 27 years of experience as a senior paralegal. Having a paralegal on staff is quite beneficial for paperwork and organizing. My colleagues in the industry in Atlanta refer to me as the independent horror filmmaker. As I mentioned earlier, I’m in my own lane. My debut feature film, NO REASON, is what I’m most proud of. The reason is that I felt like giving up on most of my challenges. The reason I persisted was because I had a committed cast and crew. I adore setting the standard higher. Despite having multiple films under my name, I have a ton of unfinished projects that I am eager to start. Along with creating, I aim to collaborate with other outstanding producers. I stand out because there aren’t many black women who make suspenseful, frightening films for the big screen. 

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
I would suggest that someone just starting out study every role that goes into making a movie. Begin with the concept, screenplay, budgeting, breakdowns, safeguarding your work, and acquiring knowledge of audio, lighting, and blocking. Never give anyone access to your sets for practice. Remember that quality is paramount. You will make mistakes; that’s how you learn and develop. But be very careful when choosing your trust crew. It all comes down to presentation. Furthermore, never give up control of your set to anyone. For this reason, before you pick up a camera, make sure you have all of your agreements and funds in place. You should also be aware of what each function on set means. Never give a verbal agreement. Even if you are unable to pay yourself, you should always keep your documentation organized and make a deal memo for yourself. 

You will become better as you keep producing and creating. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://beacons.ai/promisesentertainment
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-saunders/
• Other: https://beacons.ai/promisesentertainment