Ep 209: Conviction and Craft: Jia Rizvi on Documentary Filmmaking

Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Show Notes:

• Guest: Jia Wertz, Director of the Award-Winning Documentary Conviction and Journalist at Forbes
• Summary: In this episode, Damien Swaby sits down with Jia Wertz to discuss her transition from a successful career in corporate fashion to becoming a documentary filmmaker and journalist at Forbes. Jia shares the powerful influences that led her to this career shift, including the impact of Reuben Carter's story in The 16th Round and the Serial podcast. We explore her filmmaking process, the challenges she faced while creating Conviction, and how her work is raising awareness about wrongful convictions. Jia also talks about her experience at the New York Film Academy and her thoughts on the importance of small, intimate film crews when dealing with sensitive topics.
• Educational Value:
  • Filmmaking Process: Learn about the technical and creative aspects of documentary filmmaking, from initial concept to final cut.
  • Storytelling for Social Change: Understand how storytelling can be used as a powerful tool to highlight social issues, particularly within the justice system.
  • Navigating Career Transitions: Gain insights into making a significant career shift and how to leverage past experiences in a new field.
  • Working with Sensitive Topics: Discover the ethical considerations and emotional challenges of working on films that address deeply personal and sensitive issues.
  • The Importance of Intimate Film Crews: Explore why small, focused teams can be crucial when dealing with vulnerable subjects and the nuances of their stories.
• Topics Covered:
  • Early influences and inspiration from wrongful conviction stories.
  • Transitioning from corporate fashion to filmmaking.
  • The making of Conviction and its impact.
  • Technical and emotional challenges in documentary filmmaking.
  • The importance of storytelling in raising awareness.
  • Future projects and the ongoing fight for justice.
• Links:
  
  • W:https://www.jiarizvi.com/