Meet Ann Allsopp | Writer & Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ann Allsopp and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ann, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
I can’t think of anything better than getting to collaborate with other creatives to tell a story. There’s a kind of magic that happens when a bunch of weirdos get together, share a vision, and make something. Being on the set of my most recent film, Heartless, was one of the most magical experiences of my life.

I’m obsessed with stories in general, whether I’m writing, directing, or just chatting with a stranger at the airport. I’m happiest when I’m learning new things, hearing new perspectives, experiencing new places–essentially, getting a wider view of the world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I love writing and directing offbeat films that lean toward comedy or horror with a bit of social commentary on top. My most recent film, Heartless, is fundamentally about finding connection in a world that often feels chaotic and absurd. I believe that’s what art does for us–it creates a space for us to feel seen and find connection, despite living in a time and culture that can make us feel crazy and alone. So I’m incredibly grateful to be able to make films and share them with people who just might be feeling the same way.

I found my way to film in a roundabout way. I started my career in advertising and technical writing, but I was always writing stories on the side. I realized I was searching for a more collaborative creative outlet, so I found my way to screenwriting and then to Colorado Film School, where I got hooked on directing as well. I’ve since gotten to work on everything from reality shows to commercials to music videos to feature films.

If I could condense what I’ve learned so far into two pieces of advice, they would be: 1) be patient, and 2) remember this is a team sport. Filmmaking is hard, and you’re constantly learning and making things that don’t quite live up to your expectations. I’m a perfectionist, and I’m still trying to make peace with the fact that I may never write the perfect script or make the perfect film. But you have to keep pushing and keep making things to get better. And if you want to keep making things, you have to build a community of good people around you, and treat those people well. If you focus on building relationships, even the hardest days on set don’t feel so bad.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If the weather’s nice, we could go for a bike ride along the Platte River Trail to Hudson Gardens (and grab a coffee at Nixon’s while we’re at it). Or we could wander around RiNo to take in the street art, grab a drink at Mockingbird, and play some pool at Gerard’s. Drag Queen Bingo Brunch at Milk Market is always a good time. Arvada Tavern is one of my go-to spots for cocktails and good vibes (and if you go through the phone booth, you can find swing dancing and live music upstairs). And Red Rocks is a must, for a hike or a concert (or both!).

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Oh, man, this list could get very long! I have a community of teachers, writers, artists, and collaborators who have given me so much. Kyle Steinbrinck, Ashley St. Sauveur, Will Hicks, Grant Hughes, Galina Boulgakova, Twitch Collins, and the rest of the Colorado Film School faculty and staff supported my projects and helped me learn the craft. Denver Film, WIFMCO, CFVA, and FIND have all provided resources and community along the way.

My husband, Robby, encouraged me to make the leap to film when I was terrified of another career change, and he’s been my rock through film school and all the ups and downs of filmmaking. My whole family has been so encouraging and supportive, even when it meant we couldn’t see each other as much as we’d like to.

Filmmaking is a community effort in every sense, and I could not have made Heartless without the many kind and talented people who donated their time, energy, money, and spaces to make it happen. I still can’t believe I got to work with such a brilliant cast: Tara Falk, Laura Lounge, Mitch Marquez, Gareth Saxe, Mark Canjar, Phyllis Ramie, Rich Alpers, Savannah Vedovatti, Tara Jade Fox, and more! They gave the film its heart and soul, and I’m a better director for having worked with them.

Jason Strong and Haleigh Burckley are not only the best producers a girl could ask for but also incredible humans and friends who kept me sane throughout the whole process. My executive producer, Christie Dorough, helped us raise the funds we needed and kept us fed and happy. My director of photography, Lucas Lacy, was an amazing collaborator and brought his keen creative eye to the film.

Dr. Barbara Seidl generously let us take over her gorgeous home. Dr. Joseph and Dr. Kristin Hoffman-Singh at Meridian Health Center allowed us to film in their office last-minute when another location fell through. Heroes!

And to everyone who has contributed to the project or even just listened to me laugh or cry about the process: thank you, I love you. Indie filmmaking isn’t for the faint of heart, and you all keep my heart from fainting.

Website: https://www.psychopomppictures.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annallsopp/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annallsopp/

Image Credits
Justin Olivas and Dailyn Souder