Industry Advice and Media Analysis Articles
Our editorial pieces are all written by female and GNC filmmakers, providing perspectives that aren’t often featured on typical film websites. From help guides, an advice column, to think pieces, these contributors each utilize media to make connections to their identities and lives in unique ways. To pitch to The Light Leaks, go to this link.
On Screen: Watching Encanto as a Colombian American
Filmmaker and TLL founder, Kim Hoyos shares how she felt watching Disney’s Encanto as a Colombian American. As a daughter of immigrants and a creator, she writes about the film’s authentic moments and thoughts on the animation industry’s potential for diversity.
On Screen: What Does ‘Promising Young Woman’ Really Promise?
Sophie Hayssen explores ‘Promising Young Woman’ through the lens of justice for victims and survivors of sexual assault and abuse and where the film connected and disconnected with these real-world issues.
AAPI Creators In Hollywood That You Need to Know
Whether it’s in directing for television, film or branded content — or even writing for your favorite tv show, these Asian American and Pacific Islander creators are making a splash on screen with their artistic vision! Read on to learn about Amina Munir, Emily Ting, Christina Xing, Karen Chee, Diane Paragas and Ravenna Tran.
Golden Globes History: Race and Gender Across the Years
The Light Leak is all about sharing information, inspiring, and supporting women and nonbinary filmmakers. So we took a critical look at how the Golden Globes has amplified (or not) the voices of women and BIPOC communities.
Free PDFs and Resources on Screenwriting, Film Production, and More
We created this master list of free PDFs for download because one major barrier, especially for students, women, BIPOC, and people living with a disability, is the financial barrier of higher education dedicated to film and tv. Education should be accessible. This list will be updated as more books are found and if a link is broken please feel free to reach out to us at kim@thelightleaks.com)
The Second Life of Desert Hearts and the Difficulty of Telling Queer Women’s Stories
Queer films are overwhelmingly male- both behind the camera and on screen. Queer film criticism writer Ryan Coleman breaks down the historical importance of female directed and female focused Desert Hearts and its’ influence on Queer cinema.
The Hustle: Ten Things No One Tells You About Making Your First Short Film
Branded video director extraordinaire Blair Waters is used to challenges. But learning how to shoot her first short film came with it’s own unique struggles. In this edition of “The Hustle” she shares with us the 10 things to keep top of mind when shooting a short film.
"Ladybird," Creativity, And The Magic Of Going Home
Filmmaker Danielle Acton recounts her own coming of age in Sacramento, the process of homecoming and her connection to “Ladybird.”
Special Affects: Social Responsibility In Film
Interested in human rights and film production, Lauren Cooke explains the importance of social responsibility in media.
Rogue One: Wearing Pants And Taking Names
Actress and writer, Celine Dirkes unravels gender in science fiction films.