Felicia Ann Mead

Hi! I’m Felicia Ann Mead, a horror filmmaker from Los Angeles. I grew up in South Central LA, my love for storytelling began early, thanks to my parents taking me to see The Exorcist at just two  years old. Throughout the 80s, they continued to introduce me to horror films.  As a child, I enjoyed telling spooky stories to my younger cousins, who often ended up scared and  sleeping with my grandparents! However, becoming a teen mom shifted my focus, and I lost my storytelling spark for a while. As my kids grew, I rediscovered my passion for horror storytelling.  After they graduated high school, I started my filmmaking journey with my first short, The Axe,  featuring family and friends. This experience ignited my desire to pursue filmmaking as a career.  I studied cinema and production at Los Angeles City College and multimedia at West Los Angeles  College. While in school, I created my first two films, The Little Girl and Emmanuel. Although I didn’t  finish film school initially, I returned later and graduated with honors, earning a kente cloth.  During my second time in school, I produced my first comedy horror film, The Overnight Stay,  featuring Melvin Jackson Jr., Malik Anthony, and Kami Tampa. It was selected for a film festival  called, indiewise and screened at AMC Adventure Mall in Florida. Since then, I’ve produced more independent short films, winning 29 film awards through my own fundraising efforts!

Screenwriter Interview:

1. How did you discover your passion for screen writing? 

 It all began with my parents, who introduced me to scary films when I was just 2 years old. As the  years passed, I found myself in my late twenties, inspired to write, direct, and produce my own short horror films. My first film was The Axe. There were numerous errors in my script, which prompted  me to enroll in film school to learn the craft of writing more effectively. 

2. Who has been your biggest influence in the movie industry? 

 Stephen King, I greatly admire his writing and his ability to direct Horror films. His dedication to  writing is incredibly inspiring to me, and I also respect the fact that he has been part of the film industry for a long time. Additionally, I appreciate his distinctive cameos in his movies as well. 

3. Who are two actors you would like to work with, why? 

 Will Smith is undoubtedly one of my favorite actors. He has a long history in blockbuster  Hollywood films, and his drive is relentless. He has been part of the entertainment industry since his teenage years and continues to thrive to this day. He is both humorous and highly entertaining. I appreciate that he can take on many different roles. 

 Pam Grier is undoubtedly one of the finest actresses in the industry; she played a significant role in revitalizing Hollywood films. While she is primarily recognized for her action movies from the 70s, I have also seen her excel in horror films. Her versatility in acting is remarkable. I've witnessed her performances in horror genres, and she has done an outstanding job portraying her characters, making them incredibly believable. Naturally, she is a Hollywood classic, and it's easy to see why I would want to work with her. 

4. How many screenplays or scripts have written and or have produced? List titles please. 

I have finished 10 short scripts, not counting my two feature scripts. I completed one feature that has won 5 awards and made it to 2 finals. I have also just wrapped up my second script, which is almost ready for the festival circuit. 

 In terms of turning my scripts into films, I have successfully made 11 short films so far. Of  course, this was with the assistance of my team members and my old professor, Brain Olson from West LA College who provided support. 

The Axe 

No Ones There 

The Little Girl 

Emmanuel  

In My BedRoom 

Blood In The Mirror 

The Over Night Stay 

The Lonely Man 

A Sort Of Hunger 

Perfect Ten  

Within Oneself

5. What are some pitfalls you've experienced in your career? 

 I encounter many disappointments, partly from financial issues and some from surrounding myself with individuals who do not share my vision. Moreover, I have faced multiple rejections from film festivals that have declined my films and scripts. Nonetheless, these experiences are just a part of life. 

6. What are your best experiences in your career? 

 One of my most memorable experiences was collaborating with Melvin Jackson Jr., known for his roles in The Wire and Everyone Hates Chris. Being part of my short film, The Overnight Stay, and working alongside him felt like a dream come true. Furthermore, I had the honor of working with J Anthony Brown, for whom I directed and produced a commercial promoting his hot sauce. I also had the chance to be featured in the Los Angeles  Sentinel newspapers. In addition, I was showcased in Skill magazine, which is based in New York City, and I had the opportunity to appear on Accelerated Radio Station on two occasions. These experiences have provided me with remarkable opportunities. Lastly, I was also highlighted in Inspiring Women Writers, which offered another excellent platform. 

7. Are you independent or do you have a contract with a movie producer? 

I am an independent Indie Filmmaker.  

8. What is your all time favorite movie or movies? Why? Would you change anything about the story  plot? 

 The Shinning by Stephen King, this film is phenomenal; the writing is incredible, and the choice of location—being trapped in an old hotel during winter—adds to its allure. The cinematography and camera angles are outstanding, creating an eerie atmosphere that enhances the spooky and unsettling feeling, leaving viewers uncertain about what will happen next. Additionally, the color palette, makeup, and overall tone of the film contribute significantly to its impact. I could easily watch this movie seven times in a single  day because of how incredible it is. 

Movie Trailer: