Our Conversation with Jennifer Trudrung
Jennifer Trudrung is a Writer, Actress, and Producer, and is a veteran this year!
Which of your achievements to date are you most proud of?
I’m proud of how I took charge and started writing and producing my own films. I’ve always been drawn to horror and as an actress I’m always geeking out over any auditions I get for horror films or shows. Since I can’t always get picked for these shows I decided I’d write my own screenplays and give myself and my kids the opportunity to play interesting characters in a film. As an actress you can feel powerless at times and I’m finding such confidence and joy in screenwriting and creating.
What’s your favorite horror film and why?
I have to say my favorite horror film is The Shining. I love the book more than the movie but the movie is just a total maniacal ride. The music, the long scenes, the build up, and the absolute terror of watching a family dissolve and be haunted has sat in my mind for years.
Who is your hero in the horror world and why?
I absolutely love, adore, worship, idolize Stephen King. I grew up reading his books and truly found my safe space and acceptance in his worlds while being absolutely terrified by them at the same time. I love his mind and I love his politics. He’s my hero.
Share a practical tip for a woman who wants to do what you do.
I’m always afraid to ask for help. And I’ve realized I’m surrounded by people who want to support me and who are excited by what I’m doing. So, remember your friends and your ‘people’ and don’t be afraid to ask for support, guidance, and help.
Inspire someone who is not where they want to be in the industry yet.
Try to be patient. Try to realize things take time. Give yourself moments to fail, breathe, and realize it can and will get better. Respect your ideas but know when to ask for guidance. And if you truly love your idea then bring it to life! Write that script, get some actors and filmmakers and make it happen.
Scare the crap out of us with something you have done or plan on doing!
I got to create a demon goddess for my short film Indolence. My husband created some amazing creepy fingernails and the makeup, dress, and hair was incredible!
What projects do you have coming up?
I have two short film screenplays that will be filming in the next two month. The first is a short film called “The Ebbing” about a missing child and the second is an adaptation of the Stephen King short story “Here There Be Tygers”. The short film is part of Stephen King’s DollarBaby program where filmmakers can apply to adapt one of his short stories. I’m very excited about “Here There Be Tygers” as I’m a life long Stephen King fan. I’m excited to bring a feminist twist to the story and I bet Mr. King will love it.
Check out this promotional art for some new projects!
