Treena Ringgold is the Director of Sozo Performing Arts Ministry and CEO and Founder of PlayLady Studios.
Her film Secrets in the Pulpit screens at the Churches Making Movies Christian Film Festival in Secaucus, New Jersey on Sunday October 15th at 11:30 am. Treena will be available for a questions after the screening. For tickets, visit, churchesmakingmovies.com
What is your film background?
Since about 2007, I have been writing gospel stage plays for my church. They became so popular over the years, that I felt an urging to write screenplays for movies. I do not have an extensive background when it comes to creating movies. Secrets in the Pulpit is actually my first one. It is an adaption from a play I wrote, Church House Monologues.
As a Christian, how do you see yourself impacting the film industry?
My slogan is "keeping the reel, real." I see myself as a game changer. I was marred in sin when I came to know the Lord and was often was made to feel like I had messed up so bad, that I could not be used of God. The stories I tell are messy, but it lets the audience know that no matter how low you get, God is always able to pick you up. This is the concept I want to convey in my films.
What was the biggest challenge you overcame to make your film?
Fear, support, and resources. Fear in the sense of, "what am I doing, what makes you think people will watch it? I had a small group of supporters and a small pot of resources. I wasn't sure how I could make a movie with what I had in my hand.
Who are your biggest influences in film and why?
Tyler Perry because of the wisdom he used to cut a door in Hollywood and The Kendrick Brothers for staying true to their mission and not letting anyone deter them.
What is the funniest or weirdest thing that has ever happened to you on set?
The funniest thing I had happen to me on set is the "attack of the mosquitos" We were shooting a scene at a campground and out of no where, we were attacked by mosquitos. When returned we were covered with head scarves, long pants, and shirts.
What is your favorite Bible verse? How does this influence your filmmaking?
Philippians 1:6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
It reminds me that Jesus is doing a work in me no matter how tempted I maybe to give up. When it comes to filmmaking, this scriptures helps me to know that no matter how hard or impossible it looks, God is still working and He will always bring it to pass.