Ava DuVernay: A-list auteur, voice of the underrepresented

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As a movie lover and someone deeply inspired by the stories of trailblazing filmmakers, I am in awe of Ava DuVernay’s remarkable journey and her unwavering commitment to creating an institution that amplifies underrepresented voices in Hollywood.

Afternoon at Ava DuVernay’s large, 14,000-square-foot office in Historic Filipinotown is filled with energy and activity: Team members from Ava’s arts and social impact organization Array, nominated for Oscars, gather in cheerful nooks discussing projects on production, distribution, education, and public programming; guests traverse a sunlit courtyard to buildings housing writers rooms, pre-production spaces, editing suites, and Array’s nonprofit endeavors; and DuVernay moves between the 50-seat Amanda Cinema and her postproduction team, fine-tuning her ambitious drama “Origin,” a notable addition to her already impressive filmography.

As a devoted fan, I’d put it this way: Instead of solely focusing on making her next movie like many directors do, DuVernay, at 51 years old, is striving for something more significant. She’s constructing an institution, fostering a community, and paving the way for underrepresented voices to thrive – all while climbing the esteemed ranks of Hollywood’s elite filmmakers.

Raised in Lynwood and born in Long Beach, the acclaimed writer, director, producer (of “Selma,” “13th,” “When They See Us” and an Oprah Winfrey friend) Ava DuVernay has made waves in Hollywood by setting an example as a trailblazer. In 2016, she championed gender equality in her series “Queen Sugar” by hiring only female directors, paving the way for significant change without leaving room for excuses. By 2018, DuVernay became the first woman of color to helm a $100-million live-action film with “A Wrinkle in Time.” The Array Crew, established to bridge the gap between underrepresented below-the-line talent and entertainment industry jobs, is now the most extensive hiring resource in Hollywood.

As a passionate cinema enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for meaningful initiatives in the film industry. And when it comes to Array, led by the visionary Ava DuVernay, they truly stand out. We, the dedicated followers of Array, have been working together towards various projects that aim to make a difference.

As a passionate cinephile, I found myself longing for a sanctuary where I could feel secure. For me, security is closely tied to being part of a community. That’s the driving force behind my creative endeavors – from bringing underrepresented stories to life on the big screen, to fostering meaningful conversations that ensue.

“Tammy Garnes, Array’s education division vice president, who is a crucial part of the company according to DuVernay, expressed that ‘the impact of the work lives beyond the film.’ This is how art continues to thrive even after its creators have passed on.”

As a movie buff and aspiring organization leader, I aim to build an enduring legacy beyond my own existence. When I reflect upon established organizations that persist past their founders’ tenure, that is my ultimate ambition. If someday I am no longer here, I would cherish the thought that Array or its core values, or perhaps a project initiated by Array, would continue to thrive and make an impact.

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2024-07-18 22:45